What does “Class IV” laser mean?+
Class IV is a laser safety/power classification, generally used for lasers above 500 mW. It does not by itself prove that a treatment works. High-power therapeutic lasers must be used with appropriate protocols and eye protection.
What is photobiomodulation?+
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is the use of red or near-infrared light to influence cellular activity. Proposed mechanisms include mitochondrial signaling and ATP production, with downstream effects on pain and inflammatory signaling. The clinical evidence varies substantially by condition and treatment protocol.
What is different about MLS laser therapy?+
MLS stands for Multiwave Locked System. The system synchronizes an 808 nm continuous emission with a 905 nm pulsed emission. Device literature describes complementary effects from the two wavelengths, while the clinical benefit still depends on the condition being treated.
Does MLS laser therapy hurt?+
Most patients experience little or no discomfort. Treatment is non-invasive and does not require needles or an incision. Protective eyewear is used because this is a high-power laser.
How long is each session?+
A treatment area commonly takes about 5–15 minutes. The exact time depends on the body area, diagnosis and treatment settings.
How many sessions will I need?+
Protocols vary. Many practices use approximately 6 sessions for acute problems and 10–12 for longer-standing conditions, but we individualize the course based on your diagnosis and response.
Can laser therapy replace surgery for arthritis?+
No. Laser therapy may help symptoms and function for some patients, but it does not restore severely damaged cartilage or correct structural problems that require surgery. We use it as one option within a broader orthopedic treatment plan.
Can MLS laser therapy be used with PRP or BMAC?+
Yes. It is one of the most common ways we use MLS. Sessions are scheduled around your injection to help with comfort and inflammation and to support your rehabilitation. Your plan is individualized to the diagnosis being treated.
Is MLS laser therapy FDA approved?+
Therapeutic laser devices are generally marketed through FDA 510(k) clearance rather than a drug-style “approval.” For example, FDA-cleared ASA 808/905 nm laser families have indications that include temporary relief of muscle and joint pain and stiffness, arthritis pain or muscle spasm, temporary increases in local circulation, and muscle relaxation. Clearance and indications vary by specific device model.
Does laser therapy reduce inflammation?+
It may. Laboratory and animal research consistently shows lower inflammatory markers such as PGE2, COX-2, IL-1β, and TNF-α, and small human trials show similar changes in some conditions. Human data are limited, so we use laser as one part of a plan, not as a replacement for diagnosis-specific treatment.
Can laser therapy help swelling?+
Possibly. Trials in lymphedema and small trials after joint replacement suggest less swelling, and animal studies show effects on lymphatic vessels. Elevation, compression, movement, and physical therapy remain the foundation for managing swelling.
What sets MLS apart from other therapy lasers?+
MLS synchronizes a continuous 808 nm wavelength with a pulsed 905 nm wavelength in one locked pulse, pairing anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Its robotic scanning head repeats the same dose over the same area at every visit, and the system has its own published randomized trials and laboratory research. It is FDA-cleared for temporary pain relief, arthritis pain, muscle spasm, and increasing local circulation.
Why do you combine MLS with PRP or BMAC?+
Because they work on different parts of the healing process. PRP and BMAC deliver concentrated growth factors and cells to the injured tissue, while MLS targets inflammation, pain, and local circulation around it. Laboratory research shows MLS can increase stem-cell growth at therapeutic doses, and animal studies show better cartilage preservation when laser and PRP are combined. We consider MLS an excellent adjunct to orthobiologic treatment. Individual results vary, and no treatment can guarantee a specific outcome.
Who should not have laser therapy?+
Laser is not applied over a known or suspected cancer, over the abdomen or low back during pregnancy, or over the thyroid. We take extra care with photosensitizing medications and areas with reduced sensation. Everyone in the room wears protective eyewear.
Is it covered by insurance?+
Coverage varies and many plans treat musculoskeletal laser therapy as a non-covered service. Our team will explain any patient cost before treatment.
