Using Laser Therapy To Quit Smoking

By Author: Sheila Baxter
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For many, smoking is a very addictive habit. Millions of smokers try to quit each year, and each year a large percentage fail in their attempt. Despite the proliferation of patches, gums, pills and various types of therapies, smokers cannot kick their addiction. There is a reason for this. The nicotine in cigarettes is a drug and like any drug, it releases endorphins in the system that makes smokers crave more. After a while, those with the addiction cease to be able to produce endorphins naturally. Their brains require artificial substances to maintain the body's "high". Unfortunately, this high comes at a cost. Respiratory problems, heart disease and cancer have been linked to cigarette smoking. These problems can cost thousands of dollars in medical bills and, in some cases, lead to death. Doctors and scientists assert that when a smoker quits, he or she adds years to their life. Quitting the habit also increases lung capacity which makes it easier to breathe and gives the body more energy to move.

In recent years, those with nicotine addictions have turned to alternative therapies in their search for a solution. One ...
... of these newer therapies is laser therapy. The therapy applies the basic theory of acupuncture. Low levels of laser beams (also called cold laser) are directed at acupuncture points that may include the ears, hands, wrists and arms; these beams stimulate nerve endings and subsequently release endorphins in the body. The goal is that the endorphin release will significantly decrease the body's nicotine cravings and over a matter of sessions totally eliminate the addiction. Therapists claim that patients can also avoid the problems of withdrawal that can stress the body and mind.

The sessions usually last about 30 minutes during which time the patient is made comfortable. The therapist then directs the beam of light on the pressure points. Because the beams are non-invasive and non-thermal, they do not cause any pain or damage any tissue. The patient should only feel a tingling or pulsing sensation as the mild stimulation releases the endorphins. While the high from abusive substances usually last a few hours, the natural endorphin high released during a laser therapy can last p to several weeks. During this time, the cravings should decrease until they totally disappear. Some patients may need only one session to overcome their addiction, while others may require a series of treatments that are gradually reduced with progress

Most laser therapy centers offer consultation with their treatments to address the psychological aspects of the addiction. Behavior modification may include tapes that advise a patient what to do in situations where he or she would usually crave a cigarette. Centers may also reinforce the therapy with antioxidants that rinse any addictive substance from the body.

While laser therapy has been popular in Canada and Europe for almost 30 years, it is only in the last decade that it has gained mainstream popularity in the U.S. Researchers are still conducting trials to determine how effective the therapy is in combating the various types of addictions, including nicotine addiction. Claims of success rates vary. Some enthusiasts boast a success rate of 85%. Anecdotally, thousands of those who have gone through cold laser therapy attest to its overall efficiency. Some even claim that the therapy has improved their sleep and other aspects of their lives

Laser treatment costs vary depending on the provider. Some fees are just over $200 while others may be a little higher than $400 per session. Some follow-up fees may cost less. Those seeking treatment should always check to ensure that a particular clinic is certified and that the clinicians are properly trained. A few clinics offer patients the opportunity to participate in clinical trial studies that are being monitored by the FDA. These studies will eventually make it possible for the FDA to approve laser treatment for addiction therapy, which in the end will benefit those who have exhausted other means to overcome their addictions.
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Laser Centers for Health provides low level laser therapy to help you quit smoking, lose weight, chronic pain and much more. Located in Victoria, BC they are convenient and professional. Visit online today.