Laser therapy is a versatile and drug-free treatment that has helped improve the health and well-being of patients worldwide. This treatment has also helped improve the care that practitioners deliver to their patients. Depending on your goals as a patient or a practitioner, though, laser therapy can have some drawbacks. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce any disadvantages that laser therapy may present. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of laser therapy can help you determine if this treatment is right for you.
Also known as photobiomodulation, laser therapy uses various wavelengths of light to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Specific wavelengths provide different health benefits. Laser therapy using 810nm wavelengths helps muscles and tendons regenerate, for example, while treatments using 980 nm wavelengths ease pain, improve circulation, and promote muscle relaxation. Laser therapy using 1064nm wavelengths penetrates tissue deep inside the body to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve blood flow.
Advantages of Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a versatile and drug-free treatment, but depending on your goals as a patient or a practitioner, it can have some drawbacks. This blog will cover the advantages and disadvantages of laser therapy and offer solutions/silver linings of disadvantages.
A drug-free approach to treatment
One of the best advantages of laser therapy is that it is drug-free. Patients do not have to worry about getting a prescription, buying expensive medication, or the risk of drug interactions. Laser therapy does not present the risk of addiction or overdoses like opioids or other painkillers.
Pain-free treatments
Some patients avoid getting treatment for health issues because they are worried about the discomfort therapy may cause. Laser therapy is pain-free and comfortable — many patients find laser therapy relaxing.
Versatility
Laser therapy effectively treats many common physical concerns, such as:
- Muscle spasms and strains
- Arthritis
- Bursitis
- Tendonitis
- Ligament sprains
- Neuropathy
- Neck pain
- Lower back pain
- Knee pain
This versatility means practitioners can treat multiple conditions with just one device, which means clinics can treat more patients while saving money and space.
Customizable
The highest quality laser therapy devices have adjustable power output and multiple wavelengths, allowing practitioners to customize treatments to fit each patient’s needs.
May be combined with other treatments
Since laser therapy is drug-free, it may be combined with other treatments, such as physical therapy, surgery, injections, or prescription medications. Many practitioners find that combining laser therapy with other treatments works better than offering just one mode of treatment.
Long-lasting results
Because laser therapy addresses the underlying problem rather than merely masking symptoms, photobiomodulation therapy can provide long-lasting results.
Ongoing research
Since its discovery in the 1960s, scientists have performed countless studies to investigate laser therapy’s effects and discover new uses. As laser therapy becomes more popular among practitioners and patients, researchers continue to explore new applications for this state-of-the-art technology.
Disadvantages of Laser Therapy
Expense
Some practitioners may find it expensive to purchase laser therapy devices. This may be especially true for newly-opened offices or clinics with a limited investment budget. However, investing in laser therapy technology can pay off because offering the technology can attract more clients and help your practice grow.
Practices can save money through tax credits and the Aspen Laser warranty.
Insurance coverage
Some insurance policies may not cover laser therapy. This may pose a problem for clinics accustomed to billing insurance providers for all procedures.
To overcome this, practices can offer laser therapy as a cash service. While it can be challenging for some practices to make the change, offering cash services can benefit both clinics and their patients. Many clinics appreciate the instant payment of a cash service rather than filling out insurance paperwork and waiting for weeks or months to receive compensation. Cash services can also draw uninsured patients who may not otherwise receive the treatment they need.
Safety protocol
While laser therapy is safe, practitioners must still undergo the necessary training to operate laser therapy devices. This training helps them understand how the various wavelengths affect patients’ bodies and how to use the laser therapy devices safely.
If you need training, consider attending one of our comprehensive laser therapy seminars. Our Learn & Discover in-person seminars are happening in several locations around the country and offer you the chance to learn, explore, and grow as a laser therapy provider.
