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Super Pulsed Cold Laser Therapy - Explained

The first low-level (cold) laser was developed in 1960 and early testing showed an increase in the speed and overall success of the healing process when it was used. Originally used for wound repair, clinical trials done throughout the 1970’s showed the applicability of the low-level laser in therapy to be more widespread than previously thought. The 1990’s came with the invention of more powerful and effective versions of the cold laser, eventually increasing its popularity in the field of rehabilitation.

Therapeutic cold lasers improve every year. New lasers have entered the market that provide deeper tissue penetration, higher power densities and reliable electronics to achieve better clinical outcomes. The trend has been to increase power density and dose since these have been shown to produce better clinical outcomes. In the case of superficial target tissues, clinicians have several laser options to consider. Underpowered lasers currently available do not deliver the needed light energy to treat tissues beyond a few centimeters. That’s where Multi-Radiance super pulsed lasers have an advantage. Read on to discover more about the technology & benefits of super pulsed laser therapy, and why we believe it’s the best option on the market.

What Is Super Pulsed (Low-Level) Laser Therapy?

Therapeutic laser therapy has become increasingly popular over the years. As interest and demand grow, the technology equally is rapidly developing.

Cold laser therapy is an example of revolutionary new technology entering the industry. Delivered through a technology called 'super pulsing', these super pulsed lasers deliver safer and more effective laser treatment than traditional methods (such as class IV laser), due to having no thermal output (categorised as class 1).

This new super pulsing technology allows for deeper penetration than that of lasers with the same wavelength and power output. The additional benefits of no heat being produced means the patient is more comfortable, a specialist room or equipment is not needed, and the laser can be held in one spot to deliver maximum treatment.

There is no need to continuously move the laser. In fact, they're so safe that pet owners can use them at home too.

If you're interested in a safer, more portable, and user-friendly way to deliver laser treatment, this is the place for you - explore more about our range of super pulsed lasers, or jump straight to our most frequently asked questions.

Photobiomodulation

Therapeutic uses for light have been demonstrated for over half a century and the varying wave-length (or colours) of light have been identified and defined as “photobiomodulation” or PBM

Photobiomodulation is the preferred term when referring to non-invasive, non-thermal LED/laser light therapy (LLLT). This is a form of light therapy that utilises non-ionising forms of light sources, including lasers, LEDs, and broadband light, in the visible and infrared spectrum.

It is a non-thermal process involving endogenous chromophores eliciting photo-physical and photochemical events at various biological scales. This process results in beneficial therapeutic outcomes including but not limited to the alleviation of pain or inflammation, immunomodulation, and promotion of wound healing and tissue regeneration

The super pulsed laser creates a synergistic effect based on a photoceutical optimised combination of wavelengths to:

  • Improve mitochondrial function
  • Manage oxidative stress
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Improve depth of penetration 

How Do Super Pulsed Lasers Work?

Multi Radiance lasers use true super pulse technology with 5 different wavelengths, all with their own therapeutic effects. Peer-reviewed research has confirmed the synergistic combination of these wavelengths and frequencies delivers more photon density through the skin for optimised outcomes in the target tissue than other leading lasers.


When it comes to laser therapy, wavelength determines the depth of penetration, not power. Super Pulsed Lasers (ACTIVet Pro & My Pet) use wavelengths, rather than power, allowing light to be delivered at greater depths, due to no safety concerns with heat.

Explore The Wavelengths

Super Pulsed Laser (905nm)

The Super Pulsed Laser (905nm) produces high powered light in billionth-of-a-second pulses. The power of each pulse drives the photons, or light energy deep into the target tissue. The technology’s power of up to 50,000mW creates a high photon density, reducing pain and improving micro-circulation.


Pulsed Red Light (660nm)

660nm red light penetrates relatively shallow but exerts a strong influence on acute injuries, reducing pain quickly.


Pulsed Broadband (860nm)

The infrared 860nm non-coherent light penetrates into deep tissue to provide photo physical changes to the target tissues that improve local blood circulation. Promoting muscle relaxation and pain relief.


Pulsed Blue Light (465nm)

465nm blue light penetrates poorly but is especially effective in treating MRSA, inflammatory skin conditions and eliminating other bacteria and viruses.


Static Magnetic Field (SMF)

A static magnetic field keeps ionized molecules of tissue in a dissociated state, enhancing the tissue’s potential to absorb the energy.



What Are The Benefits Of Super Pulsing?

(True) Super pulsing allows for deeper penetration than a laser of the same wavelength that is not super pulsed but has the same average output power. This is because short pulses allow for quicker absorption. In addition, the period between 20-200ns pulses promotes a better environment for optimal pain relief. Many Class IV companies promote their lasers as pulsed, but it’s typically just a gate that cuts the “on” time by 50%. This conventional pulsing has no effect on outcomes according to the physicist, Lars Hode. True super pulsing requires the (different) semiconductor used by Multi Radiance.

