Joint pain from arthritis, sciatica, or other musculoskeletal conditions can be debilitating. About 23% of American adults — that’s 54 million people — suffer from painful arthritis. It’s a leading reason people claim disability, and medical costs are in the billions. Likewise, back pain affects 80% of adults in the United States at some point in their lives and lessens economic output through lost work days.

MLS (multiwave locked system) laser therapy uses a special low-level light. It’s a relatively new treatment in the U.S., and it’s helping patients achieve relief from chronic pain. Practitioners in Europe and Asia have used low-level laser therapy for pain for more than 40 years; the U.S. Food and Drug Administration cleared this new approach to pain management in 2002.

How MLS therapy works to banish joint pain

MLS laser technology is considered a breakthrough in low-level laser light use, in which two different wavelengths of light operate simultaneously. Researchers believe that the wavelengths working together achieve two goals: reducing inflammation and blocking nerve pain at the site of your damaged joints from signalling your brain. They may also produce endorphins, which boost your mood and help reduce pain.

The laser’s energy causes a metabolic reaction in the cells. Its light energy promotes healing by opening up blood vessels and increasing circulation in the area where you have pain, reducing inflammation. Oxygen and other nutrients flood the joint, helping to repair damaged tissue at the cellular level. At the same time, it stimulates your lymphatic system, which reduces swelling in the affected joint.

Safe, noninvasive treatment

The MLS laser is a “cold” laser. It’s different from the lasers that produce heat and can burn skin if not used properly. The MLS laser doesn’t harm the skin, yet it can penetrate the deep tissue beneath your surface skin layer. It’s also noninvasive.

Effective in relieving pain

Research on MLS laser therapy for treatment of joint pain is still in its early stages, but it’s very promising. One review of 17 trials concluded that the therapy provides relief from chronic neck pain and helps patients recover from disabilities associated with it.

Another study found that patients’ low back pain improved significantly with laser therapy. A study on rheumatoid arthritis patients found that MLS laser therapy reduced pain by 70%, and another investigation found that it improved fibromyalgia pain.

Based on studies like these, researchers and practitioners alike believe laser therapy can be a valuable tool in clinical settings. From pain that has a nerve center, such as in your neck or lower back, to pain that is more diffuse, such as rheumatoid arthritis, MLS laser is a useful addition to available pain relief therapies.

Practitioners use MLS laser therapy for several joint and related musculoskeletal conditions:

  • Tendinitis
  • Bursitis
  • Muscle strains, sprains, and tears
  • Arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis
  • Herniated discs
  • Spinal compression
  • Sciatica
  • Foot conditions like plantar fasciitis and neuromas

MLS laser therapy may enable you to curtail or eliminate pain medication. Some pain medications can have serious side effects if you take them for too long, even resulting in organ damage.

If you’re suffering from joint pain, it’s time to explore MLS laser treatment. Call or book an appointment online with Springer Wellness and Restorative Health for the most advanced pain relief therapy available today.