Cold Laser Therapy Adelaide

What Does the Research Say?

The research below is published and peer-reviewed. Individual responses to treatment vary.

All care is provided subject to clinical assessment and individual suitability. Individual responses to treatment vary.

Cold Laser Therapy: Frequently Asked Questions

All care is provided subject to clinical assessment and individual suitability. Individual responses to treatment vary.

• What is cold laser therapy, and how does it work?

  Cold laser therapy, also called photobiomodulation (PBM) or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with cells. The light energy may influence cellular energy production (ATP synthesis) and modulate inflammatory responses. Unlike surgical lasers, cold lasers do not cut or burn tissue. The treatment is non-invasive.

• Is cold laser therapy safe?

  Cold laser therapy is non-invasive and generally well-tolerated. Treatment requires protective eyewear to shield the eyes from light exposure. Serious adverse events are rare when proper dosage and safety protocols are followed. Some patients may experience mild temporary skin redness or tingling, which typically resolves within minutes.

• What conditions does cold laser therapy help with?

  Research evidence exists for cold laser therapy in musculoskeletal conditions including neck pain, bursitis, tendinopathy, knee osteoarthritis, muscle strains, and plantar fasciitis. However, individual responses vary, and the evidence quality differs by condition. During your initial assessment, Dr Sam (Chiropractor) will discuss whether cold laser therapy may be appropriate for your specific situation and the relevant research evidence.

• How long does a cold laser session take?

  A typical cold laser session takes 10–20 minutes, depending on the treatment area and condition being addressed. The actual laser application time is usually 5–15 minutes, with assessment and discussion before and after treatment.

• Is cold laser therapy painful?

  Cold laser therapy is non-invasive, and most people find it comfortable. You may feel mild warmth or a gentle tingling sensation. You can return to normal activities immediately after your session.

• How many sessions will I need?

  The number of sessions needed varies depending on your condition and response to treatment. Dr Sam (Chiropractor) will discuss this during your initial assessment, and progress is reviewed at each visit.

• Can I use cold laser therapy alongside other treatments?

  Yes. Cold laser therapy may be used alongside other conservative management approaches such as chiropractic adjustment, physiotherapy, stretching, and ergonomic modifications. Dr Sam (Chiropractor) will advise on an appropriate treatment approach for your specific situation.

• How do I pay for cold laser therapy?

  Cold laser therapy sessions are paid at the time of your appointment. We accept cash, card, and EFTPOS. Your initial consultation is $99 and standard follow-up sessions are $120. No referral is required to book.

• Do I need a referral from my doctor?

  No. You do not need a doctor's referral to book a cold laser therapy consultation at Stapleton Chiropractic. However, if you have a complex medical history or are taking medications that may interact with light therapy, it's helpful to inform Dr Sam (Chiropractor) during your initial assessment.

• What is the device used at Stapleton Chiropractic?

  We use the Multi-Radiance MR5 ACTIV PRO, a professional-grade photobiomodulation device. It delivers super-pulsed laser energy, broadband infrared, and visible red light simultaneously.

• What should I expect at my first consultation?

  During your first visit, Dr Sam (Chiropractor) will assess your condition, review your medical history, and determine whether cold laser therapy may be appropriate for your situation. If suitable, you will receive a clear explanation of the proposed treatment approach, expected frequency, and costs. You will then have your first treatment session, which typically takes 10–20 minutes. Afterward, Dr Sam (Chiropractor) will discuss your response and any recommended follow-up. There is no lock-in commitment to ongoing treatment.

• What evidence supports cold laser therapy?

  Cold laser therapy for musculoskeletal conditions is supported by numerous peer-reviewed RCTs and systematic reviews published in journals such as The Lancet, the Australian Journal of Physiotherapy, Photomedicine & Laser Surgery, and Dose-Response. A 2009 Lancet systematic review by Chow et al. analysed 16 RCTs (n=820) and found that low-level laser therapy may reduce pain intensity in chronic neck pain. However, treatment outcomes depend on correct wavelength, power density, and dosage parameters. The World Association for Laser Therapy (WALT) publishes evidence-based dosage guidelines that inform our protocols.