What to Know About Cold Laser Therapy

If you're recovering from an injury or managing chronic pain, you may have heard of cold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT). This non-invasive treatment is gaining attention in physical therapy and rehabilitation settings for its potential to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing.

But is cold laser therapy effective? And who might benefit most from it? Here's what you need to know before booking a session.

What Is Cold Laser Therapy?

Cold laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-intensity light to stimulate healing in tissues just beneath the skin. Unlike high-powered lasers used in surgical procedures, cold lasers do not generate heat or cut through tissue.

Instead, a handheld device emitting light (usually in the 600–1,000 nanometer wavelength range) is placed against the skin for 30–60 seconds per area. The light energy is believed to stimulate mitochondria, encouraging cells to produce more adenosine triphosphate (ATP) your body’s cellular energy source. This process is known as photobiomodulation.

What Conditions Can Cold Laser Therapy Treat?

Cold laser therapy is commonly used by physical therapists, chiropractors, and sports medicine professionals to address a range of soft tissue and musculoskeletal issues, including:

• Tendonitis and tenosynovitis

• Ligament sprains and muscle strains

• Joint pain (including arthritis and frozen shoulder)

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Fibromyalgia-related discomfort

• Bursitis

• Back and neck pain

• Burns and minor wounds

Research is still developing, but there’s growing evidence that cold laser therapy can help reduce pain and inflammation though it may not improve overall functional mobility as a standalone treatment.

Pros and Cons of Cold Laser Therapy

Before beginning treatment, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits and limitations:

Pros:

• Painless and non-invasive

• Minimal to no side effects

• May reduce pain and inflammation

• Often used alongside physical therapy for a well-rounded approach

Cons:

• Requires multiple sessions to see results

• May not be covered by insurance

• Limited evidence of improvement in long-term function

• Some studies suggest outcomes may be comparable to placebo

According to a 2015 meta-analysis, cold laser therapy showed positive results in reducing low back pain, but did not significantly improve mobility or function. Similarly, a 2021 review of treatments for tendinopathy found low to moderate quality evidence supporting the use of cold laser therapy for short-term pain relief.

What to Expect During a Session

A typical cold laser therapy session takes just a few minutes. You’ll sit or lie in a comfortable position while your provider applies a small wand-like device to the skin over the treatment area. Both you and your provider may wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the light.

You should not feel pain or heat during the treatment. If you do, let your provider know immediately. The process is quick and does not require downtime, making it easy to fit into a larger physical therapy program.

Does It Actually Work?

Cold laser therapy may be helpful if you're looking for a non-drug, non-surgical option to reduce pain and inflammation. While studies show some promise for pain relief, research is less clear about its ability to improve range of motion or physical function.

That said, cold laser therapy is often best used as part of a broader rehabilitation plan that includes stretching, strength-building exercises, and other therapies tailored to your injury or condition.

Is Cold Laser Therapy Right for You?

If you're managing a chronic condition like tendonitis or recovering from a recent injury, ask your healthcare provider if cold laser therapy could support your recovery. It may be especially useful if:

• You're seeking alternatives to medication

• You want a pain-free, non-invasive treatment option

• Other therapies haven’t provided full relief

Avoid cold laser therapy if you are pregnant, have active cancer, or are taking medications that increase light sensitivity your provider should screen for these factors before beginning treatment.

The Bottom Line

Cold laser therapy offers a painless, drug-free way to potentially reduce pain and inflammation from soft tissue injuries. While the research remains mixed especially around long-term functional improvements many people find it a helpful part of a larger rehab strategy.

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