Laser Therapy (Class III / Class IV)

Class III and Class IV Laser Therapy at Spine Plus

Our clinics in Chigwell, Woodford and Gidea Park are equipped with Class III and Class IV laser therapy machines. Class III laser (below 500mW power output) is sometimes referred to as "cold laser" or "low level light therapy" (LLLT). Class IV laser (over 500mW) is also known as "high intensity light therapy" (HILT).

These machines use laser light of specific wavelengths to increase "oxygen dumping" (uptake of oxygen from the bloodstream to damaged cells) and to stimulate certain enzymes in injured cells involved with energy production and healing. This results in improved recovery time and quality from acute injuries, particularly muscle tissue.

Our laser machines can also be used for laser acupuncture as an alternative to traditional acupuncture needles. Recent studies have also demonstrated how laser therapy can enhance the effects of shockwave therapy for tendon injuries and tendonitis.

About Our Equipment

Before choosing which laser machines to invest in, we trialled and researched many different types from different manufacturers. We settled on machines (by MLS and Omega) that had excellent safety ratings and treatment parameters.

Our laser machines offer multiple wavelengths (905nm, 800nm and others) and power ratings that match the medical research demonstrating the clinical effectiveness of laser therapy. We selected machines that do not risk overheating, while delivering sufficient power at a suitable pulse to allow clinically effective treatment doses to be delivered quickly within standard appointment times and, where appropriate, alongside other modalities such as ultrasound, shockwave or massage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Laser Therapy Safe?

Yes. Low level light laser is one of the safest treatment modalities available.

Has the Effectiveness of Laser Been Scientifically Proven?

Yes. There have been more than 2,000 studies published showing the clinical effectiveness of laser therapy, including more than one hundred rigorously controlled trials. Study findings include:

• 70% reduction in acute pain
• 60% reduction in chronic pain
• Effective in 71% of cases of chronic low back pain
• Wound healing 55% greater on day 8 compared to placebo (post-operative and diabetic ulcers)
• Improved movement and sensitivity to pressure after each treatment in cases of knee injury

Is Laser Therapy Painful?

No. The machines we use are not painful in any way.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

Usually between 3 and 9 sessions.

What Conditions Respond to Laser Therapy?

Laser works best for relatively superficial complaints in highly vascularised tissue (tissue with a good blood supply). Common conditions we treat with laser include:

• Post-operative wounds
• Diabetic skin ulcers
• Grade 1 and Grade 2 muscle tears
• Muscle strains
• Tendon and ligament injuries including plantar fasciitis, rotator cuff damage, and tennis elbow (often combined with ultrasound or shockwave therapy)

Laser Available at These Clinics

• Spine Plus Chigwell, 2a Oak Lodge Ave, Chigwell, Essex, IG7 5HZ
• Spine Plus Woodford, 5 Jubilee Market, St Barnabas Rd, Woodford Green, IG8 7BY
• Spine Plus Gidea Park, 587 Upper Brentwood Road, Romford, RM2 6LH