Laser Therapy FAQ
It does not require the use of drugs or surgery, there are no known side effects, and it is quick/convenient. Studies have shown that it is equal to or more effective than other forms of physical therapy. These studies were performed at many prestigious institutions including Harvard University.
There is little or no sensation during treatment. There is no pain associated during laser application. Laser treatment is relaxing and some people even fall asleep.
The typical course of treatment is 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. Treatments are typically received 2 to 3 times a week. Treatment plans are determined on an individual basis.
This depends on the nature of the condition being treated. The typical treatment protocol is between 6 and 12 visits. Conditions such as severe arthritis may require ongoing periodic care to control pain.
You may feel improvement in your condition (usually pain reduction) after the 1 to 3 treatments. For some more chronic conditions it may take up to 6 visits to feel the benefits of laser therapy. Not everyone responds to laser therapy and results cannot be guaranteed.
MLS Laser Therapy is about healing. It's not about masking or covering up a condition. When you feel better from this therapy... it's because you are better. Therefore results have been found to be quite long lasting.
Yes, MLS Laser Therapy is sometimes more effective when combined with other forms of therapy, including physical therapy, chiropractic, massage, soft tissue mobilization, electrotherapy, and following surgery.
We will evaluate your condition and perform a complete laser therapy examination to determine if you are a candidate for this procedure. Call us to schedule your evaluation or a consultation with one of the doctors. Consultations are always at no cost to the patient.
Yes, laser therapy is a light treatment. No heating is involved with the surgical or metal implants. It can be used safely with no side effects. It is extremely effective for post-operative wound healing. Many hip and knee replacement patients see us for care.
Dry Needling FAQ
DN is a technique used to break up trigger points without the use of medications or injections. It works to reset the muscle into proper function and movement. It is NOT acupuncture, which is a practice based on traditional Chinese medicine to restore the body’s energy.
Tiny microfilament needles are used, which are only .25 mm thick.
DN should NOT be painful. There may be occasional stinging sensations as the needled is moved through the muscle. Involuntary twitching of the muscle is common, and although surprising, it only creates a slight ache.
DN works to release or inactivate a trigger point to relieve pain and improve range of motion. It can also speed up the recovery process from an injury. The process of DN also works to increase blood flow and regenerative cells to the area of treatment.
The needles are inserted directly into the trigger point and stimulates the muscle to relax.
DN is a safe and effective therapy in the hands of a skilled practitioner. People on blood thinners, those who are pregnancy or immunocompromised should are not always recommended to have DN. Common side effects include bruising, soreness, fatigue, and a feeling of heaviness in the area treated. The most severe, yet rare, side effect is a puncture of the lung (pneumothorax). This can cause shortness of breath that can last several days to weeks as the lung repairs itself.
This depends on the severity of the trigger point. Typically, patients need between 6-8 treatments for full healing. However, many people notice improvement even after the first treatment.
Common ailments DN had been shown to benefit include muscle tightness, sciatica, back & neck pain, headaches, shoulder & knee pain, carpal tunnel, whiplash symptoms, pelvic pain, muscle sprains/strains, and much more.
Acupuncture FAQ
When the needle is inserted, a light pinch is possible. Once all needles are in, most patients feel very relaxed and some even fall asleep.
Every person is different in the treatment protocol we use. Treatment depends on if the patient has a chronic or acute condition.
Wear loose clothing to allow access to the acupuncture points and have a snack shortly before the treatment.
Typically 30-60 minutes depending on the condition.
Cupping is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine used to help decrease pain. Cupping involves placing one or more cups on the person’s body. The most typical place is the back; however, cups can be applied at other places of the body such as the arms, legs, and even the face. The air inside of the cups is evaporated by heat which creates a suction effect. It is common for cupping to leave red marks from the suction, and light bruising may occur. Cupping promotes blood circulation to decrease pain.
Involves repeated strokes over lubricated skin with a smooth-edged tool to scrape the skin which increases circulation and promotes healing. This action causes light bruising which often appears red or purple spots. Gua Sha is most often used to relieve muscle and joint pain but can also be used for issues such as fever and treating colds.
Moxa is a form of heat therapy in which dried plant materials are burned on or very near the surface of the skin. The intention is to warm and invigorate the flow of Qi in the body and to get rid of pathogens that are inside of the body.