Super Pulsing Vs Continuous Wave Lasers

In general, laser diodes are either continuous waves or pulsed. The continuous wave (CW) diodes emit laser energy continuously, hence its name. Pulsed diodes emit a radiation impulse with a high amplitude (intensity) and duration which is typically extremely short: 100-200 nanoseconds. Continuous-wave lasers produce a fixed level of power during emission. Although lacking the high peak power of a "true" or "super" pulsed laser, most continuous-wave lasers can be made to flash a number of times per second to simulate pulse-like rhythms by interrupting the flow of light rapidly as in turning a light switch “off” and “on”. “True” or “super” pulsed lasers, as the name implies, produce a brief high power level light impulse.

It is the high power level achieved during each pulse that drives the light energy to the target tissue. Even though the pulse peaks at a high power level there are no deleterious thermal effects in the tissue because the pulses are of such short duration. Therefore, the peak power of a “true” or “super” pulsed laser is quite high compared to its average pulse power. By using “true” or “super” pulsed lasers, one is able to more effectively drive light energy into tissue. The laser and electronic technologies required to use pulsed diodes are more advanced and the diodes themselves are more expensive than the continuous wave diodes.

How Deep Does Super Pulsed (Low-Level) Laser Light Penetrate?

The level of tissue penetration by the laser beam depends on the beam’s optical characteristics, as well as on the concentration and depth of the chromophores, which are absorbed at different percentages according to the laser light’s wavelength.
For instance, water absorbs almost 100 percent of the laser irradiation at 10,600 nanometers, the wavelength of a CO2 gas laser. That is the reason why this type of laser wavelength is used in surgical applications.

Other factors affecting the depth of penetration are the technical design of the laser device and the particular treatment technique used. There is no exact limit with respect to the depth penetrated by the light. The laser light gets weaker the further from the surface it penetrates where eventually the light intensity is so low that no biological effect from it can be measured.

In addition to the factors mentioned, the depth of penetration is also contingent on tissue type, pigmentation and foreign substances on the skin surface such as creams or applied oils. Bone, muscles and other soft tissues are transparent to certain laser lights, which means that light can safely penetrate these tissues.

The radiation in the visible spectrum, between 400 and 600 nanometers, is absorbed by the melanin, while the whole extension of the visible which goes from 420 to 750 nanometers is absorbed by composite tetrapyrrolics. In the infrared, which covers about 10,000 nanometers of light spectrum, water is the main chromophore. Fortunately, there exists a narrow band in the light spectrum where water is not a highly efficient chromophore, thereby allowing light energy to penetrate tissue that is rich in water content. This narrow band, which extends approximately from 600 to 1,200 nanometers, is the so-called “therapeutic window”. That is the reason why the lasers in the market today have wavelengths within the 600-1,200 nanometer limit. The penetration index is not at the same level.


How Safe Are Low-Level Super Pulsed Lasers?

Class 1 super pulsed laser is the safest form of laser therapy. The lasers emit no heat and are safe to the naked eye. There is no need for specialised rooms or equipment when using these lasers. Learn more about laser classification here.


Protective eyewear is NOT required during the application of the low-level laser. It’s recommended to never look directly at a laser emitter or any similar light source for more than 30 seconds. Multi Radiance Medical laser devices are designed to low power specifications with maximum attention to eye safety. Whether or not you decide to use the safety goggles is largely a matter of personal preference and light sensitivity.

The average power and the type of light source (non-ionizing) laser devices use, do not permit heat-damage or carcinogenic (cancer-causing) effects. Due to increased blood circulation, there is sometimes a very minimal sensation of warmth locally

Laser therapy is not advised on patients that are pregnant, have cancer or have a systemic infection, due to the increased blood flow and cellular activity.



Most Popular Questions (FAQ's)

Also known as soft laser, low-level laser therapy is a form of photo-therapy used to stimulate tissue repair and provide pain management. The laser uses focused red and infrared light to stimulate tissue at and below the surface of the patient's skin. The biochemical effect of the low-level light increases the production of cellular energy and thus promotes cellular regeneration, production of collagen for tissue repair, and vascular dilation and synthesis for better circulation. Light from the low-level laser also encourages production of the body’s natural pain-relievers. Read more about Super Pulsed Lasers.


Super pulsing allows for deeper penetration than that of a non super pulsed laser with the same wavelength and average output power. Due to the wavelengths being so fast and short, there is no hazard to health and no heat is created. This is because short pulses allow for quicker absorption. In addition, the period between 20-200ns pulses promotes a better environment for optimal pain relief. Many Class IV companies promote their lasers as pulsed, but it’s typically just a setting that cuts the “on” time by 50%. This conventional pulsing and has no effect on outcomes according to the physicist, Lars Hode. True Super Pulsing requires the (different) semiconductor used by Multi Radiance in the ACTIvet and MyPet range. 


