Laser Therapy
Cold Laser Therapy is a safe, painless, and effective treatment approach for a variety of medical conditions. This innovative therapy helps reduce inflammation and swelling, alleviates pain, and accelerates wound healing, making it ideal for treating a range of musculoskeletal problems—both acute and chronic.
At Millrise Physiotherapy and Massage, our experienced physiotherapists incorporate laser therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Unlike typical “Laser Only Clinics,” we focus on resolving the underlying issues rather than merely alleviating pain and inflammation symptoms. This holistic approach ensures that the root cause of your discomfort is addressed, reducing the likelihood of recurring problems.
Laser treatments typically last between 2 to 15 minutes, depending on the specific area, depth, and severity of the condition. Best of all, laser therapy is included at no additional cost within our physiotherapy treatments. Many patients report pain relief within their first few sessions, with noticeable improvements often seen after just one treatment.
Common Conditions Treated with Laser Therapy:
- Arthritis
- Back Pain
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Tension Headaches
- Neck Discomfort
- Tendinitis/Tendonopathy
- Sprains and Strains
- Myofascial Trigger Points
- Medial/Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bursitis
- Knee Pain
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Laser Therapy and How Does It Work?
Low Level Laser Light Therapy employs red and infrared light to relieve pain, accelerate healing, and decrease inflammation. When applied to the skin, photons penetrate several centimeters, energizing the mitochondria—cells’ powerhouses. This energy stimulates physiological responses that restore normal cell function and morphology, making it effective for individuals of all ages with both acute and chronic injuries.
Is There an Extra Charge for Laser Therapy?
No, at Millrise Physiotherapy and Massage, laser therapy is integrated into our physiotherapy sessions at no additional cost. We use laser therapy alongside other treatment methods to address the underlying problem, ensuring that the original cause of your pain is corrected.
Is Laser Therapy Safe?
Yes, laser therapy is safe, painless, and medication-free. It has been used in Canada, Europe, and England for over 20 years without any documented adverse side effects. This non-invasive procedure is recognized by many physicians as a highly effective treatment option.
Does Laser Therapy Hurt?
Most patients experience mild or no sensation during treatment. Occasionally, there may be a soothing warmth or a tingling feeling.
What Conditions Can Laser Therapy Treat?
Laser therapy can address a wide range of injuries and chronic pain conditions, including:
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Back pain, neck pain, tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, sprains, strains, myofascial trigger points, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, chondromalacia patella, whiplash
- Degenerative Joint Conditions: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis
- Neurogenic Pain: Shingles, trigeminal neuralgia, fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndrome (RSD)
What is a Super Pulsed Laser?
Our super pulsed lasers offer deeper penetration compared to continuous wave lasers of the same wavelength. Super pulsing delivers high peak power in brief bursts, allowing for quick absorption and optimal conditions for pain relief without thermal damage to tissues.
Can Laser Therapy Cause Cancer?
No, laser therapy is safe and utilizes wavelengths above 632 nm, which do not produce ionizing radiation (unlike X-rays and gamma rays that can cause cancer). In fact, laser therapy is safer than ordinary sunlight, which contains potentially harmful ultraviolet light.
How Long and How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Treatment duration typically ranges from 2 to 15 minutes, depending on the condition and size of the area being treated. Acute conditions may be treated daily, while chronic issues benefit from 2 to 3 sessions per week.
How Many Treatments Does It Take?
Treatment frequency varies by condition. Acute injuries may require 1 to 6 sessions, while chronic conditions often need 10 to 15 sessions. Moderate to severe arthritis may necessitate ongoing periodic care.
When Will I Notice a Difference?
Results can often be felt after the first treatment, with cumulative benefits observed over 3 to 4 sessions.
How Does It Differ from Ultrasound Therapy?
While ultrasound and laser therapy target similar injuries, they operate on different principles. Laser therapy uses light to stimulate ATP production for healing, whereas ultrasound uses sound waves to enhance blood flow and break down scar tissue. A qualified physiotherapist will assess your injury to determine which treatment is appropriate.
Can Laser Therapy Help with Old Chronic Injuries?
Yes, laser therapy is effective for both acute and chronic pain. Early intervention can prevent excessive scar tissue buildup, and studies show that laser therapy can enhance healing time by up to 60%.
Will Laser Therapy Help Avoid Surgery?
Therapy lasers have proven successful in managing pre and post-surgical pain, significantly reducing healing time. In some cases, combining laser therapy with physiotherapy can decrease the need for surgery, though your physiotherapist and doctor will assess your specific situation.
What Are the Contraindications?
Cold laser therapy should not be used on suspicious cancerous lesions, over the thyroid, or on pregnant patients. Direct eye exposure to the laser should also be avoided to prevent potential damage.