The Science of Low-Power Laser Therapy

This book is unique in taking a scientific approach to low-power laser therapy. During the last two decades, this technique has been developed as an effective tool for the treatment of soft tissue injuries, pain, arthritis and certain other conditions, and is now gaining widespread international acceptance amongst clinical professionals. However, there is a disparity between the increasingly frequent application of the technique by physicians and the slow progress of laboratory research. This book aims to bridge that gap. The first part of the book is devoted to the basic principles of visible and near infrared light interaction with cells. Numerous examples illustrate the application of the theory. The author considers experimental techniques and analyzes possible mistakes, as well as summarizing the major photoregulatory mechanisms. The later part of the book covers more advanced aspects of the technique, including the specificity of light responses of various eukaryotic cells and the current status of cellular and biochemical studies. The key points discussed are summarized at the end of each chapter, and a glossary of key terms is included. This comprehensive review of the author's research and the world literature is essential for researchers, working professionals and graduate students requiring a quick source of reference in the fast-developing field of laser light tissue interactions.