Helping you move more comfortably
At Victoria East Chiropractic Clinic, all of our chiropractors currently use K-Laser and ATPmax XT laser devices as part of individualized treatment plans for muscle, tendon and joint conditions. Class 4 laser therapy aims to reduce pain and improve movement, helping you return to everyday activities.
What is Class 4 laser therapy?
Class 4 therapeutic lasers deliver light energy to a targeted area of the body without needles or incisions. This treatment is often described as high-intensity laser therapy.
“Class 4” identifies the laser’s safety classification. Treatment results depend on the condition being treated, the wavelength and dose used, and the individual’s response—not simply the laser’s class.
What are the potential benefits?
Research suggests that high-intensity laser therapy may help some people experience:
- Less pain: Reduced discomfort associated with certain muscle, tendon and joint conditions.
- Improved movement: Better range of motion and less difficulty moving the affected area.
- Better daily function: Greater comfort with activities such as walking, reaching, lifting or exercising.
A review of clinical trials found improvements in pain and function across several musculoskeletal conditions. However, study quality and treatment methods varied, so benefits cannot be guaranteed. [1]
What conditions may be treated?
Following an assessment, laser therapy may be considered as part of care for:
- Neck pain: Including persistent neck discomfort and restricted movement.
- Low back pain: Certain types of ongoing back pain, alongside exercise and other appropriate care.
- Shoulder pain: Including some rotator cuff tendon conditions and frozen shoulder.
- Tennis elbow: Pain affecting the tendons on the outside of the elbow.
- Knee osteoarthritis: To help manage pain and difficulty with movement.
- Plantar fasciitis: Heel and arch pain associated with irritation of the plantar fascia.
Laser therapy is intended to help manage symptoms and support rehabilitation. It does not reverse arthritis or guarantee repair of damaged tissues.
How does it fit into chiropractic care?
Laser therapy may complement a treatment plan that includes exercise, activity advice, manual therapy and chiropractic treatment where appropriate.
Your chiropractor will assess your condition, discuss your goals and recommend whether laser therapy is a suitable option. We will monitor your response and adjust your care as needed.
What should I expect during treatment?
A clinician applies the laser handpiece to the treatment area using settings selected for your condition. You may feel warmth during treatment; tell your clinician immediately if it feels uncomfortable.
Protective laser eyewear and appropriate safety procedures are essential because Class 4 lasers can injure the eyes and skin if used improperly. [4]
The number and frequency of appointments depend on your condition and response. Your clinician will discuss the proposed treatment plan with you before starting.
Is laser therapy right for me?
Suitability begins with an assessment. Please tell your clinician about your medical conditions, medications, pregnancy, changes in skin sensation and any concerns involving the treatment area.
Contact Victoria East Chiropractic Clinic to book an assessment and discuss whether Class 4 laser therapy could be part of your care.
References
- Arroyo-Fernández R, et al. High-Intensity Laser Therapy for Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2023;12(4):1479.
Read the research - Alayat MSM, et al. Efficacy of high-intensity laser therapy in the treatment of chronic neck pain: a randomized double-blind placebo-control trial. Lasers in Medical Science. 2016;31:687–694.
Read the research - Kaydok E, et al. Short-term Efficacy Comparison of High-intensity and Low-intensity Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis: A Randomized Double-blind Clinical Study. Archives of Rheumatology. 2020;35(1):60–67.
Read the research - Health Canada. Laser products.
Read the safety information
