Dose Dilemmas in Low Level Laser Ther- Apy - the Effects of Different Para- Digms and Historical Perspectives

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is controversial because of conflicting outcomes in peer reviewed literature. The possible combination and permutation of laser parameters is almost infinite. Defining what is an appropriate dose of laser energy for anyone condition remains anecdotal. A number of factors have contributed to the heterogenity of the literature and the variable outcomes. This paper examines how the confusion between laser acupuncture and non-acupuncture laser therapy has added to the dose dilemmas faced by clinicians using LLLT. Both historical and scientific perspectives on these differences are used to compare these two paradigms of laser therapy. An understanding of these differences may foster a more rational development of LLLT protocols.