Shoulder pain can be triggered by various factors, including sudden injuries, tendon inflammation, bursitis, arthritis, or by reaching too high for something in the kitchen. Due to the shoulder's extensive range of motion and interconnecting structure, the shoulder joint is particularly susceptible to injury. Irrespective of the reason—be it overuse, injuries, or existing medical conditions—shoulder pain can significantly impede daily tasks, from basic actions like reaching overhead to more intricate movements such as lifting and transporting items.
Luckily, there have been recent advances in a non-invasive therapeutic option for relief. Laser light therapy accelerates the healing process and alleviates discomfort by triggering a sequence of physiological responses when specific light wavelengths are aimed at the injured area. The precision and efficiency of laser therapy make it a promising avenue for those seeking a non-invasive yet potent solution to their health concerns. Across the board, it is seen that laser light therapy is strongly suggested for pain relief and moderately suggested for improving function, achieved by the following actions:¹
Cells experience a surge in energy/ATP levels
Enhanced cellular repair and faster regeneration
Release of nitric oxide occurs
Improved blood circulation
Boost in collagen production
Activation of stem cells
Image 1: Laser light therapy in action at Chromatic Wellness Center Laser light therapy is a popular choice for alleviating shoulder discomfort due to its safety, effectiveness, and adaptability. Unlike traditional pain management methods such as medication or surgery, laser treatment offers a holistic, non-pharmacological approach to easing shoulder pain. Studies have demonstrated the benefits of laser light therapy in addressing various shoulder issues like osteoarthritis, frozen shoulder, and rotator cuff injuries, leading to pain reduction and enhanced range of motion for patients.
There are four clinical targets for laser light therapy:
The site of injury to promote healing, remodeling and reduce inflammation.
Lymph nodes to reduce edema and inflammation.
Nerves to induce analgesia.
Trigger points to reduce tenderness and relax contracted muscle fibers.
Due to the wide spectrum of targets and conditions that can be treated, it is seen that multiple mechanisms operate in conjunction to achieve pain relief, where neural networks and intracellular mechanisms hold high responsibility. ²
Moreover, it is important to understand that this type of therapy is individualized. We can compare laser light therapy to having your neural networks and connective tissues do strength exercising at an internal gym. Results from exercise vary from person to person- they may not be immediate, in fact some achiness may occur. Multiple studies have been done to track progress of relief, and it has been commonly found that some individuals do not experience significant pain reduction until followups up to 3 weeks after treatment, but some can experience relief immediately.
One of the key advantages of laser light therapy is its ability to provide pain relief and enhance range of motion simultaneously. This dual benefit can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from shoulder pain, enabling them to engage in daily activities with greater ease and comfort. Discover the benefits today with a free consultation to determine if you may be a candidate for this treatment.
Resources
1 Cheng K, Martin LF, Slepian MJ, Patwardhan AM, Ibrahim MM. Mechanisms and Pathways of Pain Photobiomodulation: A Narrative Review. J Pain. 2021 Jul;22(7):763-777 2 Cotler HB, Chow RT, Hamblin MR, Carroll J. The Use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) For Musculoskeletal Pain. MOJ Orthop Rheumatol. 2015;2(5):00068 3 Tsagkaris C, Papazoglou AS, Eleftheriades A, et al. Infrared Radiation in the Management of Musculoskeletal Conditions and Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ. 2022 Mar 14;12(3):334-343
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