Does Low Level Laser Therapy Really Work?

Low level laser therapy (LLLT)—sometimes called cold laser therapy—has gained attention for its potential to relieve pain and speed up recovery. But while it can help in some cases, it’s not always the most effective option.

At Oviedo Chiropractic, we use proven treatments that reach deeper and deliver lasting results, like high intensity laser therapy (HILT), also known as deep tissue laser therapy. Understanding the difference between these two therapies can help you choose the right approach for your recovery.

 

What Is Low Level Laser Therapy?

Low level laser therapy uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate healing in the body. When this light energy is absorbed by your cells, it increases mitochondrial activity—the process that produces energy inside the body’s cells.

That boost in energy helps damaged tissues repair faster, increases blood flow, and reduces inflammation.

 

Where Low Level Laser Therapy Works Best

Low level laser therapy can be beneficial for certain conditions, particularly those that affect the surface tissues of the body. Because it uses shorter wavelengths and lower power, the light energy only penetrates a few centimeters beneath the skin.

That makes LLLT effective for supporting skin healing, reducing superficial inflammation, and managing mild soft-tissue pain near the surface. It can help improve circulation, calm irritated tissues, and speed recovery after minor injuries or strain.

However, when pain originates from deeper structures—like joints, spinal discs, or large muscle groups—high intensity laser therapy (HILT) is often a better option.

What Is High Intensity Laser Therapy?

High intensity laser therapy—also known as deep tissue laser therapy—is a more advanced option that delivers higher power and longer wavelengths. These allow the light to reach deeper layers of tissue, stimulating healing where low level lasers can’t reach.

HILT triggers the same cellular response as LLLT—increasing ATP production and circulation while reducing inflammation. However, it’s able to reach muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints several centimeters beneath the surface, making it more effective for deep or long-term conditions.

HILT can be used to treat:

• Chronic back or neck pain
• Herniated discs and sciatica
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Chronic inflammation and muscle tightness
• Sports injuries and post-surgical recovery

Because it delivers more energy, HILT treatments are shorter, more efficient, and often produce faster, longer-lasting results than low level laser therapy.

 

When to Use Each Type of Laser Therapy

Both LLLT and HILT have value in modern chiropractic care. The right option depends on your condition, pain level, and how deep the affected tissue is.

Low level laser therapy may be right for:

• Superficial inflammation or skin-level injuries
• Mild sprains or strains
• Early-stage recovery after minor surgery
• Skincare, such as treating acne and wrinkles

High intensity laser therapy may be recommended for:

• Chronic back or neck pain
• Disc injuries or sciatica
• Muscle and joint pain that hasn’t improved with other treatments
• Deep or recurring inflammation

 

What to Expect During Treatment

Laser therapy sessions are safe, comfortable, and quick. After your chiropractor evaluates your condition, a handheld laser device is placed directly over the treatment area. Most patients feel a gentle, warming sensation, and each session lasts about 5 to 15 minutes.

There’s no downtime afterward, so you can return to your day immediately. For deeper or chronic issues, we often combine high intensity laser therapy with chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression therapy, or medical massage to enhance your results and support long-term healing.

Your Path to Lasting Relief

So, does low level laser therapy really work? Yes—especially for mild pain or surface-level injuries. But for deeper, chronic, or more complex conditions, high intensity laser therapy often provides faster, more effective results.

At Oviedo Chiropractic, we use laser technology to help our patients move comfortably, heal naturally, and live pain-free. Whether you’re dealing with lingering back pain or recovering from an injury, our goal is to find the right treatment plan for you.

If you’re curious about how laser therapy can support your recovery, contact Oviedo Chiropractic today to schedule your consultation.