Increased Vascularity (Circulation)
Polychromatic light therapy has been established as a useful tool to increasing the formation of new capillaries, which are additional blood vessels that replace damaged ones. New capillaries speed up the healing process by carrying more oxygen and nutrients needed for healing, as well as carrying more waste products away.
Stimulated Production of Collagen
Collagen is the most common protein found in the body. Collagen is the essential protein used to repair damaged tissue and to replace old tissue. It is the substance that holds cells together and has a high degree of elasticity. By increasing collagen production less scar tissue is formed at the damaged site.
Stimulated Release of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)
ATP is the major carrier of energy to all cells. Increases in ATP allow cells to accept nutrients faster and get rid of waste products faster by increasing the energy level in the cell. Food turns into ATP before the cells utilize it. ATP provides the chemical energy that drives the chemical reactions of the cell.
Increased Lymphatic System Activity
The swelling or natural splinting process of the body, called Oedema, has two basic components: First, the liquid part, which can be evacuated by the blood system. Second, the proteins, which have to be evacuated by the lymphatic system.
Research has shown that the lymph vessel diameter and the flow of the lymph system can be doubled with the use of light therapy. The venous and arterial diameters can also be increased. Both parts of oedema (liquid and protein) can be evacuated much faster to relieve swelling.
Reduced Excitability of Nervous Tissue
The photons of light energy enter the body as negative ions. This calls upon the body to send positive ions, such as calcium, to the area being treated. These ions assist in firing the nerves, thereby relieving pain.
Stimulated Fibroblastic Activity – aiding in the repair process
Fibroblasts are present in connective tissue and are capable of forming collagen fibers.
Increased Phagocytosis
The process of scavenging or ingesting dead or degenerated cells by phagocyte cells for the purpose of clean up. This is an important part of the infection fighting process. Destruction of the infection and clean up must occur before the healing process can take place.
Induced thermal-like effect in the tissue
The light raises the temperature of the cells through a photochemical reaction.
Stimulated Tissue Granulation and Connective Tissue Projections
Part of the healing process of wounds, ulcers or inflamed tissues.
Stimulates Acetylcholine Release
Acetylcholine causes cardiac inhibition, vasodilation, gastrointestinal peristalsis and other parasympathetic effects.
