High Power Laser Therapy: A Drug-Free Approach to Chronic Pain
High-power laser therapy — also known as photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy (LLBT) — is one of the most exciting developments in non-pharmacological pain management. In our practice, we use the Avicenna high-power laser to treat a wide range of acute and chronic pain conditions, often achieving results that surprise patients who have tried everything else.
What Is Photobiomodulation?
Light at specific wavelengths (typically in the near-infrared range: 800–1100 nm) penetrates biological tissues and is absorbed by mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase — the enzyme that produces ATP (cellular energy). This photobiomodulation effect has several consequences:
- Increased ATP production (cellular energy)
- Reduced reactive oxygen species (less oxidative stress)
- Decreased inflammatory mediators
- Increased blood flow to treated tissues
- Promotion of nerve repair and axonal regeneration
The result is faster tissue healing, reduced inflammation, and pain relief — without medications, without needles, and without side effects.
High-Power vs. Low-Power Laser
The critical distinction: power output determines whether the laser can actually reach target tissues. Traditional "cold" laser devices use 1–5 milliwatts (mW) of power. The Avicenna laser delivers up to 25 watts (W) — several thousand times more power.
This allows treatment of deep structures (lumbar discs, hip joints, deep shoulder rotator cuff) that low-power devices simply cannot reach. The therapeutic effect at depth depends on delivering sufficient photon energy to the target tissue.
Conditions We Treat with Laser Therapy
- Lumbar disc herniations and nerve root pain
- Cervical disc disease and neck pain
- Knee and hip arthritis
- Rotator cuff tears and shoulder pain
- Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy
- Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Post-surgical pain and wound healing
- Muscle strains and trigger point pain
What a Treatment Feels Like
Laser therapy is completely painless — patients typically feel gentle warmth over the treated area. Each session lasts 10–20 minutes. Most conditions require 6–15 sessions depending on the chronicity and severity.
There are no side effects. Patients go home and resume normal activities immediately.
Combining Laser with Other Treatments
I often use high-power laser therapy as part of a multi-modal approach — combining it with targeted injections, PRP, or physical therapy. The laser reduces inflammation at the tissue level, which can enhance the effectiveness of other interventions.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
High-power laser therapy is currently self-pay at our practice — insurance coverage is limited. However, because it's a stand-alone treatment without needles, anesthesia, or recovery time, the cost is reasonable relative to its impact.
To discuss whether laser therapy is appropriate for your pain condition, call 516-492-3100.