ABSTRACT
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been used to treat a wide
spectrum of painful clinical conditions commencing within a decade
of its production by Maiman in 1960 (Maiman, 1960). Initially,
clinical use outstripped an understanding of the mechanisms
for its effects. Further confusion arose with the concurrent use
of laser in acupuncture, a different paradigm. Over subsequent
decades, as research focused on understanding the direct effects
of light on tissue, several mechanisms underlying LLLT analgesia
were proposed (Belkin et al., 1988; Navratil and Dylevsky, 1997;
Schindl et al., 2000). These include anti-inflammatory effects,
neural blockade, stimulation of lymphatic activity, tissue repair,
and reduction of muscle spasm. Each of these mechanisms has
been studied from subcellular levels through to clinical applications.
Translating and applying knowledge of these multiple mechanisms
from the laboratory to clinical practice are critical to successful
outcomes with LLLT. This chapter will outline the painful conditions
in which LLLT is used and mechanisms for its effects and address
practical considerations.
