This podcast discusses the use of laser therapy for lymphedema, a condition often caused by cancer. They explore the challenges of managing lymphedema and the potential benefits of photobiomodulation therapy. The speakers also highlight the trade-off between treatment time and power, and the advantages of laser therapy, including pain reduction and decreased swelling.
Using higher power lasers and treating the entire limb can yield better results in reducing lymphedema volume.
Investing in high-quality laser devices can result in faster and more efficient treatment for lymphedema patients.
Deep dives
The Challenges of Treating Lymphedema with Laser Therapy
Lymphedema is a common complication of breast cancer treatment, causing swelling, pain, and reduced quality of life. Laser therapy has shown promise in treating lymphedema by reducing tissue fibrosis and improving lymphatic drainage. However, a recent study that used a low-power laser and treated only one area of the limb did not show significant reduction in limb volume. Treating the entire limb and using higher power lasers may yield better results. The FDA has cleared one device specifically for lymphedema treatment, but its low power and long treatment times limit its practicality.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Laser Equipment
Effective laser therapy for lymphedema requires the use of appropriate equipment. Low-budget devices may be affordable, but they often deliver lower power and require longer treatment times. In contrast, higher power devices can treat the entire limb in just a few minutes, resulting in faster and more efficient treatment. While cost is a factor, investing in a high-quality laser device can greatly benefit patient outcomes and enable clinicians to help more patients.
The Impact of Research and Recommendations
The quality of research conducted on laser therapy for lymphedema can greatly influence the recommendations made in clinical practice. Poorly designed studies that do not consider factors such as treatment area, settings, and treatment frequency may yield negative results, which can then impact expert reviews and guideline recommendations. It is important for future research to focus on optimal treatment protocols and for clinicians to critically evaluate the effectiveness of laser therapy based on well-conducted studies.
Join Dr. Rountree and Kristi as they discuss several studies on laser therapy and how it should be used effectively as part of a patient lymphedema care plan. Lymphatic damage can be caused by many factors, but one of the most common is cancer, particularly breast cancer. Post cancer, lymphedema can cause patients to experience painful extremity swelling which affects their quality of life and can often lead to depression. It is a chronic condition that is difficult to manage with conventional treatments. Laser therapy is a fantastic tool for relieving lymphedema, but only if used properly.
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