Abstract
Periodically, new ideas and treatment modalities are introduced into our lives. Some treatments may not have all the answers, and in some cases no answers at all. Working with a combination of treatments some of which may be relatively new, may provide benefit to those suffering, and further options for practitioners. An open mind, understanding and on-going research is important. In New Zealand, and some other countries, the use of low level laser therapy, otherwise known as LLLT, is not well known. Most of us have heard of industrial lasers and surgical lasers. In comparison to the latter, the therapeutic laser uses a much lower energy, and is easier to work with. I believe that every medical centre and hospital could benefit from introducing LLLT into patient care to speed up the healing of soft and hard body tissue and as this occurs, the drainage of toxins and excess fluid via the lymphatic system is encouraged. This is why lymphoedema, amongst many other debilitating conditions, may be treated and managed well with the use of low level laser therapy. The present article introduces LLLT from a nursing perspective, and in particular examines the benefits of LLLT applied for post-mastectomy lymphoedema.
