Laser therapy for orthopaedic symptoms

OrthoCoast also has a high-power laser with an output of up to 40 watts, sometimes called a high-level laser. The figure of 40 watts describes the device's maximum available power, not the setting used for every treatment. There is more to treatment than this number: the duration and area of application, the wavelength used by the device and how it is applied affect the dose delivered. The area being treated and your individual circumstances must also be considered. More power does not automatically mean more benefit. The appropriate application is guided by the treatment goal and the specific method, not by using the maximum power.

The answer depends on the condition and the method studied. For painful conditions affecting the plantar fascia on the sole of the foot, an American physical therapy guideline recommends low-level laser as part of a rehabilitation programme for short-term pain relief. This is a limited positive example, not a statement about every laser method or a lasting cure. High-power lasers are also being studied clinically. For certain shoulder symptoms, one study reported additional improvements when laser was combined with exercises. A more recent study alongside physiotherapy found differences favouring laser, but their size remained below the predefined threshold for a clinically meaningful improvement. Such results need to be considered with their limitations and do not establish the effectiveness of every device or a particular wattage. To help you decide, we discuss which findings apply to the proposed treatment, what you can realistically expect and what alternatives are available. What matters is whether something improves in your everyday life, not simply whether a laboratory value or other measurement changes.

We first want to understand what is likely to explain the pain. When does it occur, which movement is difficult, and what has previous treatment changed? Examination, the course of your symptoms and any existing findings help us assess these questions. An abnormal image alone is not a reason for laser treatment. A treatment goal should relate to your everyday life. You may want to manage a particular walking distance again or perform a painful movement more easily. Together, we clarify what change seems realistic and whether another treatment might be better suited to achieving it. You do not need to try every treatment on offer.

An additional treatment does not automatically replace treatment of the underlying condition. Depending on the findings, tailored exercises, changes to activity, physiotherapy, aids or medicines may be more important. The choice depends on what is sustaining your symptoms and what you can manage. If pain relief is achieved, it is understandable that you want to make use of it. However, less pain does not necessarily mean that a tissue can already tolerate every demand again. How to increase your activities sensibly is therefore part of the ongoing plan.

A simple comparison with your starting point is helpful: which movement is easier, how long does a change last, and what actually works better in everyday life? Symptoms that remain unchanged are also important feedback. If you are not moving closer to an agreed goal, further treatment should be discussed again. A course does not become worthwhile simply because some sessions have already taken place. Also clarify which activities are appropriate for your condition on the day of treatment and afterwards.