Cold Laser Therapy for Post-Surgical Recovery
Cold Laser Therapy for Post-Surgical Recovery
Research suggests photobiomodulation may support your surgical recovery — alongside your surgeon’s plan, not instead of it
Does This Sound Familiar?
🦵 Post-Knee Replacement Recovery
What you might be feeling:
- Persistent swelling around the knee that does not seem to settle
- Stiffness that limits how far you can bend or straighten the leg
- Pain that interferes with your physiotherapy exercises
- Frustration with slow progress weeks after surgery
Knee replacement is one of the most common orthopaedic surgeries in Australia, with approximately 20,000 total knee replacements performed nationally each year. While the surgery itself may be successful, the rehabilitation phase can be challenging. Persistent swelling, stiffness, and pain in the weeks following surgery can make it difficult to participate fully in physiotherapy — and that participation is critical for a good outcome.
The Adelaide Cold Laser connection: A Level I randomised controlled trial (Bahrami et al. 2022, published in Arthroplasty Today, PMID: 36507283) found that patients receiving cold laser therapy after total knee arthroplasty achieved greater range of motion (116.8 vs 92.3 degrees at 3 months), less swelling, and consumed fewer opioid painkillers compared to a control group. A separate 2025 RCT (Chia et al., PMID: 39786308) found PBM significantly reduced swelling in the first week after knee replacement. Individual responses vary.
A proper assessment: If you have had a knee replacement and feel your recovery has plateaued, an assessment can help determine whether cold laser therapy may be appropriate alongside your existing rehabilitation programme. Your surgeon’s clearance is required before commencing treatment.
💪 Post-Shoulder Surgery Recovery
What you might be feeling:
- Shoulder pain that disrupts sleep, particularly when lying on the affected side
- Difficulty with basic tasks like getting dressed, reaching overhead, or washing your hair
- Slower progress than expected with post-operative exercises
- Concern about stiffness developing in the joint during recovery
Shoulder surgeries — including rotator cuff repairs, labral repairs, and shoulder stabilisations — often require an extended period of restricted movement followed by progressive rehabilitation. During this period, pain and swelling can limit your ability to participate in the exercises needed for recovery. Joint stiffness can develop if the inflammatory response is prolonged.
The Adelaide Cold Laser connection: A Cochrane systematic review (Page et al. 2016, PMID: 27283591) found low-quality evidence favouring cold laser therapy for rotator cuff conditions over placebo for up to three weeks. Preclinical research suggests photobiomodulation may help modulate the inflammatory response and support tissue repair in the post-surgical environment. Our clinical-grade device delivers three wavelengths, including a 905nm super-pulsed laser designed for deeper tissue penetration. Individual responses vary and the evidence for post-shoulder surgery specifically is still developing.
A proper assessment: If your shoulder surgeon has cleared you for adjunctive therapies and you feel your recovery has stalled, an assessment can help determine whether cold laser therapy may complement your rehabilitation. We always work alongside your surgical team’s recommendations.
🔧 Post-Spinal Surgery Recovery
What you might be feeling:
- Residual pain around the surgical site that persists beyond what you expected
- Stiffness and reduced mobility in the lower back or neck
- Reluctance to move freely for fear of disrupting the surgical repair
- Frustration with the pace of return to daily activities and work
Spinal surgeries — including laminectomies, discectomies, and fusions — involve delicate structures and typically require careful, staged rehabilitation. Post-operative pain and swelling around the surgical site can persist for weeks, and the recovery timeline for spinal procedures is often longer than patients anticipate. The gap between hospital discharge and full rehabilitation participation is where many patients feel under-supported.
The Adelaide Cold Laser connection: While the strongest post-surgical evidence for cold laser therapy comes from knee replacement studies, the underlying mechanism — supporting the body’s natural inflammatory response and cellular repair processes — is relevant across surgical recovery contexts. Research demonstrates that photobiomodulation may help modulate inflammation and support tissue repair at a cellular level (Hamblin 2018, PMID: 29164625; Leyane et al. 2021, PMID: 34681882). The evidence for spinal surgery specifically is limited, and individual responses vary.
