At Sheddon Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic Burlington, we’re always striving to offer the most effective and innovative treatments to help our patients recover quickly and safely. One of the technologies we use to enhance healing is cold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT). This non-invasive and painless treatment has become a valuable tool in physiotherapy, supporting recovery from a wide range of injuries and conditions.
Cold laser therapy involves the use of low-intensity light to stimulate healing in the body’s tissues. Despite the name, the laser doesn’t actually feel cold; it simply doesn’t generate the heat that’s associated with higher-powered surgical lasers. Instead, it works by delivering light energy deep into the tissues, where it interacts with cells to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
The science behind cold laser therapy lies in a process called photobiomodulation. When the light penetrates the skin, it’s absorbed by the mitochondria—the energy centers of your cells. This stimulates a series of biological responses: increasing energy production (ATP), improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and enhancing tissue regeneration. These cellular changes can significantly accelerate the body’s natural healing processes.
Cold laser therapy has been shown to be effective for a wide variety of conditions. At Sheddon, we commonly use it to treat tendinopathies like tennis elbow or Achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, sprains and strains, and chronic joint pain such as osteoarthritis. It’s also helpful in managing neck and back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, post-surgical healing, and soft tissue injuries. Whether the pain is acute or chronic, cold laser can be a powerful complement to traditional physiotherapy techniques.
One of the key benefits of cold laser therapy is that it is non-invasive and drug-free. This makes it an excellent choice for patients who want to avoid medications or more aggressive procedures. The treatment is safe, gentle, and suitable for people of all ages and activity levels. Most patients experience no side effects, and many report a noticeable improvement in pain and mobility within just a few sessions.
Another major advantage is the potential to speed up healing. Because cold laser therapy enhances circulation and cellular repair, it can shorten recovery time after injury or surgery. For athletes or active individuals looking to return to sport quickly, this can be a game-changer. Even for those managing chronic pain, it can help reduce flare-ups and improve quality of life.
Patients also benefit from the way cold laser therapy fits into a larger physiotherapy treatment plan. It’s not meant to replace movement-based rehabilitation or manual therapy—but rather to support and enhance it. When combined with therapeutic exercise, soft tissue techniques, and education, cold laser can improve range of motion, reduce stiffness, and restore function more efficiently.
A typical cold laser session lasts anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the size and depth of the area being treated. The therapist will apply the laser directly to the skin using a handheld device. There’s no discomfort during the session, and you can return to your daily activities right away. The number of sessions required will vary based on your condition and treatment goals, but your physiotherapist will guide you through a personalized plan.
If you’ve been dealing with lingering pain, a stubborn injury, or just want to accelerate your recovery, cold laser therapy might be the right option for you. It’s especially useful for patients who have reached a plateau in their rehab or are sensitive to other treatment modalities.
At Sheddon Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic in Burlington, our team is trained and experienced in using cold laser therapy safely and effectively. We take the time to assess your condition, explain your treatment options, and develop a plan that fits your needs. Whether you’re an athlete, an office worker, or recovering from surgery, we’re here to support your journey to better health.
To learn more or book a consultation, give us a call today. Let’s work together to help you move better, feel better, and live pain-free.
