We’re always looking to stay at the cutting edge of technology, particularly when it comes to offering clients the most effective options for pain relief. That’s why we’ve just invested in the LightForce XPi 25W Class IV therapeutic laser, the most advanced system currently used by a musculoskeletal clinic in Coventry.
What is Deep Tissue Laser Therapy?
Deep Tissue Laser Therapy (DTLT) is the evolution of traditional ‘cold’ laser therapy, which have been around since the 80s. While both approaches use therapeutic light, high-powered systems can reach deeper tissues than cold lasers.
DTLT uses specific wavelengths of therapeutic light to penetrate the cells of tissue – a process known as photobiomodulation. Research suggests this may help reduce pain, calm inflammation and support the body’s natural recovery processes. DTLT also shouldn’t be confused with shockwave therapy, which is an entirely different treatment modality we run.
If you’d be interested in learning more about the science, we cover the topic in more detail in our blog here.
Why a high-powered 25w laser
We use a high-powered 25W laser not because more power automatically means better results, but because it gives our clinicians more flexibility to tailor the therapeutic light dose to each injury.
What DTLT involves
DTLT using our LightForce system can be delivered using contact and non-contact techniques.
Contact treatment uses a roller-ball head that moves directly across the skin. This allows us to combine laser therapy with soft-tissue mobilisation, making HPLT a hands-on option.
Non-contact treatment follows a more conventional approach, with the laser aimed into the targeted area and applied without touching the skin.
Sessions are usually very quick – around 5 – 10 minutes – and can be incorporated into a wider treatment session. The number of sessions varies depending on the condition being treated and how you respond to treatment. When choosing between contact and non-contact, that’s something your clinician can help you decide.
What can Deep Tissue Laser Therapy help with?
DTLT is used for musculoskeletal and nerve related issues, including:
- Shoulder pain and rotator cuff-related problems
- Frozen shoulder
- Tendinopathies, including Achilles, patellar, rotator cuff and other persistent tendon problems
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Neck pain
- Lower back pain
- Sciatica and lumbar radicular pain, including nerve-related pain travelling from the lower back or buttock into the leg
- Cervical radicular pain / neck-related arm pain, including nerve-related pain or symptoms travelling from the neck into the shoulder, arm or hand
- Lateral elbow pain / tennis elbow
- Plantar heel pain / plantar fasciitis
- Sports injuries
DTLT isn’t always the most effective option, which is why we recommend always discussing your symptoms with a clinician first to decide whether it’s the right option for your treatment plan.
DTLT at Marsden Health
But remember, DTLT should always be used as part of a broader treatment plan. It can help with pain and inflammation, but its main role is to support rehabilitation rather than act as standalone treatment.
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