FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a 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 color.
DIRECTIONALITY : Laser emission is highly directional and can be collimated.
COHERENCE : All the photons in laser light oscillate in the same phase.
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 superluminous 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 treated with the BioFlex Professional LILT system, at time of discharge, patients had averaged slightly less than ten treatments to resolve their problem.
How much does one charge for treatment?
Fee for treatment is established by individual clinics and varies from $35 to $60 for 30 minutes of treatment, depending on local custom. At Meditech we charge $45 per half hour of treatment.
Is the treatment covered by OHIP, Medicare, etc?
Insurance coverage varies depending on the professional designation and/or qualifications of the therapist and the insurance plan.
What are the side effects associated with BioFlex?
Unlike many pharmaceutical options, BioFlex is non-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 of 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 this therapy.
Where has clinical research on BioFlex been conducted?
Several controlled studies have been performed since 1996, utilizing BioFlex Professional Systems. Two of these involved experimental models of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, ongoing clinical research of various disease entities is conducted onsite at Meditech's two rehabilitation centers and currently two research projects are proceeding in conjunction with medical specialists at two university hospitals. The results of all studies reveal that Meditech Systems consistently produce positive treatment outcomes. A synopsis of these studies is available on our website.
Meditech has always been engaged in extensive programs of beta-testing of the BioFlex Systems, particularly with reference to parameters and protocols. Various research studies have been carried-out at Ryerson University, the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Ulster and the University of Toronto. Additional research is being conducted at several US centers. Results from all clinical test sites have indicated that the benefits resulting from treatment utilizing the BioFlex Systems are both positive and at times dramatic.