The use of cold laser should be restricted to appropriate research settings because it is an unproven modality of treatment. Consumers who wish to try cold laser should discuss their situation with a knowledgeable vet who has no commercial interest.
referred to by the American Cancer Society as Cold Laser
Cold Laser Therapy
Other common name(s): None
Scientific/medical name(s): None
Description / Overview
Cold laser therapy is similar to acupuncture, but it involves the use of laser beams to stimulate the body's acupoints rather than needles (see Acupuncture). The term cold laser refers to the use of low-intensity or low levels of laser light. This treatment regimen appeals to those who fear the pain of needles. Proponents claim that cold laser therapy can reduce pain and inflammation. There is no scientific evidence to support these claims. This method should not be confused with conventional laser surgery, used as a valid treatment for some cancers, which involves vaporizing tissue with hot lasers.
The National Council Against Health Fraud has concluded:
Acupuncture is an unproven modality of treatment.
Its theory and practice are based on primitive and fanciful concepts of health and disease that bear no relationship to present scientific knowledge
Research during the past 20 years has not demonstrated that acupuncture is effective against any disease.
Perceived effects of acupuncture are probably due to a combination of expectation, suggestion, counter-irritation, conditioning, and other psychologic mechanisms.
The use of acupuncture should be restricted to appropriate research settings,
Insurance companies should not be required by law to cover acupuncture treatment,
Licensure of lay acupuncturists should be phased out.
Consumers who wish to try acupuncture should discuss their situation with a knowledgeable physician who has no commercial interest [20].