A Beginner’s Guide to Photobiomodulation (Laser) Therapy for Clinicians

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), also known as laser therapy, is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that uses red and near-infrared light to promote healing, reduce pain, and accelerate recovery. Increasingly used by physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, and podiatrists, PBMT is a clinically proven solution for musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries and chronic pain management.

In this beginner’s guide, we explain how laser therapy works, its benefits for patients, and what a typical treatment session involves.

How Photobiomodulation (Laser) Therapy Works

Laser therapy works by delivering specific wavelengths of red or near-infrared light to tissues, which penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular repair and regeneration. The light is absorbed by mitochondria – the “powerhouse” of the cell, triggering:

• Increased ATP production for faster tissue healing
• Improved circulation and oxygenation through nitric oxide release
• Activation of cellular signaling pathways via reactive oxygen species (ROS)

These effects reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair, and relieve pain – making PBMT ideal for musculoskeletal injuries, sports injuries, arthritis pain, and chronic joint conditions

Key Benefits of Photobiomodulation Therapy

Clinical evidence shows that PBMT provides significant benefits for patients with:

• Acute and chronic pain management (back pain, neck pain, joint pain)
• Sports injury rehabilitation and soft tissue healing
• Muscle pain, spasm, and stiffness
• Arthritis and osteoarthritis pain relief
• Plantar fasciitis and tendon injuries

With over 700 randomised controlled trials supporting its safety and efficacy, laser therapy for physiotherapists and clinicians is a reliable addition to modern practice

What a Typical Laser Therapy Session Looks Like

PBMT is safe, painless, and easy to administer. During a typical session:

1. Patients are positioned comfortably on a treatment table or chair
2. The LightForce® laser device is applied to the affected area
3. Treatment is delivered for 5–15 minutes depending on the condition
4. Patients may feel a gentle, soothing warmth
5. Most patients notice improvement after 3–5 sessions

Because it is non-invasive and drug-free, PBMT can be integrated seamlessly into physiotherapy, chiropractic, or podiatry treatment plans.

Who Can Benefit from Laser Therapy

PBMT is suitable for a wide range of patients:

• Athletes recovering from injuries or surgery
• Older adults managing arthritis or joint degeneration
• Chronic pain sufferers looking for alternatives to medication

Laser therapy is especially valuable for clinicians seeking evidence-based, non-invasive treatments for musculoskeletal conditions.

Why Choose LightForce® Laser Therapy

Enovis is a leading provider of therapeutic laser technology. Trusted by private practices, healthcare systems, and sports teams, our devices deliver precision dosing, custom treatment plans, and clinically supported results. By integrating LightForce® laser therapy into your practice, you can improve patient outcomes and satisfaction while differentiating your services.

Research and Professional Recognition

Photobiomodulation therapy has been extensively researched and is recognised by:

• World Association for Laser Therapy (WALT)
• American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• American College of Physicians (ACP)

With a robust evidence base, PBMT is a safe and effective treatment for musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain, and sports rehabilitation

Ready to Bring Laser Therapy to Your Clinic?

If you want to offer your patients faster recovery, reduced pain, and improved function, photobiomodulation therapy is a modern, clinically proven solution.

👉 Schedule a demonstration today to see how LightForce® can enhance your practice: Book by clicking HERE

🔗 Download our Laser Therapy E-Book for a deep-dive into the science: Download HERE

References:

1. Hamblin, M. R. (2016). Shining light on the head: photobiomodulation for brain disorders. BBA Clinical, 6, 113-124.
2. Hamblin, M. R. (2017). Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. AIMS Biophysics, 4(3), 337-361.
3. Karu TI. Low power laser therapy. In: Vo-Dinh T, editor. Biomedical Photonics Handbook. Boca Raton (FL) CRC Press; 2003: 48-1-48-25.
4. Hamblin MR, Demidova TN. Mechanisms of low level light therapy. Proc. of SPIE. 2006; 6140: 612001-1-12.
5. Chung H, Dai T, Sharma SK, Huang YY, Carroll JD, Hamblin MR. (2012), The nuts and bolts of low-level laser (light) therapy. Ann Biomed Eng. Feb;40(2):516-33.
6. de Freitas, L. F., & Hamblin, M. R. (2016). Photobiomodulation: partial coherent light as historic photon therapy. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 34(12), 496-499.
7. Hawkins, D., & Abrahamse, H. (2006). Effect of multiple exposures of low-level laser therapy on the cellular responses of wounded human skin fibroblasts. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 24(6), 705-714.