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What You Need to Know About Laser Therapy

By July 14, 2020August 27th, 2025No Comments

What is Laser Therapy?

Laser Therapy is the application of red and infrared light over injuries to improve soft tissue healing, resulting in relief of both acute and chronic conditions. Laser therapy for pain management is widely recognized, as it uses monochromatic light emission from high-intensity super luminous diodes to treat musculoskeletal injuries, chronic and degenerative conditions, and to heal wounds. The light source is placed in contact with the skin, allowing photon energy to penetrate the soft tissue. This energy interacts with various intracellular biomolecules, restoring normal cell functions and enhancing the body’s healing processes.

How Does Laser Therapy Work?

When a cell is working to repair itself, it needs a great deal of energy. Most cells continue to work at their usual rate, which is why repair of some tissues takes so long.

Rehab Console web

In some instances, the cells stay so busy dealing with inflammation and by-products that are present in the injured tissue, they don’t have enough energy left to provide effective repair. With the use of low-level laser therapy treatment (also known as cold laser therapy), cells are stimulated and their activity increases, allowing them to perform faster and more effectively. The result is enhanced wound and injury healing in a shorter period of time. A more detailed explanation of the science behind how laser therapy works is that the light from the laser stimulates the cell’s mitochondria into hyperactivity. The Krebs Cycle of metabolism occurs on the inner membrane of this structure, liberating energy from the chemical bonds present in ATP (adenosine triphosphate) molecules. The cell is provided with more energy and is now in an optimum condition to play its part in the healing process.

What Conditions/Injuries can be treated by Laser Therapy?

– Tendonitis

– Rotator Cuff Tears

– Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow

– Calcifications

– Fractures with Soft Tissue Damage

– Ligament and Tendon Tears

– Sprains and Strains

– Plantar Fasciitis

– Degenerative Disc Disease

– Bursitis

– Chondromalacia Patella

– TMJ

– Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

– Whiplash

– Arthritis

FAQs

1. What is Cold Laser Therapy / Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)?

Cold Laser Therapy, also known as Low-Level Laser Therapy treatment (LLLT), is a type of laser therapy treatment that uses low-intensity light to stimulate healing in injured or painful areas. Unlike surgical lasers, it does not cut, heat, or damage tissue, which is why it’s called “cold.” The light energy penetrates the skin and is absorbed at the cellular level, helping to:

  • Stimulate tissue repair
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Relieve pain

This non-invasive low-level laser therapy treatment is painless and often used for musculoskeletal injuries, arthritis, and joint pain. Many people search for “what is laser therapy” because it provides a safe, effective option for recovery and pain relief.

2. Is Laser Therapy safe?

Yes, laser therapy treatment is considered very safe when performed by a qualified professional. It is:

  • Non-invasive: No needles, injections, or incisions.
  • Low-risk: Minimal chance of side effects compared to medications or surgery.
  • Well-tolerated: Most patients report little to no discomfort during sessions.

This makes it a safe alternative for pain management and rehabilitation.

3. What are the side effects or contraindications of Laser Therapy?

Most people do not experience side effects from cold laser therapy. In rare cases, mild redness, swelling, or tingling at the treatment site may occur but usually resolve quickly.

Contraindications include:

  • Avoid use over cancerous tumors
  • Not recommended over the thyroid gland
  • Pregnant women should avoid using over the abdomen/uterus
  • Patients with photosensitivity disorders or on photosensitizing medications
  • Direct eye exposure should be avoided (protective eyewear is required)

4. How many sessions of Laser Therapy are needed?

The number of sessions depends on the type and severity of the condition:

  • Acute injuries (sprains, strains, soft tissue injuries): 4–10 sessions may be enough.
  • Chronic conditions (arthritis, degenerative disc disease): 10–30+ sessions are often required for lasting results.
  • Frequency: Typically 2–3 sessions per week at the start, then tapering down as healing progresses.
  • Maintenance therapy: Some chronic conditions may benefit from ongoing periodic treatments.

5. Does Laser Therapy work for pain?

Yes, laser therapy for pain is widely used to reduce pain and inflammation. It helps by improving blood flow, speeding up tissue repair, and lowering swelling in muscles and joints. Many patients report improved mobility, faster recovery, and long-lasting relief from conditions such as arthritis, back pain, and sports injuries.

Sources used:

1. http://medxhealth.com/Our-Products/Phototherapy/Rehab-Laser-Console-System.aspx

2. http://www.serenowellness.com/doctor/laser-therapy.php