A proper assessment: Spinal surgery recovery requires close coordination with your surgical team. If your surgeon has cleared you for complementary therapies, we can assess whether cold laser therapy may be suitable as part of your broader recovery plan.
🏃 General Orthopaedic Surgery Recovery
What you might be feeling:
- Swelling around the surgical site that is slow to resolve
- Pain that limits your ability to exercise or participate in rehabilitation
- Concerns about visible scarring from the incision
- Wanting to return to work, sport, or daily life sooner
Whether you have had an ACL reconstruction, carpal tunnel release, arthroscopy, or another orthopaedic procedure, the recovery process shares common challenges: managing swelling, reducing pain without over-relying on medication, and progressing through rehabilitation milestones.
The Adelaide Cold Laser connection: Research across multiple surgical contexts suggests photobiomodulation may support the recovery process. A systematic review and meta-analysis (Domah et al. 2020, PMID: 33058775, 17 RCTs, 1,064 participants) found laser therapy significantly reduced swelling at days 2 and 7 post-surgery. In vitro research on ACL fibroblasts found that laser light at specific wavelengths increased cell proliferation and collagen synthesis (Cardenas-Sandoval 2024, PMID: 39207591). A 2019 RCT found laser treatment improved surgical scar quality at 6 months (Pongcharoen 2019, PMID: 31462121). Individual responses vary.
A proper assessment: Recovery from orthopaedic surgery is individual. An assessment can help determine whether cold laser therapy may be a useful complement to your surgical team’s plan, based on your specific procedure, healing stage, and goals.
How Photobiomodulation May Help Post-Surgical Recovery
How It Works at the Cellular Level
When specific wavelengths of light are applied to tissue, the light energy is absorbed by an enzyme called cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria — the energy-producing components of your cells. This absorption triggers a cascade of cellular responses:
- Increased cellular energy (ATP) production — providing the fuel cells need for repair and regeneration
- Modulation of the inflammatory response — research suggests PBM may help shift the body’s inflammatory process from the acute phase toward the repair phase more efficiently (Hamblin 2018, PMID: 29164625)
- Enhanced cell migration and proliferation — fibroblasts (the cells that produce collagen and help rebuild tissue) and other repair cells may be stimulated to migrate to the surgical site (Leyane et al. 2021, PMID: 34681882)
- Support for new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) — improved blood supply to the healing area may help deliver oxygen and nutrients (Mokoena et al. 2018, PMID: 30343208)
What the Research Shows
- Reduced swelling after surgery: A 2025 RCT found PBM significantly reduced post-knee replacement swelling by day 6, and patients walked further in a 2-minute walk test (Chia et al. 2025, PMID: 39786308). A meta-analysis of 17 RCTs found significant swelling reduction at days 2 and 7 post-surgery (Domah et al. 2020, PMID: 33058775).
- Reduced opioid consumption: A Level I RCT found patients receiving cold laser after knee replacement consumed approximately 20% fewer opioid painkillers (48.3 vs 60.3 mg oxycodone equivalent) and reported greater pain reduction at 3 months (Bahrami et al. 2022, PMID: 36507283). A separate trial found significant morphine reduction at 48-72 hours post-TKA (Huang et al. 2022, PMID: 35459599).
- Improved range of motion: The same Level I RCT found the cold laser group achieved substantially better knee flexion at 3 months (116.8 vs 92.3 degrees, p<0.001), exceeding minimal clinically important differences (Bahrami et al. 2022).
- Support for wound and scar healing: A 21-expert international consensus confirmed PBM is effective for wound healing with faster re-epithelialisation (Maghfour et al. 2025, PMID: 40253006). A 2019 RCT on knee arthroplasty scars found significantly better scar scale scores at 6 months (Pongcharoen 2019, PMID: 31462121).
Limitations and What the Evidence Does Not Show
- Not all outcomes improved in every study. A 2025 RCT that found significant swelling reduction did not find significant differences in range of motion or pain scores (Chia et al. 2025). Results vary between studies and individuals.
