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Freedom from Smoking Related Links
Locations (Click on location for directions and hours)
(262) 437-7347
(414) 433-4931
(608) 332-6292
(608) 332-6292
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is laser therapy safe?
Yes. Low-level laser therapy has been practiced for nearly thirty years in a wide variety of applications and has never given any indication of producing adverse side effects. In fact, almost every effect of correctly applied laser therapy is beneficial to the well-being of the body. Our therapists are thoroughly trained, and the FDA has ruled laser therapy equipment as essentially safe, non-significant risk devices. This low-level laser emits less energy than a 60-watt light bulb and is as safe as walking outside on a sunny day.
Does it hurt?
Not at all. Our soft, non-thermal therapeutic laser creates no heat, and no pain is experienced whatsoever. Most people feel absolutely nothing. Some people experience a tickling or tingling sensation, or sometimes a warmth that is due to the focused increase of blood flow to the applied area.
How does your program compare to other methods of quitting smoking?
Several studies devoted to determining the success of smoking cessation therapies have been conducted. These studies have concluded that laser therapy has a higher success rate than all other smoking cessation methods on the market. Most methods used today address only one aspect of the addiction to nicotine, whereas the Laser Wellness Center program is a multi-dimensional approach combining several techniques. Here is a list of some of the methods and information about them.
Cold turkey: An honorable approach, but very difficult for most people without some aid to relax cravings and withdrawal discomfort. Less than 5% who try are able to quit cold turkey.
Cutting down: By far the worst way to quit smoking. It trains the brain to believe smoking is more desirable and prolongs the misery. Less than 2% who try to cut down ever quit smoking.
The Gum: Similar to the patch, however you must chew the gum up to 15 times daily for 6 months. Again you are still addicted to nicotine as well as the possibility of negative side effects such as nausea, constipation, severe angina pectoris and vasopastie disease. Success rate: 5%
The Patch: Simply a different way to ingest nicotine. The intention is to gradually reduce the dosage over time, but most people end up becoming addicted to the patch. It's an approach very similar to cutting down, which is the worst way to quit smoking. The patch can cause several negative side effects such as, skin disease, vascular disease, insomnia, dizziness, nausea and at best only a rash. Several organizations still believe that nicotine replacement products are 'proven' methods for quitting, but no studies suggest a Success rate any higher than only 16%.
Prescription Pills: Zyban and Chantix are the most common drugs currently used for smoking cessation. They are expensive and must be taken for many weeks. They come with the risk of serious possible side effects such as, seizure, insomnia, high blood pressure, dizziness, dry mouth and hallucination. Chantix was developed as a way to mimic the way laser therapy works. The difference is that laser therapy triggers your body to naturally medicate itself, while Chantix injects artificial chemicals into your body that don't work as well as your own medicine and often causes serious side effects. Success rate: 27%
Hypnosis: An intriguing approach that unfortunately has yet to garner significant acceptance in the medical community.
Acupuncture: Attempts to rejuvenate the body's flow of energy by stimulating meridians points along energy channels. This can help relieve cravings, among other affects. The concept is quite similar to the principles of low-level laser therapy, but acupuncture is invasive to the body and can be painful for some people. It also requires many treatments over several months. Laser therapy can produce longer lasting results with fewer treatments.
Counseling: Therapy helps, when done in small groups or individually, but must be done often, especially during the first two weeks. It is recommended you attend at least twice a week. This works best when combined with other methods, which is exactly what we offer at Laser Wellness Center.
Will my medical insurance cover the cost of your program?
Laser therapy for the treatment of smoking addiction is not eligible for medical insurance coverage. The cost of many smoking cessation programs, including laser therapy, are tax-deductible, so consult your accountant. Also, some companies will pay for part or all of the cost of your smoking cessation program because it saves them a lot of money in several ways.
How can your program save me money?
Besides offering you the terrific health and emotional benefits of being a non-smoker, quitting smoking with this program can save you money in several ways.
How long does the treatment take?
The laser treatment takes about 30 minutes, although you should allow an hour for the initial consultation.
How many treatments will I need?
Laser therapy can be very effective after just one treatment, but we offer two extra treatments - free of charge - to reinforce the benefits. It's best to receive these booster treatments within two weeks of the initial treatment.
Will I gain weight?
Weight gain is not a necessary response to smoking cessation, and it is less likely when you quit smoking with laser treatments. Laser therapy studies and clinical experience have found weight gain to be less than other ways for quitting. If weight gain is a concern, ask your Laser Wellness Center technician to explain how how can avoid weight gain.
Are there any health conditions for which laser therapy is not recommended?
Low-level laser therapy for smoking cessation is a very safe modality that can be used under almost all medical situation. It is however not recommended for those who have tumors, active cancers, or for those who are undergoing radiation or chemotherapy. We also choose to decline laser treatments if you are pregnant. If you have any health concerns, consult Laser Wellness Center and your physician prior to treatment.
Is there anything I need to do before my first treatment?
No. Just relax and look forward to starting a new life free from smoking. If you want you can drink more water for a few days before your treatment and take extra vitamin C. Alcohol reduces the effectiveness, so refrain from alcohol for at least 12 hours prior to treatment. Please wear loose fitting pants for your treatment so we can access points on your legs.
How can I set up an appointment?
Simply give us a call. We'll answer any questions you may have and prepare you for your initial treatment.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes, you can purchase gift certificates. A word of advice, though: since part of the addiction is emotional and mental, it's important that the person coming in for therapy has a genuine desire to quit smoking. Most smokers want to quit, but not all, and Laser Wellness Center respects a person's choice to continue smoking. While laser therapy will work even on reluctant participants, Laser Wellness Center wishes to work only with those who truly want to quit smoking with laser therapy.
For more information about laser therapy and our programs please give us a call, we're happy to talk with you.
Germantown: (262) 437-7347 Oak Creek: (414) 433-4931 Lake Delton/Reedsburg: (608) 332-6292
Laser Wellness Center . . . Harnessing the Healing Power of Light
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