Summus Horizon Class 4 Laser at Pure Relief Chiropractic
What is the difference between a cold laser and a class 4 laser?
Class 4 lasers and “cold lasers” are different in terms of their power output, purpose, and how they interact with tissues.
Class 4 Laser:
Class 4 lasers, as high-power lasers, are sometimes used in medical applications, particularly in certain therapeutic procedures and medical interventions. The medical use of Class 4 lasers involves their ability to deliver controlled and focused laser energy to specific tissues for various purposes. Some common medical uses of Class 4 lasers include:
Class 4 lasers are employed in laser surgery, where the high power and precision of the laser beam can cut or vaporize tissue. This is often used in ophthalmology for procedures like LASIK eye surgery, as well as in other surgical disciplines for soft tissue cutting.
In dermatology, Class 4 lasers are used for procedures like laser skin resurfacing, tattoo removal, hair removal, and treatment of various skin conditions. The laser’s high power allows for efficient and precise removal or alteration of skin tissue.
Some Class 4 lasers are used for pain management and physical therapy. They can penetrate deeper into tissues and stimulate cellular processes, potentially promoting tissue healing and reducing inflammation, which can help alleviate pain. This is often referred to as High-Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT) or High-Power Laser Therapy.
Class 4 lasers can be employed to facilitate wound healing by promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation at the wound site. This is particularly useful in the treatment of chronic wounds, burns, and various types of ulcers.
In orthopedics, Class 4 lasers may be used for the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. The laser’s energy can help reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms in conditions like arthritis, tendinitis, and sports injuries.
Class 4 lasers are used in dentistry for procedures such as cavity preparation, tissue ablation, and teeth whitening.
Veterinarians may use Class 4 lasers for similar medical applications in animals, including pain management, wound healing, and surgical procedures.
The choice of using a Class 4 laser in a medical setting depends on the specific procedure and the benefits it offers in terms of precision, efficiency, and tissue interaction. Medical professionals typically evaluate the potential risks and benefits before using Class 4 lasers for a given medical application.
Cold Laser (Low-Level Laser Therapy or LLLT):
Cold lasers, also known as low-level lasers or LLLT, are low-power lasers used for therapeutic and medical purposes. These lasers have much lower power outputs, typically in the range of 1 to 500 milliwatts, and they are often referred to as “cold” because they do not generate significant heat during operation. LLLT devices are used to stimulate tissue healing, reduce pain and inflammation, and promote various physiological responses in the body.
LLLT is believed to work by stimulating cellular processes through a process known as photobiomodulation. The low-level laser energy is thought to promote the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and stimulate cellular repair and growth.
Cold lasers are used in a variety of medical and therapeutic applications, including pain management, wound healing, physical therapy, and dermatology. They are generally considered safe when used by trained professionals as they do not cause tissue damage or pose the same hazards as Class 4 lasers.
The Key Differences
In summary, the key differences between Class 4 lasers and cold lasers (LLLT) are their power levels and intended use. Class 4 lasers are high-power lasers used for cutting, welding, and other industrial or medical applications where safety precautions are crucial due to their potential to cause harm. Cold lasers, on the other hand, are low-power lasers used for therapeutic and medical purposes to stimulate healing and reduce pain without causing tissue damage or posing significant safety risks when used appropriately.
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