- Most high-quality evidence is specific to knee replacement. While the underlying mechanisms are relevant across surgical contexts, large-scale clinical trials for other surgery types (shoulder, spine, ACL reconstruction) are limited.
- Adding cold laser to other physiotherapy modalities may not always provide additional benefit. A Cochrane review noted that combining LLLT with other physiotherapy produced “few additional benefits” over the other therapies alone (Page et al. 2016, PMID: 27283591).
- PBM does not replace post-surgical care. It is an adjunctive therapy designed to complement — not substitute for — your surgeon’s recommendations, physiotherapy programme, and medical follow-up.
Photobiomodulation is an adjunctive therapy used alongside standard post-surgical care. It does not replace your surgeon’s treatment plan, physiotherapy, or medical follow-up. Results vary between individuals and are not guaranteed. Always consult your surgeon before commencing any new treatment after surgery.
What the Research Shows
Key studies informing our approach to post-surgical recovery support. All citations are verifiable on PubMed.
LLLT After Total Knee Arthroplasty — Level I RCT
Three-arm RCT, 45 patients. LLLT group achieved higher ROM at all follow-ups to 3 months (116.8 vs 92.3 degrees, p<0.001), less swelling, greater pain reduction (VAS: 8.5 vs 6.0 points), and consumed fewer opioid painkillers (48.3 vs 60.3 mg oxycodone, p=0.02). Individual responses vary.
Bahrami et al. 2022 · Arthroplasty Today · PMID: 36507283
PBMT Reduces Swelling After TKA — 2025 RCT
RCT, 30 patients. PBMT group had significantly lower impedance/reactance/phase angle ratios by post-operative day 6 (reduced swelling) and walked 27m vs 16m in 2-minute walk test. No significant difference in active ROM or VAS pain scores between groups. Individual responses vary.
Chia et al. 2025 · Photobiomod Photomed Laser Surg · PMID: 39786308
21-Expert International Consensus on PBM Safety and Efficacy
Systematic review + Delphi consensus from 21-expert international panel. Adverse events have been rare in the published trials and red light PBM does not appear to induce DNA damage at therapeutic parameters. PBM confirmed effective for wound healing with faster re-epithelialisation. Individual responses vary.
Maghfour et al. 2025 · J Am Acad Dermatol · PMID: 40253006
“LLLT group had higher ROM at all follow-ups to 3 months (116.8 vs 92.3 degrees, p<0.001) … consumed fewer opioid painkillers (48.3 vs 60.3 mg oxycodone, p=0.02).”
Bahrami et al. 2022, Level I RCT published in Arthroplasty Today (PMID: 36507283). Individual responses vary.
Ready to explore cold laser therapy?
$99 initial consultation includes full assessment and first treatment session. No lock-in plans.
What to Expect
Initial Consultation — $99
Your first visit begins with a thorough assessment of your surgical history, current recovery stage, and goals. Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) will review:
- Your surgical procedure — what was done, when, and by whom
- Surgeon clearance — confirmation that your surgeon is comfortable with adjunctive therapies (we may request written clearance)
- Current recovery status — wound healing stage, range of motion, pain levels, swelling
- Rehabilitation programme — what physiotherapy and exercises you are currently doing
- Whether cold laser therapy is appropriate — not every post-surgical situation is suitable, and we will tell you if it is not the right fit
If cold laser therapy is appropriate, you will receive your first treatment at this visit. The clinical-grade super-pulsed laser device delivers three wavelengths simultaneously: 905nm super-pulsed laser for deeper tissues, 875nm infrared for intermediate depth, and 660nm red light for superficial tissue and wound healing support. Treatment is non-invasive — you may feel a mild warmth or nothing at all.
Ongoing care
Subsequent treatment sessions typically last 15-30 minutes depending on the surgical site and area being treated. The device is applied directly over the skin near the surgical area (over closed wounds only). You can generally return to your normal post-surgical activities afterwards.
Typical treatment schedule: Research protocols typically use 3-10 sessions in the acute post-operative period, followed by 2-3 sessions per week during the rehabilitation phase. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your surgery type, healing stage, and individual response. There are no lock-in plans — the decision is always yours.
