Shingles Treated with Class IV Laser by Marine City Chiropractor

Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, can be an excruciating condition characterized by a painful rash and blisters. While antiviral medications are commonly prescribed to alleviate symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness, some individuals may seek alternative or adjunctive treatments to manage the discomfort associated with shingles. One such approach gaining recognition is laser therapy, which utilizes concentrated light to target affected areas. In this article, we explore the effectiveness and benefits of laser therapy for the treatment of shingles.

Understanding Laser Therapy

Laser therapy, also known as photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), involves the application of specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular processes and promote healing. Unlike surgical lasers that cut or vaporize tissue, therapeutic lasers emit low-intensity light that penetrates the skin without causing damage. This non-invasive approach has been used to treat various medical conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, neuropathic pain, and wound healing, by enhancing cellular metabolism and reducing inflammation. Marine City Chiropractor uses a class IV laser for ultimate results.

Effectiveness of Laser Therapy for Shingles

Several studies have investigated the efficacy of laser therapy in managing shingles symptoms, particularly postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a persistent pain that can linger long after the rash has healed. Research indicates that laser therapy may help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve nerve function in individuals with shingles.

A study published in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery in 2017 examined the effects of laser therapy on PHN in a group of shingles patients. The results demonstrated significant reductions in pain intensity and improvements in quality of life following laser treatment sessions. Similarly, a systematic review published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry in 2019 concluded that laser therapy effectively reduced pain associated with PHN, suggesting its potential as a promising therapeutic option.

Benefits of Laser Therapy for Shingles Treatment

  1. Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment option, making it suitable for individuals who prefer to avoid invasive procedures or who may have contraindications to other therapies.
  2. One of the primary benefits of laser therapy for shingles is its ability to provide pain relief. By targeting inflamed nerve fibers and promoting tissue repair, laser treatment can help reduce the intensity and frequency of shingles-related pain.
  3. Inflammation is a hallmark feature of shingles, contributing to pain and tissue damage. Laser therapy has been shown to modulate inflammatory processes, leading to decreased swelling and improved healing.
  4. By enhancing cellular metabolism and promoting blood flow to the affected area, laser therapy can expedite the healing process, potentially reducing the duration of shingles symptoms and minimizing the risk of complications.
  5. Laser therapy is generally well-tolerated, with minimal risk of adverse effects. Unlike medications, which may cause systemic side effects, laser treatment targets specific areas without impacting surrounding tissues.

Laser therapy holds promise as a safe and effective adjunctive treatment for individuals suffering from shingles, particularly those experiencing persistent pain and inflammation. Current evidence suggests that laser therapy can provide meaningful relief and improve quality of life for shingles patients.

The Gilbert Clinic of Chiropractic and Massage is here to help you. If you or someone you know suffers with the effects of shingles Give Us A Call! to determine whether Class IV laser therapy is right for you.