FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is laser?
The word laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A laser emits electron particles known as photons, which exhibit the characteristics described below:
MONOCHROMATICITY: In laser light, all electromagnetic waves have the same wavelength and therefore, the same colour.
COHERENCE: All their photons in laser light oscillate in the same phase.
DIRECTIONALITY: Laser emission is highly directional and can be collimated.
INTENSITY: The primary advantage of lasers is the high intensity directed at a small area. (i.e. the focus of the pathology)
What is Low Intensity Laser Therapy?
Low intensity Laser Therapy (LILT) is the use of monochromatic light emission from a low intensity laser diode (250 mW or less) or an array of high intensity super luminous diodes (providing total optical power in the 10 to 2000 mW range) to treat musculoskeletal injuries, chronic and degenerative conditions and to heal wounds. The light source is placed in contact with the damaged tissue allowing the photon energy to penetrate to various levels. Interaction with certain intracellular micromolecules occurs resulting in the restoration of normal cell morphology, function and the enhancement of the body’s natural healing processes.
How long does a treatment take?
Treatments are typically fifteen minutes to one hour in duration for any particular condition or patient.
How many treatments are needed?
The number of treatments will vary with regard to the presenting problem. Just as every medical condition varies, so will the individual response to therapy. In a recent clinical report summarizing over 1000 patients treatment with the BioFlex Professional LILT system, at time of discharge, patients had averaged slightly less than ten treatments to resolve their problems.
Is the treatment covered by OHIP, Medicare, etc?
Insurance coverage varies depending on your insurance plan.
What are the side effects associated with BioFlex?
Unlike many pharmaceutical options, BioFlex is not-toxic; in comparison with surgical procedures, it is non-traumatic and most important, it is non-invasive.
What about the negative effects of radiation?
Low Intensity Laser Therapy (LILT) produces radiation as photon energy in the visible and near infra-red regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Worldwide research conducted over the past thirty years indicates that normally functioning cells are not adversely affected by this type of irradiation. Unlike other forms of radiation, i.e. x-ray, etc., this process is beneficial rather than harmful to tissue.
Where is BioFlex in use today?
Across Canada, the United States, Europe, South America and Asia, BioFlex has been integrated into the practice of care by an increasing number physicians, chiropractors and physiotherapists. In the twelve years that the therapy has been available at Meditech, more than 100,000 patients have received successful treatment with the BioFlex systems. The technology is currently being utilized in fourty seven countries. The Toronto Raptors and The Miami Heat of the NBA, The Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Blue Jays, have used BioFlex to treat their injured players with excellent results. In addition, many athletes from the world of golf, hockey, tennis and increasingly ballerinas, figure skaters, gymnasts and other performers in the artistic sports are experiencing the positive effects of the therapy.