Important Notes
- Surgeon clearance is required before we commence treatment. Your surgeon knows your surgery best.
- PBM complements your existing rehabilitation — it does not replace physiotherapy, prescribed exercises, or medical follow-up appointments.
- Treatment timing: Most research protocols commence PBM from day 1-2 post-surgery, once incisions are closed and coagulation is stable. Your surgeon will advise when your wound is ready.
- Safe with implants: Surgical implants (titanium, stainless steel, prosthetic components) are not a contraindication. The light wavelengths used in PBM are not absorbed by metals.
Location and Hours
528 Marion Road, Plympton Park SA 5038 — on the Marion Road commuter corridor. Morning and evening appointments accommodate patients returning to work after surgery.
- Monday to Friday: 7:00am – 7:00pm
- Saturday: 8:00am – 12:00pm
- Phone: (08) 8297 5277
Private pay only. We do not process health fund claims for cold laser services.
When to See Your GP or Surgeon Urgently
Post-surgical recovery requires close medical supervision. Contact your GP or surgeon immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Increasing redness, warmth, or discharge from the surgical wound — may indicate infection requiring urgent medical attention
- Fever above 38 degrees Celsius — a post-surgical fever can indicate infection or other complications
- Sudden severe pain that is markedly worse than your usual post-operative pain — could indicate a complication at the surgical site
- Swelling, pain, or tenderness in your calf (especially after lower limb surgery) — may indicate deep vein thrombosis, which requires urgent medical assessment
- Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain — may indicate a pulmonary embolism, which is a medical emergency — call 000
- Loss of sensation, new weakness, or inability to move a limb that was previously functional — may indicate nerve compression or vascular compromise
Cold laser therapy is a complementary approach and does not replace medical monitoring of your surgical recovery. If you are unsure whether a symptom is normal, err on the side of caution and contact your surgical team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cold laser therapy and how might it help after surgery?
Cold laser therapy — formally called photobiomodulation — uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with cells at a biological level. When applied to tissue near a surgical site, the light energy is absorbed by mitochondria (the energy-producing parts of your cells), which may trigger a cascade of cellular responses including reduced inflammation, increased cellular energy production, and enhanced tissue repair processes. Research suggests this may help manage post-surgical swelling, pain, and support the body’s natural recovery process. It is used alongside your surgeon’s plan and physiotherapy, not instead of them. Individual responses vary.
When can I start cold laser therapy after my surgery?
Timing depends on your specific surgery and surgeon’s recommendation. Most research protocols commenced cold laser therapy from day 1-2 post-surgery, once surgical incisions were closed and coagulation was stable. Some protocols have even included pre-operative treatment. However, your surgeon must confirm when your wound is ready for adjunctive therapies. We require surgeon clearance before commencing treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
Research protocols typically used 3-10 sessions in the acute post-operative period (daily or alternate days for 1-2 weeks), followed by 2-3 sessions per week during the rehabilitation phase for 4-8 weeks. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your surgery type, healing stage, and individual response. There are no lock-in plans — the decision about whether to continue is always yours.
Does it hurt?
No. Cold laser therapy is non-invasive. You may feel a mild warmth over the treatment area, or you may feel nothing at all. The device does not cut, burn, or heat tissue. There are no needles involved. Most patients find the experience comfortable and unremarkable.
Is cold laser therapy safe with my metal implant or prosthetic joint?
Yes. Surgical implants — including titanium, stainless steel plates, screws, wires, and prosthetic joint components — are not a contraindication for cold laser therapy. The light wavelengths used in photobiomodulation are not absorbed by metals; the light reflects off the implant surface and redirects through surrounding tissue. Multiple studies have used PBM successfully over joint replacements without adverse effects.
Are there any side effects?
No serious adverse events have been reported in any of the post-surgical clinical trials reviewed for this page. A 2025 international consensus statement from 21 experts confirmed that adverse events have been rare in the published trials and red light PBM does not appear to induce DNA damage at therapeutic parameters (Maghfour et al. 2025, PMID: 40253006). Individual responses vary.
Can I use cold laser therapy alongside my physiotherapy and medication?
