Cold Laser Therapy

intense shoulder pain
Also called Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), cold laser therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with tissue. It is thought to help speed up the healing process.

This modality can be used on patients suffering from different acute and chronic conditions to help reduce pain and inflammation and increase function.

Cold laser therapy is gaining popularity because it provides lasting pain relief, which can often help people get off their pain medication or avoid surgery. At Aligned Health PC, we’re pleased to offer this treatment to patients seeking a comfortable and effective way to ease their discomfort.

Who May Benefit?

Patients experiencing musculoskeletal pain from daily activities to auto accidents may find relief with cold laser therapy. Here are some conditions LLLT may help with:

  • Arthritis
  • Back pain
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Muscle spasms
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Knee discomfort
  • Chronic neck pain
  • Chronic shoulder pain
  • Sports injuries
  • Tendonitis
  • Chronic low back pain
  • Chronic heel pain from plantar fasciitis

What to Expect

During each session, a small handheld device is used. Different wavelengths and outputs of low-level light are applied directly to a targeted area, such as the knee or low back. The body tissue then absorbs the light, and the red and near-infrared light produces a cellular level reaction. The damaged cells respond with a physiological reaction that promotes regeneration.

Although you may feel the laser device touch your skin, the procedure is painless and noninvasive. You won’t hear any sound and you won’t feel any vibration or heat. Each treatment typically takes just a few minutes (5-15 minutes depending on the condition treated).

While you can wear clothing when having the treatment, it may bemore effective when the skin is exposed to the laser. Sometimes we have patients wear a gown to better expose problem areas, but it all depends on the injury we’re treating.

Common Questions

Does it hurt?

No, the treatment is gentle and painless, just like getting an X-ray doesn’t hurt.

Is it safe?

Yes. It even improves the safety of later interventions by reducing inflammatory barriers to corrective manipulations.

Do you provide this therapy instead of chiropractic care?

LLLT is an additional modality of care we offer. For example, someone coming in experiencing pain due to an auto accident we can start with cold laser therapy to help calm down the inflammation. Once the area is no longer inflamed or painful, we’re able to be more successful providing other modalities for treatment (like spinal manipulation & adjustments).

How soon will I notice an improvement in my symptoms?

It depends on the severity of your issue. Some patients experience improvement a few hours after their session, and others after 2-3 sessions.

Does insurance cover this service?

It may be covered. Please contact the office for more information.

Book an Appointment

Wondering if cold laser therapy could help you? Call us today to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors.
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Cold Laser Therapy Olympia, Lacey, Turmwater WA | (360) 352-3333