MLS Laser Therapy Explained: How Light Helps Healing

Advancements in medical technology have revolutionized how we treat foot and ankle conditions, and MLS (Multiwave Locked System) Laser Therapy is one such innovation. This non-invasive, drug-free therapy harnesses specific wavelengths of light to accelerate healing, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. At Bellagio Foot & Ankle, we use MLS Laser Therapy as part of a comprehensive approach to restore foot and ankle health and improve patient quality of life.

What is MLS Laser Therapy?

MLS Laser Therapy is a therapeutic laser treatment that delivers synchronized wavelengths of light to injured or inflamed tissues. Unlike traditional lasers used in surgery, MLS Laser Therapy is designed for pain relief and tissue repair, not cutting or burning tissue.

Key features of MLS Laser Therapy:

• Dual-wavelength system: Combines two laser wavelengths to target inflammation and stimulate tissue repair simultaneously
• Non-invasive: Treatments are painless, with no needles or incisions
• Fast and safe: Most sessions last only 5–10 minutes and can be repeated as needed
• FDA-approved: Recognized for effectiveness in managing musculoskeletal pain and soft tissue injuries

The light energy penetrates deep into the tissues, promoting cellular metabolism, increasing blood flow, and reducing inflammatory chemicals. This creates an environment where the body can heal more efficiently.

How MLS Laser Therapy Works

The healing benefits of MLS Laser Therapy are based on photobiomodulation, a process in which cells absorb light energy and convert it into biological energy. The therapy works in several ways:

1. Reducing Inflammation
   Inflammation is a natural response to injury, but chronic inflammation can slow recovery and cause ongoing pain. MLS Laser Therapy decreases the production of inflammatory mediators, helping tissues calm and reducing swelling.
2. Stimulating Cellular Repair
   Light energy boosts mitochondrial activity, increasing cellular energy (ATP) and accelerating the repair of damaged tissues. This effect helps tendons, ligaments, and muscles recover more quickly.
3. Alleviating Pain
   MLS Laser Therapy reduces nerve sensitivity and blocks pain signals at the site of injury, providing relief without medications. Many patients report a decrease in pain after just a few sessions.
4. Enhancing Circulation
   The therapy improves blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the injured area, which supports tissue repair and reduces healing time.

Conditions MLS Laser Therapy Helps

MLS Laser Therapy is versatile and can be used to treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including:

1. Plantar Fasciitis

Chronic heel pain from plantar fasciitis can respond well to MLS Laser Therapy. By reducing inflammation and stimulating tissue repair, the therapy can decrease morning pain and improve mobility.

2. Achilles Tendinopathy

Patients with Achilles tendon injuries often experience pain and swelling at the back of the heel. MLS Laser Therapy helps accelerate tendon healing and reduce inflammation, complementing stretching and strengthening exercises.

3. Heel Spurs

Heel spurs often occur alongside plantar fasciitis. MLS Laser Therapy reduces pain and inflammation at the site of the bony growth, supporting overall foot comfort.

4. Bursitis

Inflamed bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints, can cause sharp pain in the heel or ankle. Laser therapy helps calm inflammation and supports tissue recovery.

5. Sprains and Strains

Ankle sprains or foot strains often respond well to MLS Laser Therapy. The therapy reduces swelling, accelerates healing, and allows patients to return to activity sooner.

6. Neuropathic Pain

Patients with nerve-related foot pain, including diabetic neuropathy, may benefit from the analgesic effects of MLS Laser Therapy, which can reduce discomfort and improve quality of life.

7. Post-Surgical Recovery

After foot or ankle surgery, MLS Laser Therapy can accelerate healing, reduce post-operative pain, and minimize scar tissue formation, supporting a smoother recovery.

What to Expect During Treatment

MLS Laser Therapy sessions are typically comfortable and relaxing.

• Preparation: The area to be treated is cleaned, and protective eyewear is provided
• Application: The laser handpiece is placed over the targeted area; patients may feel a mild warming sensation
• Duration: Each session usually lasts 5–10 minutes
• Frequency: Treatment plans vary depending on the condition, but many patients benefit from 2–3 sessions per week over several weeks

Because the therapy is non-invasive, there is no downtime, and most patients can resume normal activities immediately after treatment.

Typical Outcomes

Patients receiving MLS Laser Therapy at Bellagio Foot & Ankle often report:

• Reduced pain and tenderness after the first few sessions
• Improved range of motion and foot or ankle function
• Faster recovery from acute injuries or post-surgical healing
• Decreased inflammation and swelling in chronic conditions

While results vary depending on the severity of the condition and patient-specific factors, MLS Laser Therapy has been shown to enhance the body’s natural healing processes and often complements other treatments like physical therapy, orthotics, or medications.

Advantages of MLS Laser Therapy

MLS Laser Therapy offers several advantages over traditional treatment methods:

1. Non-invasive and drug-free – ideal for patients seeking alternatives to medications or injections
2. Minimal side effects – most patients experience no adverse effects
3. Pain relief and tissue repair simultaneously – reduces the need for multiple treatments
4. Quick sessions – convenient for busy schedules
5. Versatile applications – effective for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions

Who Should Consider MLS Laser Therapy?

MLS Laser Therapy is appropriate for many patients experiencing foot or ankle pain, especially those who:

• Have chronic conditions that have not responded to conventional treatments
• Want to reduce reliance on pain medications
• Are seeking non-invasive alternatives to injections or surgery
• Are recovering from foot or ankle surgery or injury

However, it may not be suitable for individuals with active infections, cancerous lesions at the treatment site, or certain medical conditions. A podiatrist at Bellagio Foot & Ankle will evaluate your health history and determine if MLS Laser Therapy is right for you.

Integrating MLS Laser Therapy Into Your Treatment Plan

MLS Laser Therapy is most effective when combined with a comprehensive foot care plan:

• Custom orthotics or supportive footwear to correct biomechanical issues
• Stretching and strengthening exercises for foot and ankle muscles
• Lifestyle modifications to reduce repetitive stress on the feet
• Physical therapy or rehabilitation to restore function and mobility

By integrating MLS Laser Therapy with these approaches, patients often achieve long-lasting relief and improved foot health.

Takeaway

MLS Laser Therapy is a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment for many foot and ankle conditions. By reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and stimulating tissue repair, it helps patients recover faster and return to their daily activities with greater comfort.

If you are experiencing heel pain, tendon injuries, bursitis, or post-surgical discomfort, MLS Laser Therapy may be the solution you’ve been seeking. At Bellagio Foot & Ankle, our podiatrists provide personalized treatment plans and guide patients through each step of recovery.

Don’t let foot or ankle pain slow you down—schedule a consultation today and discover how MLS Laser Therapy can help you heal.