Yes. PBM is designed to complement your existing rehabilitation programme, not replace it. A 2023 meta-analysis found that PBM combined with exercise provided additional improvements in knee pain and function compared to exercise alone in older adults (Li et al. 2023, PMID: 37419235). Cold laser therapy has no known drug interactions and can be used alongside your prescribed medications. Always inform all members of your healthcare team about any therapies you are receiving.
Is it safe if I am taking blood thinners or other medications?
Cold laser therapy has no known medication interactions. It is a light-based therapy that does not enter the bloodstream or interfere with drug metabolism. However, if you are taking photosensitising medications (some antibiotics, certain psychiatric medications), let us know at your initial consultation so we can adjust treatment parameters if needed. Always inform your treatment provider about all medications you are taking.
What does the strongest evidence show?
The strongest single piece of evidence is a Level I randomised controlled trial (Bahrami et al. 2022, PMID: 36507283) that found patients receiving cold laser therapy after total knee arthroplasty achieved greater range of motion, consumed approximately 20% fewer opioid painkillers, experienced less swelling, and had better functional scores compared to a control group at 3 months. A separate 2025 RCT confirmed significant swelling reduction in the first week post-TKA (Chia et al. 2025, PMID: 39786308). A 21-expert international consensus confirmed PBM is effective for wound healing (Maghfour et al. 2025, PMID: 40253006). Individual responses vary and results are not guaranteed.
Could cold laser therapy help me reduce my painkiller use after surgery?
Research suggests it may. Two separate trials found that patients receiving cold laser therapy after knee replacement consumed fewer opioid painkillers than control groups — one showed a 20% reduction in oxycodone consumption (Bahrami et al. 2022, PMID: 36507283), and another found significant morphine reduction at 48-72 hours (Huang et al. 2022, PMID: 35459599). This is of particular interest in Australia, where reducing unnecessary opioid consumption is a healthcare priority. However, never adjust your prescribed pain medication without consulting your surgeon or GP. Individual responses vary.
Does cold laser therapy actually speed up wound healing?
Research suggests PBM may support wound healing processes at a cellular level. A systematic review found significantly faster re-epithelialisation and better wound healing outcomes with laser treatment at 14 days post-surgery (Zhao et al. 2020, PMID: 32613416). A 2025 international expert consensus confirmed PBM is effective for wound healing with faster re-epithelialisation (Maghfour et al. 2025, PMID: 40253006). However, we are careful to say “may support” rather than making definitive healing claims, because individual responses vary and wound healing depends on many factors beyond any single therapy.
Will it help with my surgical scar?
Research suggests it may improve scar appearance. A 2019 RCT on knee arthroplasty scars found significantly better scar scale scores with laser treatment at 6 months, including improvements in vascularity, pliability, and scar height, though not pigmentation (Pongcharoen et al. 2019, PMID: 31462121). Research also indicates PBM may have anti-fibrotic properties that could reduce excessive scar tissue formation. However, scar outcomes are influenced by many factors including genetics, wound care, and surgical technique. Individual responses vary.
How much does it cost?
Your initial consultation is $99, which includes a thorough assessment and your first treatment if appropriate. Ongoing care options are discussed at your first visit. Private pay only. We do not process health fund claims for cold laser services. There are no lock-in plans and no treatment contracts.
Do I need a referral from my surgeon?
A formal referral is not required to book an appointment. However, we do require confirmation that your surgeon is comfortable with you receiving adjunctive therapies. This can be as simple as a verbal confirmation or a note from your surgical team. If there is any uncertainty, we will liaise with your surgeon’s rooms directly.
Can I come before or after my physio appointment?
Absolutely. Many post-surgical patients coordinate their cold laser and physiotherapy sessions. Some research suggests PBM may help you participate more effectively in physiotherapy by reducing pain and swelling beforehand (Li et al. 2023, PMID: 37419235). Our location on Marion Road and our extended hours (7am-7pm weekdays, 8am-12pm Saturdays) make it convenient to fit appointments around your rehabilitation schedule.
What device do you use?
