Laser therapy increases blood flow primarily by promoting arteriolar dilation and enhancing microcirculation in vascularized tissues. This process often involves nitric oxide (NO) signaling.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Arteriolar Dilation: Lasers stimulate the widening of arterioles, which are small arteries that regulate blood flow to capillaries. This dilation reduces resistance, allowing more blood to reach the tissues.
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Enhanced Microcirculation: Laser therapy improves blood flow in the microcirculation, the network of tiny blood vessels including capillaries. This enhanced flow ensures that more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to cells, and waste products are removed more efficiently.
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Nitric Oxide (NO) Signaling: The process often involves the release of nitric oxide (NO). NO is a vasodilator, meaning it relaxes the smooth muscle cells in blood vessel walls, causing them to widen. Light, specifically from lasers, triggers NO release, contributing to vasodilation and increased blood flow.
In summary, laser therapy increases blood flow by dilating arterioles, enhancing microcirculation, and often involving the release of nitric oxide, leading to improved tissue perfusion and oxygenation.
