Cold Laser Therapy
A non-invasive, drug-free therapy using low-level light energy to support tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain.
What Is Cold Laser Therapy?
Cold Laser Therapy, also known as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or Photobiomodulation Therapy, is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that uses specific wavelengths of low-intensity light to stimulate tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain.
Unlike surgical or high-heat lasers, cold lasers do not cut or burn tissue. Instead, they penetrate the skin gently and safely to reach the deeper cellular level.
At Lakeside Chiropractic, our chiropractor uses the MR5 ACTIV PRO LaserStim®, one of the most advanced therapeutic lasers available, which delivers targeted light energy combined with electrostimulation to support the body’s natural recovery process.
How Does Cold Laser Therapy Work?
When cold laser light is absorbed by your tissues, it triggers a biological process called photobiomodulation.
Photobiomodulation may lead to a cascade of healing effects at the cellular level. These effects may include:
- Stimulating ATP production, or cellular energy, to support tissue repair and regeneration
- Reducing inflammation by decreasing pro-inflammatory chemicals like prostaglandins
- Improving circulation and oxygenation, allowing damaged tissues to heal more efficiently
- Enhancing lymphatic drainage, reducing swelling and fluid build-up
- Modulating nerve activity, helping calm irritated or hypersensitive nerves that contribute to chronic pain
Laser therapy sessions are painless, relaxing, and typically last 5–10 minutes. Most people experience a mild warmth or tingling sensation during treatment, but there is no downtime.
Cold Laser Therapy May Be Used For
- Acute or chronic neck and back pain
- Sciatica or nerve entrapment syndromes
- Arthritis and joint degeneration
- Tendonitis, bursitis, and repetitive strain injuries
- Sports injuries, sprains, and muscle tears
- TMJ pain and headaches
- Plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and foot conditions
- Fibromyalgia and widespread myofascial pain
- Post-surgical recovery and scarred tissue management
Cold laser is often combined with other treatments like chiropractic care, exercise rehabilitation, soft tissue therapy, and dry needling for comprehensive care.
Relevant Research & Clinical Evidence
Cold laser therapy has been studied for musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, with evidence supporting its potential benefits in selected cases.
- A study on the efficacy of LLLT found that it significantly reduced pain in both acute and chronic neck pain with lasting results compared to placebo.
- A 2022 study demonstrated positive effects of LLLT on knee osteoarthritis, including improved range of motion and reduced swelling.
- Clinical evidence has also supported the use of LLLT in muscle repair and recovery after injury.
While results can vary between individuals, the therapy is considered low-risk and well-tolerated by most patient populations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about what cold laser therapy feels like, how many sessions may be needed, and how it fits into a broader treatment plan.
Explore Cold Laser Therapy Conditions
If you're curious about the conditions we may help treat with Cold Laser Therapy, visit our dedicated cold laser website to learn more.
