Laser and red light therapy, and the claims we will not make for it

Source Chiropractic uses the Summus Horizon Class IV Medical Laser as an addition to care for selected muscle and joint complaints. This guide explains the device, the limits of its stated indications, and questions to ask before deciding on treatment at our Clarksville practice.

What is this laser intended to do?

The manufacturer's Horizon product information describes a device that heats tissue locally for temporary easing of minor pain and stiffness in muscles or joints, including minor arthritic discomfort and spasms. It also describes temporary effects on local circulation and muscle relaxation.

Those are the manufacturer's intended uses, not a promise about your result. They do not establish lasting recovery, reversal of disease, or that this device is better than other care. The manufacturer's notice says its devices have no FDA clearance or approval for other clinical indications.

Where does it fit at Source Chiropractic?

We may use the device alongside a broader plan for complaints involving the low back, neck, shoulder, knee, foot and plantar fascia, or muscles and joints affected by sports and overuse. An examination and discussion come before deciding whether an additional service makes sense.

Laser is not used here to treat diabetic neuropathy, trigeminal neuralgia, wounds, ulcers or burns, or for cosmetic skin rejuvenation. What we use it for is temporary relief of musculoskeletal pain and stiffness.

Is this the same as cold laser or LED treatment?

These terms describe different features. Cold laser therapy usually refers to low-level light treatment. Class IV is a laser safety classification. The word "red" describes a visible color, and does not establish a treatment's effectiveness or identify a device.

This page describes the Horizon laser. Ask the team to identify the exact device proposed for your appointment and to clarify whether a separate LED service is available. An article about one light-based treatment should not be taken as a description of every other device.

What are the risks?

Class IV lasers can damage skin and eyes through direct or reflected exposure. Protective measures and correct operation matter, even when a procedure does not involve an incision. The classification describes a hazard; it does not grade clinical benefit. FDA: laser hazard classifications.

Ask the clinician to explain eye protection, precautions relevant to your health history and medicines, and what sensations should prompt stopping. Report discomfort during treatment. Do not use a laser appointment to delay evaluation of new or worsening symptoms.

What other options should I consider?

Options depend on the diagnosis. For low-back pain, guideline-based choices include continued appropriate activity, exercise and, when considered, manual therapy within an exercise-based plan. NICE's recommendations explain those options. Medical care and physical therapy can answer different needs. Massage therapy is a separate service to discuss rather than an automatic addition.

Evidence about low-level laser treatment cannot automatically establish benefit from a different device or dose. Ask what evidence applies to the treatment proposed for you.

What should I ask before booking?

• What problem are we treating, and what improvement are we looking for?
• Why add laser to the plan, and what other options are reasonable?
• What does each visit cost, and when will we review progress?
• What will we do if symptoms do not improve or get worse?

Contact the team to discuss availability and fees. The new-patient chiropractic offer has its own terms; ask about the cost of additional services before agreeing to them.