Therapeutic laser technology arrives in Dixfield.
DIXFIELD – In 1917, Albert Einstein conceived the concept of lasers.
Late last month, Lauren Hebert, a Dixfield therapist, became the first therapist in Maine to acquire a MicroLight 830 low-level laser, putting Einstein’s theory to practical use.
Hebert, of SmartCare Physical Therapy, bought the hand-held cold laser device to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis and other soft-tissue problems. According to Hebert, the light alters body chemicals to improve circulation, correct cell function, lower nerve irritability, reduce inflammation and speed healing.
“Better control of inflammation by the laser should improve the effectiveness of corrective exercises that restore flexibility and strength to speed recovery,” he said.
He and certified athletic trainer Aaron Perreault also intend to use the laser to treat rotator cuffs, Achilles tendinitis, heel spurs, sprains and arthritis, supplementing other physical therapy procedures.
“We enjoy very good results with our current methods of treatment, but this laser should give us an added edge of quality,” said Hebert, whose practice treats a variety of musculo-skeletal problems.
The MicroLight 830, which looks like a flashlight and sells for $10,000, and has been extensively tested in the U.S. for 12 years, winning approval from the Food and Drug Administration in February 2002.
Hebert, who was involved in early cold laser research 15 years ago, said he’s “been waiting for the FDA to do the paperwork so I could buy one for patient care.” He’s the first therapist in Maine to obtain the cold laser.
The MicroLight 830 is said to produce no heat nor damage body tissues. It uses an invisible infrared wavelength of light that is projected directly to areas of injury or inflammation.
“It is pretty expensive equipment, but this laser could help some difficult cases recover better, and even avoid surgery. The result should be quicker recovery, an example of advanced technology that reduces health-care costs,” Hebert said.
The device is already in use in other areas of the country. Ellen Spicuzza, a registered nurse for the New England Patriots, used the laser to treat more than 10 Patriot players for tendon and muscle injuries prior to their Super Bowl victory this year.
“Since it worked for the Super Bowl champs, it has created a stir in the NFL,” according to Michael M. Barbour, president of MicroLight Corp., the patent holder on the device.
Following trials in 2003, the laser was also approved for use in the sports medicine departments of the U.S. Olympic Training Centers in Colorado Springs, Colo., and Chula Vista, Calif. Last month, the U.S. Olympic Committee approved its use at the training center in Lake Placid, N.Y.
“It revolutionized physical therapy in Europe. They’ve had it for the past 20 years. Now, there’s a huge waiting list for people to get them in the U.S.,” Hebert said.
And there also appears to be no end in sight for other types of treatment with the device.
Barbour said he has sold a few of the lasers to veterinarians who have used the MicroLight 830 to treat horses for ligament tendinitis, planter desmitis and to help heal wounds.
His company is also doing research with the laser with the goal of relieving the sharp, stabbing pains associated with peripheral neuropathy in diabetics, and to prevent leg amputations.
According to Barbour, work is under way to manufacture smaller, less costly low-level laser devices for use by the general public.
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