I first heard about cold laser chiropractic when I was frustrated, trying to find something to ease my chronic back pain. I’d tried physical therapy and painkillers, but nothing really worked long-term.
Then, my chiropractor mentioned cold laser therapy. Honestly, it sounded a bit out there. But, being tired of the pain, I gave it a shot and after a few sessions, I was surprised at how much better I felt.
Cold laser therapy is a non-invasive way to help your body heal using low-level lasers. What I love about it is that it relieves pain without the side effects of meds or the downtime surgery can bring. If you’re curious about how it works, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know!
Cold Laser Chiropractic
Cold laser chiropractic is a type of therapy in which chiropractors use low-level lasers (also known as cold lasers) to help reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing in the body. Unlike the high-powered lasers used in surgeries, cold lasers don’t cut or burn tissue. Instead, they emit low-level light penetrating the skin and stimulating the body’s cells to repair themselves more quickly.
This therapy is completely non-invasive and pain-free. It’s often used to treat conditions like back pain, arthritis, joint issues, and even soft tissue injuries. Chiropractors love it because it can target specific areas of pain or injury without needing any chiropractic adjustments, drugs or surgery, making it a safe option for long-term pain management. The best part? There’s no recovery time, so you can return to your routine after a session.
What Does Cold Laser Therapy Treat?
Cold laser therapy can treat a wide range of conditions, especially those involving pain and inflammation. Some of the most common issues it helps with include:
- Back and Neck Pain
- Arthritis
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Sports Injuries
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Neuropathy
- Joint Pain
- Tendonitis
- Bursitis
- Muscle Strains
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy uses low-wavelength red light to penetrate the skin and stimulate healing at the cellular level. It’s similar to cold laser therapy, which targets damaged tissues to reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing. Instead of using lasers, it relies on LED lights emitting red wavelengths.
The idea is that the red light boosts the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which helps cells repair and regenerate faster. It’s often used to treat skin issues, reduce inflammation, and improve blood circulation.
Red light therapy can be used for conditions like acne, wrinkles, and joint pain and even to speed up injury recovery. While it’s not as intense as laser therapy, it can still be quite effective for healing and pain relief.
Low Level Laser Therapy Vs Red Light Therapy
Here is a simple explanation of Photobiomodulation Vs Red Light Therapy.
| Feature | Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) | Red Light Therapy |
| Light Source | Focused laser light | LED light emitting red wavelengths |
| Wavelength | 600-1000 nanometers (depending on the treatment) | Around 600-700 nanometers (red light) |
| Penetration Depth | Deeper tissue penetration | Primarily surface-level |
| Precision | Highly targeted, ideal for localised issues | Broader covers larger areas |
| Common Uses | Deep tissue injuries, joint pain, muscle strains | Skin conditions (acne, wrinkles), general inflammation |
| Treatment Area | Smaller, more focused areas | Larger, less focused areas |
| Effectiveness | It is ideal for deep tissue problems like muscle or joint pain | Best for surface-level conditions like skin or mild inflammation |
Chiropractic Laser Therapy Cost As Per Session And Package
The cost of chiropractic laser therapy can vary depending on several factors, including the clinic’s location, the severity of your condition, and the number of sessions needed. It typically costs between $50 and $150 per session.
The cost also varies depending on which area of the body or condition the treatment will be focused on. The cost of common therapies focusing on different conditions include:
Laser Treatment For Back Pain Cost
- Cost per session: $100 to $200
- Package (5-8 sessions): $500 to $1,200
Deep Tissue Laser Therapy Cost
- Cost per session: $150 to $250
- Package (5-8 sessions): $750 to $1,800
Cost Of Laser Treatment For Knee Pain
- Cost per session: $100 to $200
- Package (5-8 sessions): $500 to $1,500
Plantar Fasciitis Laser Treatment Cost
- Cost per session: $75 to $150
- Package (5-6 sessions): $400 to $900
Neuropathy Laser Treatment Cost
- Cost per session: $100 to $200
- Package (5-8 sessions): $500 to $1,500
Can Laser Therapy Make Pain Worse?
While it’s uncommon, laser therapy can sometimes make pain worse, especially if not done correctly. Some people may feel temporary discomfort or extra sensitivity after a session, but this usually disappears in a day or two.
Here’s why it might happen:
- Inflammation Response: The body may temporarily increase inflammation before healing.
- Overstimulation: If the therapy is too strong or lasts too long, it could cause a short-term increase in pain.
- Pre-existing Conditions: In some cases, individuals with certain conditions (like nerve damage or severe tissue injury) may feel more intense sensations after the session.
However, this increase in pain is typically short-lived, and many people find relief after a few sessions. If the pain lasts or gets worse after the initial discomfort, it’s a good idea to talk to your chiropractor or doctor to make sure the treatment is right for you.
Conclusion
Cold laser chiropractic therapy has been a game-changer for my chronic pain, without the need for meds or surgery. It’s pain-free, non-invasive, and works well for issues like back pain and arthritis. The cost can vary, but it’s worth it for long-lasting relief.
If you’re wondering whether it’s covered by insurance or Medicare, it’s a good idea to check with your provider, as coverage can differ. While most people don’t feel pain during the treatment, some mild discomfort is normal and usually goes away quickly.
If you’re thinking about trying it, I say go for it! It’s made a big difference for me, and it could for you too.Visit the Health Horizon Guide for more helpful tips and information on alternative pain relief. Let’s take charge of our health together!
FAQs
Does Medicare Cover Cold Laser Therapy?
Medicare usually doesn’t cover cold laser therapy because it’s often seen as an experimental or alternative treatment. However, you can check with your provider or Medicare to see if there are any exceptions or updates to the policy.
Is Cold Laser Therapy Covered By Insurance?
Insurance coverage for cold laser therapy depends on your provider and plan. Some plans may cover it if it’s medically necessary, but many see it as an alternative treatment. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance company to see if it’s covered or if you must pay out of pocket.
Is Red Light Therapy The Same As Laser Therapy?
No, red light therapy and laser therapy are not the same, although they both use light to promote healing.
- Red light therapy uses LED lights with a broader wavelength (usually 600-700 nanometers) and is often used for surface-level conditions like skin issues.
- Laser therapy uses focused lasers that penetrate deeper into the tissues, making it ideal for treating deeper tissue problems like joint pain or muscle injuries. Both therapies have their benefits but differ in how they deliver light and treat conditions.
Does Laser Therapy Hurt?
No, laser therapy usually doesn’t hurt. Most people feel a mild warmth or tingling during treatment, but it’s painless like ultrasound chiropractic therapy. Some may have temporary discomfort or sensitivity afterwards, but it goes away within a few hours to a day. If the pain is severe, talk to your provider to ensure the treatment is right for you.
