Cold laser therapy is a newer procedure with several advantages and disadvantages.
This article outlines some of the advantages, risks, and contraindications for cold laser therapy
Potential Cold Laser Therapy Advantages
Cold laser therapy is a non-invasive procedure, meaning that it does not require a surgical incision. This means that there is no prolonged recovery time.
Laser therapy also does not involve taking any medications, and many patients prefer to avoid taking medications. Studies have so far found that cold laser therapy does not have serious side effects when used properly by a doctor.
Read more about the advantages and disadvantages of Medications for Back Pain and Neck Pain
Potential Cold Laser Therapy Disadvantages
Cold laser therapy does have several disadvantages.
Patients do not typically get full relief or resolution from their pain symptoms after the first treatment. It takes a series of treatments, usually 8 to 30, depending on the severity and duration of the condition.
Patients often have to return to the doctor for treatments at least 2 to 4 times per week. Old injuries may be aggravated for a few days after treatments, but for most patients this sensation is short term, lasting for a couple of days.
Medicare and Medicaid do not cover cold laser therapy expenses. Some major medical insurance carriers do assist with payment and others do not cover any of the treatment.
Contraindications
Cold laser therapy should not be used over any suspicious cancerous lesions, or carcinoma, over the thyroid, on pregnant patients, and there should not be direct irradiation of the eyes, as the laser can cause permanent damage to the eyes.
Pregnant women are recommended not to undergo the procedure, since its effects on unborn children are not yet known. The doctor and the patient should use protective eyeglasses so that there is no direct eye exposure.
Summary
Cold laser therapy is one option among a variety of treatment approaches that can potentially provide pain relief or pain reduction, especially for patients seeking a treatment without the use of surgery or drugs.
It can be used alone or in combination with a number of other therapies.
While it is still a relatively new treatment option and there is incomplete information about its optimal treatment protocol, it is considered a viable treatment option for those seeking an alternative to invasive treatment.
Cold laser therapy is yet another method in the set of tools to help assist in pain relief, and it is considered a reasonable treatment option for certain types of pain by most health care professionals.
For further reading: Pain Management for Chronic Back Pain
FAQs
Cold laser therapy side effects may include bleeding, pain, infection, scarring, and skin color changes. These effects might not be permanent, however. If additional treatment sessions are needed, the side effects may return.
Does cold laser therapy really help? ›
Laser Therapy improves blood flow in muscles, ligaments, and joints while increasing circulation, helping flush toxins, speed recovery, and minimize muscle soreness. Cold laser treatments can improve performance while reducing recovery times.
What are the disadvantages of laser therapy? ›
Laser therapy can result in misdirected or excessively intense burns, bleeding from the choriocapillaris, damage to macular and other ocular structures, and breaks in Bruch's membrane.
How often should you do cold laser therapy? ›
The cold laser treatment therefore lasts a substantial period of time, and the results improve depending on the frequency of the visits. It's recommended that a patient receives the low level laser therapy care between 8-30 times in order to gain the highest level of satisfaction.
Who should not do laser treatment? ›
Who shouldn't have laser hair removal?
- Are pregnant.
- Are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments.
- Have genital herpes (HSV-2) or are prone to cold sores.
- Have keloid scars (raised scars).
- Have or have had skin cancer.
Cold shock response: Sudden immersion in water under 60 degrees can shock your body and lead to symptoms like rapidly increased breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. This can increase your risk of drowning if you're in deep water. The effect can also strain the heart.18.
Is cold laser therapy expensive? ›
Generally, the cost of cold laser therapy ranges from $50 to $150 per session, as treatment does require advanced technology and expertise. In addition to clinics charging different amounts for a single session, the number of sessions a patient needs will also vary.
Can you overuse cold laser? ›
There are no known cases of overdosing on therapeutic laser. This is among the safest treatments available, and we follow established and proven protocols.
Is cold laser FDA approved? ›
Cold laser therapy is an FDA approved therapy for treating soft tissue injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, rotator cuff injuries, ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, tennis elbow, and more.
When should you not use laser therapy? ›
Contraindications. Cold laser therapy should not be used over any suspicious cancerous lesions, or carcinoma, over the thyroid, on pregnant patients, and there should not be direct irradiation of the eyes, as the laser can cause permanent damage to the eyes.
Laser resurfacing can cause treated skin to become darker than it was before treatment (hyperpigmentation) or lighter (hypopigmentation). Permanent changes in skin color are more common in people with dark brown or Black skin. Talk with your doctor about which laser resurfacing technique reduces this risk. Scarring.
What is the risk associated with laser therapy? ›
Potential Risk Factors of Laser Therapy
Skin irritation or burns from exposure to the laser. Eye damage or vision loss from exposure to the laser. Increased risk of skin cancer with repeated exposure to the laser. Risk of infection if the laser is used to treat an open wound or infection.
Is cold laser worth it? ›
Does Cold Laser Therapy Work? There is some evidence that cold laser therapy helps decrease pain, but improvements in functional mobility are not typically seen with cold laser therapy as a standalone treatment.
Does cold laser therapy tighten skin? ›
This gentle laser treatment stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin in the skin to help smooth and tighten wrinkles and lines. It also kills bacteria and improves oxygen flow and energy within the skin to improve overall vibrancy and luster.
Does cold laser therapy reduce inflammation? ›
Laser light is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and can also reduce swelling from edema.
Can you overdo cold laser? ›
There are no known cases of overdosing on therapeutic laser. This is among the safest treatments available, and we follow established and proven protocols.
