One such treatment is called cold laser therapy.

Cold laser therapy is also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT).

Verywell / Theresa Chiechi

What Is Cold Laser Therapy?

Cold laser therapy should not be confused withhigh-intensity laser that a surgeon may useto cut through tissues.

But not just any light will work for this healing process to occur.

Also, they should discuss with you the expected benefits and risks associated with cold laser therapy.

The light will be applied to your affected skin and injury site for about 30 to 60 seconds.

Is It Painful?

You should not experience pain during treatment, and no heat is generated by the light.

After treatment, you should also not feel pain or discomfort.

There is some research supporting the use of low-level lasers for back pain, neck pain, and tendonitis.

The studies did not show an increase in functional movement, however.

Another meta-analysis found that joint pain can be lessened with the use of cold laser therapy.

Again, no benefit was found of improving overall function in patients getting the treatment.

However, it may not be effective in improving function in musculoskeletal conditions.

(And maybe the placebo effect is at play with some studies.

Perhaps improvements in pain were found due to the patient gettinganysort of treatment for their condition.)

Have a discussion with your healthcare provider before starting any cold laser treatments for your condition.

Does Cold Laser Therapy Work?

Your therapist may use a variety of treatments, and one may be cold laser therapy.

Cold laser therapy is a painless procedure involving the introduction of light of specific wavelengths to injured tissues.

The light creates a photobiomodulation effect, increasing blood flow and speeding cellular processes to improve healing.

If you are injured, ask your physician if cold laser therapy is right for your specific condition.

A Word From Verywell

Experiencing chronic pain affects every area of life.

Thankfully, there are many different options to help reduce and manage pain.

Pain management is usually multifaceted, so talk to your healthcare provider about additional rehabilitation techniques.

Most people experience some relief after three to five sessions of cold laser therapy.

Some conditions require up to 20 treatments to achieve full effectiveness.

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