Video Summary:
Dr. Dan Murphy, a recognized figure in the realm of laser technology, provides enlightening insights into the science, applications, and advancements of laser therapy. Let’s embark on a journey to understand the core principles and groundbreaking discoveries that have transformed this medical domain.
The Essence of Laser Technology
The beauty of lasers lies in their ability to produce monochromatic light, where all wavelengths but one are eliminated. Such light is produced through a process called coherence, which is achieved using a diode that ensures all waveforms come together harmoniously.
While light emitting diodes (LEDs) can often be monochromatic, they aren’t coherent. This distinction has led to fascinating developments in research, particularly by a leading company, Erchonia. With a whopping 21 out of 24 laser clearances from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Erchonia has pioneered the distinction between monochromatic LEDs and monochromatic lasers.
LEDs as Perfect Placebos
Erchonia’s groundbreaking work has established that monochromatic LEDs serve as a perfect placebo, especially when testing for the distinction between coherent and non-coherent light. This means, in trials, individuals can’t discern between the monochromatic, coherent lasers and the non-coherent LEDs. This revelation ensures more accurate and reliable clinical trials.
Wavelength: The Heart of Laser Effectiveness
An intriguing study from the International Journal of Pharmacology in 2011 underscored the significance of wavelength in determining how light impacts tissues. Essentially, the wavelength of light utilized is more influential than having multiple wavelengths, which is akin to mere background light.
Originally, the red wavelength was predominantly used. Over time, a blend of red and violet (405 nanometer wavelength) emerged. But recent literature points towards the growing importance of the green wavelength, with the FDA even clearing a green wavelength monochromatic laser in the past year.
The True Nature of Lasers: Photochemistry Over Photothermal
Lasers, contrary to some beliefs, don’t work primarily on heat. As Dr. Murphy highlights, it’s not about the photothermal; it’s about the photochemistry. Elevating temperatures beyond 40 degrees Centigrade (104 degrees Fahrenheit) can denature proteins, and that’s not what lasers aim for.
An enlightening piece from Boston University and Harvard likens lasers’ photochemical effect to photosynthesis in plants. Rather than generating heat or cutting, lasers instigate a chemical change. The pinnacle of this change is an instantaneous spike in the production of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) – the body’s primary energy currency. This elevation in ATP facilitates various physiological processes, from healing to protein synthesis, underscoring the myriad applications of laser therapy.
Historical Backdrop and Future Avenues
The understanding and application of laser therapy have roots tracing back to 1967. Initially, red was the predominant color associated with lasers. But as studies evolved, especially those examining the genome mutation in mice, it became evident that there was more to lasers than just the red wavelength.
One interesting observation is the therapeutic efficacy of pulsing or blinking lasers over a continuous beam. Erchonia’s lasers, known for their pulsing capabilities, provide a testament to this claim. For those delving deep into the world of laser therapy, Dr. Murphy recommends a seminal book that sheds light on the intricacies of this technology.
Conclusion
Dr. Dan Murphy’s insights into laser therapy provide a comprehensive understanding of this dynamic field. From the core principles of coherence and monochromatic light to the myriad applications and advancements, laser technology continues to shape the future of medical treatments, holding promise for countless therapeutic avenues.