What type of laser is most commonly used in physical therapy?

The most commonly used type of laser in physical therapy is low-level lasers. These lasers, also known as cold lasers, operate at lower power outputs compared to others and are primarily used for their therapeutic effects without causing thermal damage to the tissues being treated.

Low-level lasers emit specific wavelengths of light that can penetrate the skin and reach underlying tissues, promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and alleviating pain. This makes them particularly suitable for conditions such as sprains, strains, and other musculoskeletal injuries.

In contrast, other types of lasers, like Class 4 lasers, typically operate at much higher power levels and are generally used for more aggressive treatment protocols, which may not be suitable for all patients, particularly in the context of non-invasive therapy. Gas lasers, while effective for certain applications, are not as widely utilized in physical therapy settings. Diode lasers, on the other hand, do have therapeutic applications but are often classified under low-level lasers and are less common than the broad category of low-level lasers as a whole.

Thus, low-level lasers stand out as the primary choice in physical therapy due to their effective and safe approach in facilitating healing and rehabilitation.