What are the contra-indications?

DIRECT IRRADIATION OF THE EYES

Class 3b lasers are potentially harmful to the retina - though retinal damage is highly unlikely. Safety goggles must, however, be worn by both patient and practitioner.

PREGNANCY

Laser is contra-indicated for use over the pregnant uterus. It may be used on the pregnant woman as an adjunct to the other modalities being used for the treatment of back pain or other complaints.

CARCINOMA

Do not use laser over any known primary or secondary lesions. Laser treatment may be given for pain relief during the terminal stages of the illness - we recommend this be done only with the full consent of both patient and consultant involved.

THYROID

Laser should not be used over the thyroid gland.

HAEMORRHAGE

It is conceivable that laser-mediated vasodilation may worsen the haemorrhage.

IMMUNE SUPPRESSANT DRUGS

Laser Therapy is contra-indicated for patients on these drugs

TREATMENT OVER SYMPATHETIC GANGLIA, THE VAGUS NERVES & CARDIAC REGION IN PATIENTS WITH HEART DISEASE

Laser therapy may significantly alter neural function, and is therefore contra-indicated over these regions in patients with heart disease.