Low-level laser can be used to treat a myriad of conditions, but within the realm of rehabilitation, it is used mainly on musculoskeletal injuries, soft tissue injuries (sprains and strains) and arthritis. It also helps to release tight muscles, stimulate nerve regeneration, reduce inflammation and aid in pain management. Take a look at more of the conditions treated here.


The ACTIVet Pro and ACTIVet Pro Laser Shower Lasers feature the proven powerful blue wavelength that effectively fights bacterial and fungal infections, even for MRSA.  Research shows blue light therapy is effective against black pigmented bacteria in animals, making it ideal for gingivitis and periodontal disease. Multi Radiance Laser Therapy devices use 465nm - 470nm blue light wavelength to safely kill bacteria that cause common dental conditions. As bacteria become more resistant to antibiotics, blue light therapy offers a safe, side-effect-free alternative to manage pet dental care.

Because low-level laser therapy has a cumulative effect, for best results treatments should be done at the frequency recommended by our treatment protocols and your clinical judgement. Low-level laser therapy is often recommended in conjunction with other modalities to provide the best outcome and may be used as either a primary or complementary therapy. Take a look at our clinical papers that validate Multi Radiance Super Pulsed Technology. Or read our blog on how Super Pulsed Lasers compare to class IV lasers. 


Low-level laser therapy is very safe when done properly. To ensure the laser therapy is only carried out when necessary a full veterinary clinical examination needs to be performed. The correct laser therapeutic treatment plan can then be determined by the vet and at-home treatment to be discussed with the owner, with the vet providing the owner with suitable training. Although the term “laser” may conjure up images of the high-powered version sometimes used in surgical settings, the low-level laser causes no temperature change to the patient during or after the treatment and there is no risk of burning. As a precaution, laser therapy is not advised to be used in patients that are pregnant, have cancer, or have a systemic infection, as laser therapy stimulates cell growth and increases metabolic functions. Although no negative effects have ever been reported, it is still advised to avoid use in these circumstances. Read more about the safety of Low-Level Super Pulsed Laser Therapy.


Absolutely not. The average power and the type of light source (non-ionizing) laser devices use do not permit heat damage or carcinogenic (cancer-causing) effects. Due to increased blood circulation, there is sometimes a very minimal sensation of warmth locally, but this is not to be confused as thermal effects or damage. laser therapy is not advised to be used in patients that are pregnant, have cancer, or have a systemic infection, as laser therapy stimulates cell growth and increases metabolic functions. Although no negative effects have ever been reported, it is still advised to avoid use in these circumstances.



 When it comes to laser therapy, wavelength determines the depth of penetration, not power. Super Pulsed Lasers (ACTIVet Pro & MyPet) use wavelengths, rather than power, allowing light to be delivered at greater depths, due to no safety concerns with heat. Read our blog ' Super Pulsed Laser Therapy' for more. 


Low-level laser therapy can be, and often is, combined with other types of veterinary medicine. Because low-level laser decreases pain and enhances circulation, your veterinarian may choose to use the cold laser in conjunction with other forms of therapy to enhance the benefits of those therapies. In general, low-level laser therapy integrates well into a treatment plan that utilizes either traditional or alternative forms of veterinary medicine. If your companion animal is receiving low-level laser therapy from a practitioner other than your regular veterinarian, it is imperative that both individuals are kept updated about the ongoing treatment in order to provide coordinated care of your pet, to allow proper evaluation of treatment.


There are more than 120 double-blind positive studies confirming the clinical effects of laser technology. More than 300 research reports have been published. There are over 300 dental studies alone. More than 90% of these studies verify the clinical value of using laser technology. A review of negative results shows that low dosage was the single most significant factor. Dosage is meant by the light energy delivered to a given unit area during treatment. The energy is measured in joules and the area in cm2. Assuming that the power of the laser remains constant during the treatment, the energy of the light will be equal to the power in watts multiplied by the time in seconds during which the light is emitted. Therefore, a laser with more power (watts) can deliver the same amount of energy (joules) in less time. A pulsed laser with more average power (watts) can deliver the same amount of energy (joules) in less time and at deeper target tissues than a continuous wave laser.


Class IV lasers are typically twice as expensive and users typically must reduce the power levels significantly to reduce the incidence of thermal overload. So, WHY pay double for the power you have to turn down to safe levels? Multi Radiance Super Pulsed Lasers are also equipped with blue light technology, portable, and provide the option for practices to rent these out to their clients for additional revenue generation.


Is Financing Available To Make Monthly Payments & Immediate Revenue?

Yes. Financing your Super Pulsed Laser is a great way to equip your practice with the latest technology and start offering safe and effective therapy as a treatment for your clients pets. Why not also finance the MyPet laser and rent this out to your clients, allowing them to continue treatment at home - generating even more revenue for your practice and as a way of paying for the finance. Use our finance calculator to get a quick free quote. 


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