We use a clinical-grade super-pulsed laser device. It delivers three wavelengths simultaneously: 905nm super-pulsed laser for deeper tissue penetration, 875nm broadband infrared, and 660nm visible red light for superficial tissue and wound support. This multi-wavelength approach means superficial and deeper tissues can be addressed in a single treatment. The 905nm super-pulsed technology delivers high peak power in nanosecond pulses, achieving therapeutic depth without thermal effect.
Ready to Explore Whether Cold Laser May Help Your Recovery?
Your initial consultation is $99 and includes a thorough assessment plus your first treatment if appropriate. Surgeon clearance required. No lock-in plans.
(08) 8297 5277 · 528 Marion Road, Plympton Park SA 5038
Questions? We’re here to help.
Call us on (08) 8297 5277 or book online — no obligation.
References
Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses
- Son et al. (2025). Umbrella review of PBM. Systematic Reviews. PMID: 40770824
- Maghfour et al. (2025). Evidence-based consensus on PBM. J Am Acad Dermatol. PMID: 40253006
- Zhao et al. (2020). LLLT periodontal surgery. Lasers Med Sci. PMID: 32613416
- Domah et al. (2020). LLLT after third molar surgery. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. PMID: 33058775
- Berni et al. (2023). LLLT in bone healing. Int J Mol Sci. PMID: 37108257
- Li et al. (2023). PBM on knee function. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. PMID: 37419235
- Page et al. (2016). Cochrane: electrotherapy rotator cuff. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. PMID: 27283591
- Wahid et al. (2024). LLLT post-mastectomy lymphoedema. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev. PMID: 39611899
Randomised Controlled Trials
- Bahrami et al. (2022). LLLT after TKA. Arthroplasty Today. PMID: 36507283
- Chia et al. (2025). PBMT swelling TKA. Photobiomod Photomed Laser Surg. PMID: 39786308
- Huang et al. (2022). Low-level laser acupuncture TKA. J Integr Med. PMID: 35459599
- Pongcharoen et al. (2019). 595nm PDL surgical scars. J Cosmet Laser Ther. PMID: 31462121
Mechanism Reviews
- Hamblin (2018). Mitochondrial redox signalling PBM. Photochem Photobiol. PMID: 29164625
- de Freitas & Hamblin (2016). Proposed PBM/LLLT mechanisms. IEEE J Sel Top Quantum Electron. PMID: 28070154
- Leyane et al. (2021). PBM in chronic wound repair. Int J Mol Sci. PMID: 34681882
- Mokoena et al. (2018). PBM and TGF-beta/Smad pathway. J Photochem Photobiol B. PMID: 30343208
Preclinical
- Kaneguchi et al. (2022). LLLT contracture ACL reconstruction. Physiol Res. PMID: 35616040
- Cardenas-Sandoval et al. (2024). LLLT ACL fibroblasts. Lasers Med Sci. PMID: 39207591
Protocols
- Vassao et al. (2020). Pre-conditioning + post-op PBMT for TKA. Photobiomod Photomed Laser Surg. PMID: 32186975
About This Page
| Entity | Type | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Post-surgical recovery | Medical condition context | Primary topic |
| Photobiomodulation | MedicalTherapy | Treatment modality |
| Total knee arthroplasty | MedicalProcedure | Primary surgical context |
| clinical-grade super-pulsed laser device | MedicalDevice | Treatment device |
| Dr Sam Johnson | Person (Chiropractor) | Practitioner |
| Adelaide Cold Laser | LocalBusiness | Practice |
| 528 Marion Road, Plympton Park SA 5038 | PostalAddress | Location |
This page provides general information about photobiomodulation (cold laser therapy) as a complementary approach to post-surgical recovery. It does not constitute medical advice. Photobiomodulation does not replace your surgeon’s treatment plan, post-operative physiotherapy, prescribed medication, or medical follow-up appointments. Always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions for your recovery. Individual responses to treatment vary, and outcomes are not guaranteed. If you experience any concerning symptoms after surgery, contact your surgeon or GP, or call 000 in an emergency. Content reviewed by Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor), 28 April 2026. All cited studies are verifiable on PubMed.