1. Similar to Acupuncture
The laser stimulates and balances the flow of energy throughout the body, which can treat addiction to nicotine. It takes some of the ancient acupuncture methods to create the additional stimulation that increases circulation and reduces tension. Instead of needles, the low-level laser does the stimulation at the acupuncture points. The laser may release endorphins, those happy chemicals that you get from exercise.
2. It Won't Zap You
Even though the word laser sounds scary, it isn't a strong laser that is used. Unlike those that cut metal or are used in surgical procedures, this laser is a very low power, comparable to a low watt light bulb. The clinician identifies the energy points associated with addiction and takes aim with the laser to stimulate them. No needle goes in the skin, like in acupuncture, it's totally non-invasive and does not use heat.
3. Tingle, Tingle Little Laser
The acupuncture points on the face, hands and ears designate the areas of work. The doctors use these locations to apply the laser and feed energy to the points. Occasionally the recipient feels a little tingle, some pulsation, or just warmth. A sense of calm or lack of a direct sensation is the normal result a patient feels during treatment.
4. Does It Work?
Some in the medical community believe that the laser used to quit smoking is ineffective. They say that the clinics that present these cannot show actual records that demonstrate all the claims made of smoking cessation. There is only one treatment and no follow up to find statistics and it leads the critics to demand some proof. The proponents and providers claim that the referrals from the patients tell the story. The American Cancer Society states that there isn't any proof that the laser really works.
5. Does It Need FDA Approval?
The FDA did not approve the smoking therapy. However, it does approve the use of the laser for clinical trials and studies. Since many of the clinics suggest they're studying the laser's release of endorphins, they continue to sell the process without actually getting approval. This loophole allows several clinics to expand and consider franchises throughout the country. Does it work? There is no proof yet. Discuss the use with a family doctor and see if there is any better alternative. Find a former smoker that used the procedure and see how much it helped or find one that still smokes and see why.
