FAQ

Are there differences in effect between high-power lasers and low-level lasers?

Yes, there are significant differences in effect between high-power lasers and low-level lasers, often referred to as “cold” lasers. They are used for different purposes in clinical settings due to their different mechanisms of action.

High-power lasers are primarily used for their thermal effects and ability to ablate tissue. They have been employed in a variety of medical procedures, including dermatological procedures like the removal of birthmarks, skin resurfacing, and tattoo removal [1]. In ophthalmology, high-power lasers are used in refractive surgery and in the treatment of certain retinal conditions [2]. In oncology, they can be used to destroy tumors [3].

On the other hand, Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or “cold” lasers produce a photochemical effect rather than a thermal one. They stimulate cells to increase their activity and promote healing at a cellular level without causing a noticeable increase in tissue temperature or damaging tissues. LLLT has been demonstrated to be effective in pain management, wound healing, and treating musculoskeletal conditions [4,5,6].

Therefore, the primary differences between high-power lasers and low-level lasers lie in their intensity, the thermal effects they produce, and the conditions they are used to treat.

References

1. Soleymani T, Abrouk M, Kelly KM. An analysis of laser therapy for the treatment of nonmelanoma skin cancer. Dermatol Surg. 2017;43(5):615-624.
2. Kanellopoulos AJ, Asimellis G. Refractive and keratometric stability in high myopic LASIK with high-frequency femtosecond and excimer lasers. J Refract Surg. 2013;29(12):832-837.
3. Moghissi K, Dixon K. Laser therapy of bronchial carcinoma: results of treating 1123 patients. Thorax. 1992;47(10):775-780.
4. Hashmi JT, Huang YY, Osmani BZ, Sharma SK, Naeser MA, Hamblin MR. Role of low-level laser therapy in neurorehabilitation. PM R. 2010;2(12 Suppl 2):S292-S305.
5. Tchanque-Fossuo CN, Ho D, Dahle SE, et al. A systematic review of low-level light therapy for treatment of diabetic foot ulcer. Wound Repair Regen. 2016;24(2):418-26.
6. Bjordal JM, Couppé C, Chow RT, Tunér J, Ljunggren EA. A systematic review of low level laser therapy with location-specific doses for pain from chronic joint disorders. Aust J Physiother. 2003;49(2):107-16.

What are the differences between red and infrared lasers in PBM therapy?

Red lasers (typically between 630-660 nm) are optimal for
promoting skin healing, wound repair, and reducing pain and inflammation.

Infrared lasers (ranging from 780-880 nm) penetrate deeper into tissues, making them ideal for treating muscles, joints, and nerve injuries.

Combining red and infrared lasers can provide optimum therapeutic outcomes by addressing both superficial and deep tissue conditions.

How long does it take to achieve the optimal energy levels using different laser power outputs?

The time required to reach the optimal energy levels varies depending on the power output of the device. For a 10 mW device, it takes approximately 200 minutes to deliver 120 Joules and 270 minutes to deliver 162 Joules. For a 100 mW device, it takes about 20 minutes for 120 Joules and 27 minutes for 162 Joules. For a 1000 mW device, it takes only 2 minutes to deliver 120 Joules and 2.7 minutes for 162 Joules.

Can this laser harm me?

With responsible use (i.e., not pointing the beam directly into the eye), the level of light energy emitted from the LZ30 family of lasers is not sufficient to damage human cells. Normally functioning cells do not respond to the laser light of your LZ30 Laser. This is a general rule but there may be exceptions. Common Sense is important in laser therapy. If a treatment creates undue discomfort from heat or light sensitivity, lower the treatment time, move the laser to a different location on the body or cease the treatment altogether.

When should I use the laser in Infrared mode?

Infrared (IR) mode is used for a therapeutic tissue response. Therapy will address the reduction in symptoms such as pain and inflammation. The light will be absorbed deeper in the tissue than the Red (R) light mode. When using the laser in IR, which is invisible to the human eye, a red tracer beam has been added to avoid accidental eye exposure.

When should I use the laser in Red mode?

Red (R) mode is used for a rehabilitative tissue response. The cells in our bodies have been shown to communicate in the red light wavelength, which is one of the wavelengths the LZ30 operates at. In this mode, the laser is used to “normalize” cellular function. If the target tissue is not functioning normally (i.e., tight muscles), the application of the laser in Red mode will help to normalize the target tissue.

How do I switch between Red and Infrared modes?

When turning the beam on, the laser will always start in Red mode unless the desired preset is only available in Infrared mode. With the beam on, click once in the Up direction to toggle from Red to Infrared. The display will show the “R” icon has switched to “IR”. The laser is now in Infrared mode. To change back to Red mode, click once in the Down direction. The display will change from “IR” to “R”.

Do I have to hold the laser in one spot or can I wave it over the entire area?

