In the next 5 minutes you’re going to know whether laser therapy is likely to be an effective treatment for your foot pain.
And sore feet can be a real pain in the…
Whether it’s that nagging heel pain when you first step out of bed or discomfort that lingers throughout the day, finding relief can feel like a never-ending battle. That’s where laser therapy comes in.
As one of the most advanced treatments in podiatry today, it offers a safe, non-invasive solution for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. But before you book your first session, here are five things you must know to get the most out of this treatment.
Laser Therapy Is Effective for a Range of Conditions
Laser therapy is a game-changer in podiatric care. It’s proven effective at treating a variety of painful foot and ankle conditions, including:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Ankle sprains and strains
- Forefoot bursitis
The science backs it up: clinical studies show that laser therapy can reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and promote tissue repair. Whether you’re managing an acute injury or dealing with a chronic condition, laser therapy offers a proven solution to help you get back on your feet.
How It Works: The Science Behind the Light
Laser therapy uses a technology called photobiomodulation (PBM). During treatment, our LightForce® XPi laser emits specific wavelengths of light (810/980 nm) that penetrate deep into your tissues with a power up to 25W. This light energy interacts with your cells in the following ways:
- It stimulates your cells to produce more ATP (your body’s energy source).
- It reduces inflammation and swelling.
- It accelerates the repair of damaged tissues.
In simple terms, laser therapy kick starts your body’s natural healing process. The result? For some this can mean returning to sports and an active life without complications medications and surgery.
What to Expect During Your Session
Laser therapy sessions are quick, convenient, and comfortable. Here’s what you can expect:
- Duration: Treatments typically last between 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the size and severity of the area being treated and are part of your podiatry session time.
- Sensation: Most patients report a soothing warmth during the procedure. Some even compare it to a relaxing “laser massage.”
- Results: While every client’s experience is different, many begin noticing improvements after just a few sessions. For chronic conditions, a longer course of treatment may be recommended to achieve optimal results.
The best part? Unlike shockwave therapy there’s no downtime, so you can get back to your day immediately after your appointment with no interruption to your training or rehab regimen.
It’s Part of a Comprehensive Approach
At Pride Podiatry, we know that no single treatment can do it all. That’s why we integrate laser therapy into a broader, evidence-based plan to address your unique needs. Your treatment plan may also include:
- Custom orthotics to provide better support.
- Strength exercises to improve resilience and prevent reinjury.
- Footwear recommendations tailored to your lifestyle.
By treating the root cause of your condition and not just the symptoms, we aim for long-term recovery and lasting relief.
Risks and Side Effects of Laser Therapy
One of the biggest benefits of laser therapy is its excellent safety profile. Side effects are rare, but it’s always good to know what to expect. Some clients may experience:
- Temporary redness or burning sensation in the treated area.
These effects are mild and typically subside quickly. However, it’s essential to consult with your podiatrist to ensure laser therapy is suitable for your specific condition. Certain factors, such as pregnancy or specific medications, may require additional consideration. Cancer, localised to the area is considered a definite contraindication as we do not want to increase the growth rate of any cancer cells nearby.
At Pride Podiatry, we’re committed to offering the most advanced, evidence-based treatments to help you feel your best.
Think laser therapy might be right for you? Book your session today and let’s create a personalised plan to get you back to doing what you love on your feet.
About the Author
Tim Mulholland is a podiatrist based in Melbourne CBD. He’s also a keen runner and someone who has struggled with overuse injuries in the past.
When not consulting, or teaching at La Trobe University you’ll find him running around Royal Park, cheering on the Cats, and socialising with friends.
References
- Enwemeka, C. S., Parker, J. C., Dowdy, D. S., Harkness, E. E., Sanford, L. E., & Woodruff, L. D. (2004). The efficacy of low-power lasers in tissue repair and pain control: A meta-analysis study. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 22(4), 323-329
- Karu, T. I. (1999). Primary and secondary mechanisms of action of visible to near-IR radiation on cells. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 49(1), 1-17.
- Chow, R. T., Johnson, M. I., Lopes-Martins, R. A., & Bjordal, J. M. (2009). Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the management of neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised placebo or active-treatment controlled trials. The Lancet, 374(9705), 1897-1908.
- Practical Pain Management (2010). The Treatment of Achilles Tendonitis Using Therapeutic Laser. Practical Pain Management.
- Naterstad IF, Joensen J, Bjordal JM, et al. (2022) Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in patients with lower extremity tendinopathy or plantar fasciitis: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. BMJ Open 2022
