What is Laser Therapy?

Laser therapy uses focused light energy to penetrate tissue and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.  As light interacts with your body’s cells, it leads to an increase in cellular metabolism, improved circulation to injured tissue and pain relief.

Laser therapy may be incorporated into a physical therapy treatment plan to help reduce pain, decrease inflammation and promote tissue healing.  Treatment is noninvasive, drug-free and requires no downtime, making it an option for patients looking for additional pain relief while continuing their normal daily activities.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Laser Therapy?

Patients experiencing the following are good candidates for laser therapy:

  • Sprains and strains
  • Tendonitis and tendinopathy
  • Neck and back pain
  • Sciatica
  • TMJ
  • Joint pain
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Arthritis
  • Post surgical patients

Your physical therapist can evaluate your condition and determine whether laser is appropriate for you.

What Does It Feel Like?

Laser therapy treatments must be administered directly to skin, as clothing or topical dressings interfere with delivering light to tissues beneath the skin.  Patients will feel a soothing, comfortable warmth as the therapy is administered.  Treatment time for Class IV laser, such as the laser used at Momentum Physical Therapy, is 1-7 minutes per session based on the body parts and area treated.

How Many Treatments Do You Need?

Patients generally see results after 1 to 3 treatments, but average treatment duration is 8-12 sessions total based on your overall symptomatic picture.  Your therapist will develop a specific plan of care based on the diagnosis and the tissues that are involved.

How Does It Compare to Other Treatments?

  • Deeper Penetration & Faster Results- Unlike ultrasound or cold laser therapy, Class IV lasers reach deeper tissues for more effective pain relief and healing.
  • Alternative to Medications- Provides relief without the need for painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Complements Physical Therapy- Works alongside exercises and rehab programs to improve outcomes.

How Can I Get Started or Learn More?

To learn more and find out whether laser therapy may be right for you, call Momentum Physical Therapy Helotes at 210-372-9600.