Cold Laser Therapy: A Modern Tool for Faster Injury Recovery
Dr. Craig Kagetsu
BSc, DC, c.ART, CKTP — Clinic Director at Fairwood Chiropractic
What Cold Laser Therapy Actually Does
Cold laser therapy — also called Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation — uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate tissue and stimulate cellular activity. Unlike surgical lasers, cold lasers don't cut or burn tissue; they deliver energy that:
- Increases ATP production in injured cells, accelerating healing
- Reduces inflammation at the cellular level
- Improves circulation to the treated area
- Modulates pain signaling in nerve fibers
Conditions That Respond Well
We regularly use cold laser therapy at Fairwood Chiropractic to support recovery from:
- Soft tissue injuries (strains, sprains)
- Post-accident inflammation and bruising
- Joint pain (knee, shoulder, low back)
- Tendinopathies (tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, Achilles)
- Post-surgical recovery (with surgeon approval)
- Chronic pain that hasn't responded to other approaches
What a Treatment Looks Like
A cold laser session is quick, painless, and requires no downtime. The applicator is held over the treatment area for several minutes — most patients feel nothing or a mild warmth. Treatments are typically delivered in a series, layered into your overall chiropractic plan for compounding effect.
Real-World Results
One of our patients with significant post-accident injuries credited cold laser therapy as a particularly helpful piece of their recovery — calling it one of the best tools they'd used for their injuries.
Is Cold Laser Right for You?
Cold laser is a strong adjunct when:
- You're recovering from an acute soft tissue injury
- You have chronic inflammation that hasn't resolved
- You want to accelerate healing without medication
- You're looking to maximize results from chiropractic and massage care
Ask about cold laser therapy at your next visit to Fairwood Chiropractic in Renton, or call to schedule a consultation.