Laser Acupuncture

Presentation

Laser acupuncture (Low-Level Laser Therapy — LLLT applied to acupuncture points) stimulates traditional acupuncture points using a concentrated laser beam without skin penetration. Developed from the 1970s after the helium-neon laser invention, this approach expanded significantly with semiconductor diode lasers (GaAlAs) in the 1990s–2000s.

Wavelengths used generally range from 630 nm (visible red) to 904 nm (near infrared), with powers of 5–500 mW. The induced photobiomodulation activates cellular mitochondria, increases ATP production, modulates inflammation and promotes tissue repair.

Core Principles

• Photobiomodulation: low-level laser is absorbed by cellular chromophores, particularly mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase, stimulating the respiratory chain.
• Key parameters: wavelength (630–904 nm), power (5–500 mW), energy density (1–10 J/cm²), application time per point (10–60 seconds).
• Therapeutic window: too low a dose is ineffective, too high can be inhibitory (Arndt-Schulz biphasic curve).
• Same point selection: uses the same TCM points and protocols as needle acupuncture.

Main Indications

• Pediatrics: preferred indication — children often refuse needles
• Musculoskeletal pain: tendinopathy, osteoarthritis, low back pain
• Wound healing: chronic wounds, ulcers
• Neuropathy: carpal tunnel syndrome
• Pediatric ENT: recurrent otitis, rhinitis
• Post-chemotherapy nausea
• Addiction (smoking cessation)
• Immunocompromised patients

Session Overview

Diagnosis is identical to traditional acupuncture. The laser pen is applied perpendicularly to the skin for 10–60 seconds per point. Safety goggles are required. Duration: 10–20 minutes. Frequency: 1–3 sessions per week.

Contraindications

• Direct eye irradiation
• Malignant tumors (debated)
• Photosensitive epilepsy
• Pregnancy: same point restrictions as classical acupuncture
• Dark tattoos on treatment areas
• Drug-induced photosensitivity