MLS Laser Therapy for Foot and Ankle

What You Need To Know

Learn how MLS Laser Therapy works and which conditions it can help treat.

Understanding MLS Laser Therapy

Cold laser therapy or MLS (Multiwave Locked System) Laser Therapy is an effective, noninvasive treatment option for patients who have acute pain or chronic pain conditions. MLS delivers light in two distinct wavelengths, 808 nanometers and 905 nanometers. The lower wavelength concentrates on reduction in inflammation and edema, and the higher one concentrates on pain reduction, resulting in an analgesic effect. The combination produces greater pain relief because the two wavelengths affect different pathways causing the pain.

The dual action low energy laser light works at the cellular level, targeting the mitochondria, considered the “power houses” of the cells. They take nutrients from our bodies and create energy rich molecules for the cell, and this activity in turn promotes healing. Laser light is also a powerful anti-inflammatory and can reduce swelling from edema, which helps relieve pain as soon as your first treatment session.

Our providers use cold laser therapy to aid healing for conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis, and other tendon, ligament, and muscle injuries. Whether you have a sprain, strain, broken bone, stress fracture, or chronic pain from arthritis, neuropathy, or post-operative discomfort, MLS Laser Therapy may be a good fit. It can also be used on non-infected wounds and incision sites to help them heal faster with less scarring.

If you are dealing with persistent foot or ankle pain, schedule a consultation so we can determine whether MLS Laser Therapy is right for you.

What To Expect From Treatment

MLS Laser Therapy is noninvasive, meaning there is no break in the skin or damage to the skin. When using the robotic arm, the laser stays approximately 8 inches away from the skin. Because it is noninvasive, there is no need to rest afterward, and you can schedule appointments during your lunch break so treatment doesn’t take extra time out of your day. Sessions are painless, and some of our patients even doze off during treatment.

The effects of your treatments increase over time as you have more sessions. Most patients report feeling a reduction in pain before their third session. We recommend between seven and 10 sessions to achieve optimal benefit, and the average treatment takes somewhere between 10 to 30 minutes. Most acute injuries respond well with 6 sessions, typically 2 to 3 times a week for 2 to 3 weeks. For chronic conditions, the recommended total is 12 sessions, with the option of a maintenance program once symptoms improve.

During your first visit, the doctor will consult with you to determine the right course of treatment. There are some contraindications, including pregnancy and pediatric patients, so we want to make sure this therapy is appropriate for you. You will sign a consent, watch a quick introductory video, and have your questions answered. Protective eyewear is required during treatment, and the doctor and laser technician will remain in the room the entire time.

Although MLS Laser Therapy is FDA cleared, it is not yet covered by insurance carriers. Our team will walk you through the plan and pricing so you can start care with confidence.