What is Cold Laser Therapy?
Cold Laser Therapy, also referred to as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or therapeutic laser, is an FDA-cleared medical treatment that provides a safe, non-invasive, non-addictive, drug-free, well-tested solution for reducing inflammation and acute or chronic pain (unlike pain medications that only mask symptoms).
Unlike “hot” lasers that are used for surgery, therapeutic lasers are photochemical, and cannot burn the skin. Another way to think about it is this: hot lasers are used for surgical precision, therapeutic lasers are used for healing precision.
Cold laser technology, also known as photobiomodulation, was originally developed in 1967 by Professor Andre Mester who began using low power lasers in medicine. Since then it has undergone dramatic refinements, resulting in today’s powerful treatment technology that is highly effective.
The low level laser delivers specific frequencies of light to the cells of the body. Each treatment consists of placing the targeted area under the laser light for an average of 3 to 5 minutes. Combined with chiropractic, laser therapy is a very effective way to reduce inflammation and get out of pain!
What are the Benefits?
- Reduces pain
- Reduces inflammation
- Reduces swelling
- Accelerates recovery/healing
Why Does it Work?
Low level lasers are set at a frequency consistent with the frequency of all cells in the body. The laser penetrates the skin and projects light photons deep into your cells stimulating the cell mitochondria (often described as the “powerhouse” of a cell) to produce Adenosine TriPhosphate (ATP). ATP is known as the source of energy for every cell in the body. An increase in ATP results in increased cellular regeneration and communication. In this way, therapeutic laser:
- Heals damaged cells; LLLT helps sick or injured cells take in oxygen and nutrients at a level similar to that of a healthy cell, and it helps them release wastes and toxins.
- “Up-regulates” the function of normal, healthy cells.
What Conditions Can be Treated with Cold Laser Therapy?
The FDA has approved Low Level Laser Therapy for neck and shoulder pain, as well as low back pain and plantar fasciitis (heel pain). Therapeutic lasers are also safely used for treatment of conditions including, but not limited to, the following:
- Athletic injuries
- Back pain
- Bursitis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Inflammatory and scarring conditions
- Ligament sprains
- Migraine headaches
- Muscle strain
- Muscle/joint pains
- Post-operative pain
- Soft tissue injuries
- Sprains and strains
- Tendonitis
- Tennis elbow
Why You Should Try It
Therapeutic laser is highly recommended because it has the following characteristics:
- Easy to apply
- Extremely safe
- Non-toxic
- Non-invasive
- No adverse side effects - lasers do not damage skin, tissue, or muscle; there is no recovery needed
- Cost effective
- Highly effective in treating pain and injury (more than 90% efficacy)
- Treats the root cause rather than symptoms; safer than analgesics, NSAIDs, opioids and other medications
- Reduces the need for surgery
- Works synergistically with other modalities such as chiropractic care and physical therapy
FAQs About Therapeutic Laser
Cold Laser Therapy sessions are brief. Most treatments take approximately 3–5 minutes per area being treated.
Patients with acute pain conditions often begin noticing improvement within 3–6 visits. The exact number of treatments depends on the condition, severity, and overall care plan.
Cold Laser Therapy is designed to support inflammation reduction and pain reduction by stimulating the body’s natural healing response.
Patients experiencing acute pain commonly report measurable improvement within 3–6 visits. Many patients find that their relief lasts 12 months or longer, especially when treatment is part of a structured care plan that may include chiropractic adjustments or supportive therapies.
Individual results vary depending on diagnosis, duration of symptoms, and overall health.
Yes. When administered by a trained professional, Cold Laser Therapy is considered safe and non-invasive. The therapy uses controlled low-level light energy and does not damage tissue when applied properly.
Protective eyewear is provided during treatment as part of standard safety protocol.
Cold Laser Therapy is generally well tolerated. Most patients experience no significant side effects.
Because the therapy does not generate damaging heat and does not involve medication or injections, it is often chosen by patients seeking conservative, drug-free care.
Most patients feel little to no sensation during treatment. Some may notice a mild warmth or subtle tingling in the treated area.
The procedure is comfortable and does not cause pain.
Yes. Cold Laser Therapy can be provided as a standalone treatment or combined with chiropractic care, depending on your condition and treatment goals.
During your evaluation, we determine whether laser therapy alone or a combined approach would be most appropriate.
Insurance coverage varies by plan. Some policies may provide coverage when laser therapy is part of a broader chiropractic treatment plan.
Our office can help review your benefits and discuss your options.
Yes. Cold Laser Therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option used to support tissue healing and pain reduction.
For many patients with acute conditions, improvement is often noticed within 3–6 visits, and relief may last 12 months or longer when part of a structured conservative care plan.
Professional Cold Laser Therapy uses medical-grade equipment designed to deliver specific therapeutic wavelengths and power levels.
Consumer devices sold online may not provide the same clinical precision or treatment intensity used in a professional healthcare setting.
For optimal effectiveness, the treatment area is typically exposed so the laser light can be delivered directly to the targeted tissue. Cold Laser Therapy can penetrate a light layer of clothing if needed.
Certain medical conditions may require precaution or modification of treatment. A consultation and evaluation are performed before beginning care to determine if Cold Laser Therapy is appropriate for you.
Cold Laser Therapy can be used alongside chiropractic adjustments to support inflammation reduction and tissue recovery.
Patients with acute pain often notice improvement within 3–6 visits, and combining therapies may help extend results for 12 months or longer, depending on the condition and maintenance plan.