Low Level Laser Therapy for Achilles Tendon Pain

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a Western form of treatment used internationally and supported by scientific literature, including research from Harvard University and NASA. As Professor Michael Hamblin of Harvard University notes, this treatment has been known for over forty years to reduce pain and inflammation, promote healing, and prevent tissue damage.

How Does LLLT Work?

LLLT aims to biostimulate cells in the body without heating or cutting tissue like high intensity lasers. Instead, it uses low powered wavelengths of light which:

• Are absorbed by injured cells
• Convert to biochemical energy
• Fuel tissue repair
• Have no adverse effects on normal-functioning cells

Laser therapy has been shown to stimulate the regeneration of:

• Bone
• Tendon
• Blood
• Blood vessel lining
• Cartilage
• Nerve muscle
• Post-operative scar tissue

Benefits for Achilles Pain

Low level laser therapy has the potential to powerfully reduce pain and inflammation, and promote healing of painful tissues in the foot and leg. For Achilles tendinopathy (or tendonitis), research by Stergioulas et al. found that LLLT "accelerates clinical recovery when added to an eccentric exercise regimen."

LLLT is used in conjunction with other therapies such as:

• Orthotics
• Rehabilitation exercises
• Other treatment modalities

Treatment Course and Safety

The number of treatments required varies based on:

• Severity of injury
• Response to rehabilitation
• Individual patient factors

Most patients require:

• Three to six treatments for typical cases
• Up to 15 treatments for chronic injuries

LLLT has no known side effects and is safe regardless of the number of sessions required. By treating the underlying problem, LLLT results in permanent pain relief and restoration of function.