MLS Laser Therapy for Pain Relief

What You Need to Know

Understanding how MLS Laser Therapy works and the conditions it can help treat.

Understanding MLS Laser Therapy

Cold laser therapy, or MLS (Multiwave Locked System) Laser Therapy, is an effective, noninvasive treatment option for patients with acute or chronic pain. It delivers light in two distinct wavelengths: an 808 nanometer wavelength that concentrates on reducing inflammation and edema, and a 905 nanometer wavelength that concentrates on pain reduction, producing an analgesic effect. Together, these wavelengths affect different pain pathways while minimizing thermal damage to the cells.

The dual action low energy laser light works at the cellular level, targeting the mitochondria. The mitochondria are the “power houses” of the cells, taking nutrients from the body and creating energy rich molecules that promote healing. The laser converts light energy into biomechanical energy, stimulating your body’s own healing mechanisms so it can fight pain and inflammation.

We use MLS Laser Therapy to aid healing for plantar fasciitis, chronic heel pain, Achilles tendonitis, and other tendon, ligament, and muscle injuries. It can also help with sprains, strains, stress fractures, arthritis, neuropathy, and post-operative discomfort, and may be used on non-infected wounds to encourage faster healing with less scarring.

Before beginning treatment, the doctor will consult with you to determine the right course of care. There are some contraindications, including pregnancy, and we want to make sure this therapy is right for you. If you are curious whether MLS Laser Therapy could help with your pain, we encourage you to schedule a consultation.

Benefits, Sessions, and What to Expect

MLS Laser Therapy is noninvasive, with no break in the skin. When using the robotic arm, the laser stays approximately 8 inches from the skin, so there is no downtime and no need to rest after a session. Many patients schedule appointments during their lunch break. The therapy is painless, and some patients even doze off during treatment. The laser also causes vasodilation, increasing blood flow so more of your body’s cells can migrate to the affected area.

MLS Laser has been on the market since 2009 with no known side effects, as long as you keep at least one day between sessions so cells can regenerate. It can be used alongside other therapies such as physical therapy, and the effect is additive. Many patients also use it to reduce their reliance on oral NSAIDs or post-operative pain medications.

Treatment frequency depends on your condition. Most acute injuries respond well with about 6 sessions, 2 to 3 times a week for 2 to 3 weeks. Chronic conditions typically call for around 12 sessions over 4 to 6 weeks, sometimes followed by a maintenance program. Most patients report reduced pain before their third treatment.

At your first visit, you will sign a consent form, watch a short introductory video, and have your questions answered. You will wear protective eyeglasses throughout, and the doctor and laser technician will remain in the room during treatment. Sessions typically last 10 to 30 minutes. Reach out to our team to see how MLS Laser Therapy fits into your recovery plan.