Handheld Cold Laser Device – Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do cold laser therapy devices (low laser light therapy), work?

Cold laser therapy devices can promote tissue regeneration, wound healing and muscle recovery; reduce inflammation and relieve pain; and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels. LLLT is used in injury rehabilitation – and specifically for joint damage – due to its anti-inflammatory and pain relief properties.

LLLT is thought to work when the light an LLLT device emits passes through the skin into the body, where it stimulates the energy and respiration centers of cells – mitochondria – resulting in greater cell energy, communication, nutrition, growth and life.

LLLT is used to reduce inflammation, the most common cause of musculoskeletal pain. Research has shown that it reduces the cells and enzymes responsible for causing inflammation and increases antioxidant and anti-inflammatory enzymes.

2. What is the depth of penetration of each of the laser beams?

The LLLT has two beams, each with a different penetration depth. The 808 nanometer laser beam can penetrate 4 to 6 centimeters. The 650 nanometer laser beam can penetrate about 2 to 3 centimeters. The cold laser therapy device covers a surface area of up to 4.5 square centimeters. The two beams operate simultaneously to reach therapeutic depths for a variety of conditions.

3. Is there any formal training required to operate this particular cold laser?

This LLLT is a class 3B laser. It does not require formal training as a class 4 laser does. There are, however, instructional articles and videos online.

4. Do cold laser therapy devices work on humans also?

They can be used on equines, humans, pets, etc. Although you feel the laser device touching the skin during treatment, the procedure is painless and noninvasive with no sound, vibration or heat.

5. Will this help heal large, open wounds?

Cold laser therapy devices improve the microcirculation and metabolism in the treatment area, increasing blood supply to the injured tissues. In addition, the cold laser device further promotes wound healing by increasing the tensile strength of tissue.

6. How long are treatment sessions, how frequently must they be done and for how long?

The treatment protocol depends on what type of condition is being treated. For instance, we had a client who was treating a large pectoral wound on an equine. She used this unit once a day, for 15 minutes each, for 14 days, at full strength. It is usually left in one spot for 60 to 90 seconds at a time.

The basic manual that comes with the handheld cold laser gives you instruction on basic treatment times and strengths

7. Is this a true 3B laser?

Yes, this device is a true laser. Specifications of this unit:

LASER TYPE: Class 3B Cold Laser

PENETRATION: 808nm laser beams can penetrate to 4-6cm depth roughly. 650nm laser beams reach about 2-3cm depth.

MAXIMUM OUTPUT: 800mW - 150mW each 808nm laser diode and 5mW each 650nm laser diode

8. How does LLLT compare to PEMF?

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy and Low Light (cold) Laser Therapy are two different types of therapies for different conditions. Lasers are better suited for targeting specific areas of the body like injuries and acupressure points while PEMF is more of a whole-body therapy. Cold laser therapy has pain relief effects not found with PEMF and is superior for the treatment of both acute injuries and chronic pain.

9. Can the glass on the device be replaced if it cracks?

Yes. Brandenburg Equine offers replacement lens covers if you purchased from us.

10. How would a cold laser help relieve a horse’s back pain?

Cold lasers reduce inflammation and the pain associated with it.

11. My 8-year-old rescue horse suffered an injury when she was about three years old. She got her foot stuck in a wire and nearly cut it off at the cornet. She has a very bad, thick scar that runs from one side of the back of her foot to the other. It is thick, hard and pokes into the bend of her foot about two inches below her fetlock, causing problems when she trots. Would cold laser therapy help?’

The laser would help reduce inflammation, therefore reducing her pain.

12. Would a cold laser therapy device be a beneficial addition to an equine massage practice?

Yes, they certainly can be. Do your research and decide if a cold laser therapy device is right for you to add to your practice.

13. Will this help a horse with arthritis?

Yes. LLLT can work on acupressure points and joints, reducing inflammation and pain.

14. For what types of conditions should cold lasers not be used?

Cold lasers, or LLLT, are not recommended for cancerous areas or where cancer was removed. Like any other equipment, LLLT should never be used to treat eyes unless it is being done so by a veterinarian with proper training, as it is very easy to do more damage. It is NOT recommend for use if pregnant. Never use LLLT near the thyroid.

15. What about laser safety?

While it’s not required for class 3 lasers, it is recommended that you wear Safety Glasses approved for the 800nm-1100nm range. Safety glasses rated in this range can be found at various stores online. Make sure you are purchasing certified/approved safety glasses.

No matter what class laser, even pointer pen lasers - NEVER look directly into any laser, point it at or near human or animals eyes.