Therapeutic Laser Applications Flashcards
7 cards from real CLT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Therapeutic Laser Applications flashcards as text
A laser therapist notes a patient has dark skin (Fitzpatrick type VI). How should this affect treatment parameters?
Answer: Reduce power density to account for higher melanin absorption in superficial tissue
Higher melanin content in darker skin increases absorption in superficial layers, so reducing power density prevents overheating the epidermis.
During laser therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome, which anatomical structure is the primary therapeutic target?
Answer: Median nerve and surrounding inflamed tissues
The median nerve and its surrounding inflamed connective tissues within the carpal tunnel are the primary targets for reducing compression and symptoms.
What is the recommended eye protection practice for BOTH the therapist AND patient during Class 3B laser therapy?
Answer: Both must wear wavelength-specific optical density (OD)-rated goggles
Both the therapist and patient must wear wavelength-specific goggles with appropriate optical density ratings to prevent retinal injury.
Which parameter distinguishes a 'pulsed' laser from a 'continuous wave' laser in therapy devices?
Answer: Pulsed lasers emit energy in discrete bursts with off-periods between pulses
Pulsed lasers emit energy in timed bursts separated by off-periods, allowing different biological effects and potentially deeper penetration compared to continuous wave.
A patient on photosensitizing medication (e.g., doxycycline) seeks laser therapy. The therapist should:
Answer: Use caution, reduce energy dose, and monitor for adverse skin reactions
Photosensitizing drugs can increase tissue sensitivity to light energy, requiring reduced dosage and careful monitoring for adverse reactions.
What is 'superpulsing' in therapeutic laser technology?
Answer: Delivering very high peak power in ultra-short pulses while maintaining low average power
Superpulsing delivers very high instantaneous peak power in extremely short pulses, allowing deeper photon penetration while keeping average power and tissue heating low.
For treating lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), the optimal probe placement includes:
Answer: The lateral epicondyle, common extensor origin, and surrounding tender points
Effective lateral epicondylitis treatment targets the lateral epicondyle, the common extensor tendon origin, and adjacent tender/trigger points.