Before the session
No special preparation is needed. Wear clothing that makes it easy to uncover the area, since the light has to reach the skin. Tell your provider if you are pregnant, have a history of cancer, take medication that makes you sensitive to light, or have tattoos over the area. Dark ink absorbs more light.
During the session
- You and your provider put on protective eyewear.
- The handpiece is moved slowly over and around the area in a steady pattern.
- You feel mild, soothing warmth. Speak up if any spot feels too warm.
A session takes about 5 minutes.
Right afterward
You can go straight back to normal activities. Some people notice the area feels looser or less achy. Others feel no change until they have had several sessions. Occasionally symptoms flare briefly before settling.
How many sessions
Laser therapy is usually given as a series, with visits closer together at the start. Plan on 3 to 5 sessions before judging how you are responding. A single session is $65, or $300 for 5 and $550 for 10. Your provider reassesses as you go and stops treatment if it is not helping.
Can it be combined with other care?
Yes. It is often done in the same visit as a chiropractic adjustment or soft-tissue work.