It is a matter of personal preference, but there are distinct advantages of holding the laser in one spot as opposed to “painting” or “scanning” the area. The laser should be against the skin when possible. Doing so will increase the dose of light entering the target tissue. The further away the laser is away from the skin, the greater the area that is exposed, but at the cost of a decreased concentration of light at the desired treatment point. It is not advised to contact the skin if there is a condition present that precludes you from touching the skin with the laser (i.e., shingles, open wounds, etc.).

Another advantage is that you will experience less muscle fatigue from supporting the laser with your arm instead of resting it on the body part to be treated.

How long should I laser an area?

If the goal is to reduce pain or inflammation, it is suggested that the first treatment should be approximately two minutes per area. If there is no reduction in pain, add a minute or two the second treatment. Increase until there is a reduction in pain. Usually, 2-7 minutes is the range of effectiveness, but results may vary depending on the skin pigmentation and body size.

How often should I treat the same person using my laser?

Higher doses are more effective, for most applications. If time permits, you can treat every day. Since the effects of laser therapy on tissue often depend on subsequent treatments, it is recommended that treatments are once a day to every other day.

What is Photobiomodulation (PBM) and how does it work?

Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level light therapy
(LLLT), involves the application of light (commonly in the red and infrared spectrum) to stimulate biological processes. It enhances ATP production, reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, alleviates pain, and promotes tissue repair. PBM is effective in treating a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, myofascial pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and more.

What are the optimal parameters for using lasers in pain relief?

According to a recent meta-analysis, the total energy delivered is
the most critical parameter for effective laser photobiomodulation in pain relief. The optimal total energy range for achieving positive outcomes is between 120 and 162 Joules. Other important parameters include energy density and duration of treatment. Higher power devices (1000 mW) are generally more effective as they can deliver the required energy levels in shorter treatment times.

What types of conditions can be effectively treated with laser photobiomodulation (PBM)?

PBM can effectively treat a wide range of painful conditions
including chronic pain such as myofascial pain, rheumatoid arthritis, neck pain, ankle sprain, knee osteoarthritis, low back pain, plantar fasciitis, frozen shoulder, Achilles tendinopathy, and carpal tunnel syndrome. It is also beneficial for pain management in oral surgery, orthodontics, and conditions like fibromyalgia, oral mucositis in cancer patients, burning mouth syndrome, temporomandibular joint disorders, and tonsillectomy pain.

What are the contraindications for laser therapy?

Most importantly, never aim the beam directly into the eye. This can permanently damage the retina, which is the most sensitive part of the body. It is also unwise to laser any cancerous, precancerous or suspected cancerous tissue. Research has demonstrated that laser light may promote the growth of certain cancer cells.

Other considerations include treating directly over a fetus, the thyroid or reproductive organs. No evidence has been found in published research to demonstrate a risk of adverse effects, but prudence should be observed when treating near these areas.

Laser treatment over tattoos is also contraindicated, as the laser light can damage the surrounding tissue due to heal build-up in the tattoo ink pigments.

How do I pin a preset to my Favorites menu?

Power up the laser. Enter the Advanced Settings mode by entering the password as 4 clicks to the left (←←←←). Navigate to the Presets menu as shown in the Navigation Map below. Once the desired preset is found, click to the Right and HOLD until the message “Pin to Fav” appears. Click the center button. The message “Are You Sure?” will appear. Click once in the UP direction to change the “No” to “Yes”. Click the center button. The message “Pinned” will appear. The preset can now be found in the Favorites menu. Unpinning a preset is done in the same manner, either from the Favorites menu o r from the Presets menu.

When should I charge my laser?

The battery inside the laser is lithium ion and has circuitry to protect itself during charging. It is suggested that the laser be charged overnight when the battery reaches approximately 50%, so usage is not interrupted due to insufficient charge in the battery to operate the device, but this is not mandatory for usage. When the battery reaches 30% capacity, and again at 10%, the laser will give a sound and visual warning. It is not recommended to operate the laser when it is connected to the charger.

What are the plastic covers that were included with my laser?

Your laser was shipped with one black hood cover and seven clear hood covers. The black cover is used to completely obscure the beam. The clear covers should always be used at all times during usage. The hood cover keeps the optics free from dust and debris, which can lead to overheating and damage to your device. Using the laser without the clear hood cover may void your warranty. The covers can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and lightly dried with a soft cloth, such as the cleaning cloth which was supplied with each pair of safety glasses.

How do I learn more about laser therapy?

Whether a healthcare provider or a consumer, there are many resources available to increase your laser therapy knowledge. There are several tutorial videos posted online:

What can I do to make the laser treatment more effective?

To assist in the effectiveness of a laser treatment with the LZ30, it is recommended to be adequately hydrated (rule of thumb is ½ your body weight, in ounces, per day). Proper balance of electrolytes (mainly potassium & magnesium) and low stress also may help your body utilize the laser light energy.

Menu Navigation Map in Advanced Settings

Custom presets, if installed, may alter the organization of the preset folders.