What is Cold Laser Therapy?
Cold laser therapy — clinically known as photobiomodulation (PBM) or low-level laser therapy (LLLT) — is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with tissues at the cellular level. Unlike surgical lasers, it does not cut, burn or heat tissue. Research suggests it may help reduce pain and improve function in various musculoskeletal conditions.
What is Cold Laser Therapy?
A plain-English guide to photobiomodulation — how it works, what the research says, and what to expect
📍 528 Marion Road, Plympton Park
How does cold laser therapy work?
Cold laser therapy delivers specific wavelengths of light into your tissues. This light energy is absorbed at the cellular level, primarily by the mitochondria, which may trigger biological responses that help manage pain and support tissue repair.
1. Light enters the tissue
The laser device is placed on or near the skin over the affected area. Specific wavelengths of light — typically in the red (640 nm) and near-infrared (875–905 nm) range — pass through the skin and into the underlying tissues. The depth of penetration depends on the wavelength, power and tissue type.
2. Cells absorb the light
Inside your cells, structures called mitochondria contain a molecule called cytochrome c oxidase. This molecule acts as a “photoacceptor” — it absorbs the light energy. Think of it like a solar panel inside each cell.
3. Cellular processes may be influenced
When cytochrome c oxidase absorbs light energy, research suggests this may:
- Increase the production of ATP (the energy currency of cells)
- Modulate reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide
- Influence inflammatory signalling pathways
- Support cellular repair and regeneration processes
4. Potential clinical effects
These cellular-level changes may translate to effects you can feel:
- Reduced pain at the treatment site
- Reduced inflammation
- Improved tissue healing
- Improved function and mobility
The term “photobiomodulation” literally means “modulating biology with light.” It describes the process of using light to influence biological activity at the cellular level.
Individual responses to photobiomodulation vary. The mechanisms described above are based on laboratory and clinical research. Not all potential effects occur in every individual or for every condition.
The science behind photobiomodulation
Photobiomodulation is supported by a growing body of peer-reviewed research, including systematic reviews, meta-analyses and a Cochrane review. The evidence base varies by condition, with some conditions having stronger support than others.
Key terms explained
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Photobiomodulation (PBM) | The current internationally accepted term for cold laser therapy |
| Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) | The older term, still used in much of the published research |
| Cold laser | A colloquial term — “cold” because it does not heat tissue like surgical lasers |
| Super-pulsed laser | A delivery method that uses very short, high-peak-power pulses to achieve deeper tissue penetration without thermal effects |
| Wavelength | The colour of light, measured in nanometres (nm). Different wavelengths penetrate to different depths |
| Dose / Joules | The amount of light energy delivered. Research shows that specific doses produce the strongest effects |
Dose matters
One of the most important findings in the photobiomodulation literature is that dose matters. Research has identified specific treatment parameters — wavelength, power, energy per point, treatment time — that produce the best clinical results. Using doses outside these windows may produce weaker or no effects.
This is why clinical-grade devices and evidence-based protocols are important. The World Association for Laser Therapy (WALT) has published recommended treatment parameters for specific conditions.
The evidence at a glance
| Condition | Evidence Level | Key Finding |
|---|---|---|
| Knee osteoarthritis | Strong (22 RCTs) | 31.87 mm VAS pain reduction at peak |
| Plantar fasciitis | Strong (18 RCTs) | Pain relief sustained up to 3 months |
| Tennis elbow | Moderate–Strong (12 RCTs) | Pain reduction and grip strength improvement |
| Frozen shoulder | Moderate (Cochrane) | 19-point pain reduction with exercise |
| Wound healing | Moderate (consensus) | Faster re-epithelialisation |
| Peripheral neuropathy | Moderate (consensus) | Expert-classified “effective treatment option” |
| Achilles tendinopathy | Limited (4 RCTs) | Some short-term pain benefit as adjunct |
All citations are listed on the relevant condition pages with full PMID references. Individual responses vary.
Our treatment device
We use a clinical-grade super-pulsed laser device designed for musculoskeletal conditions.
Three simultaneous wavelengths
905 nm super-pulsed laser
The primary therapeutic wavelength. Super-pulsed technology delivers extremely short bursts of high peak power followed by rest periods. This allows deep tissue penetration without thermal build-up on the skin surface.
875 nm infrared LEDs
Broadens the treatment field around the laser spot, delivering photon energy to a wider tissue area.
640 nm red LEDs
Targets superficial tissues including skin and structures close to the surface.
Why super-pulsed matters
Continuous-wave lasers deliver constant power, which limits how much energy can safely reach deep tissues before the skin surface heats up. Super-pulsed lasers solve this by delivering energy in bursts measured in billionths of a second. The tissue receives therapeutic energy at depth while the skin remains comfortable.
Conditions research suggests cold laser therapy may help
We only treat conditions where there is published evidence from peer-reviewed systematic reviews or randomised controlled trials. We do not make claims about conditions outside the musculoskeletal evidence base.
- Knee osteoarthritis — 22 RCTs
- Plantar fasciitis — 18 RCTs
- Frozen shoulder — Cochrane review
- Tennis elbow — 12 RCTs
- Achilles tendinopathy — 4 RCTs
- Post-surgical recovery — Expert consensus
- Peripheral neuropathy — Expert consensus
Each condition page includes the specific evidence, treatment approach and what to expect.
Individual responses vary. Not all conditions respond equally to photobiomodulation.
What to expect during treatment
Most people feel gentle warmth or nothing at all during treatment. It is non-invasive and requires no medication.
Step 1: Assessment
Your first visit ($99) begins with a thorough clinical assessment by Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor). This includes reviewing your history, examining the affected area and determining whether photobiomodulation is appropriate for your presentation. Not everyone who presents is a suitable candidate — and we will tell you if we believe another approach may be more appropriate.
Step 2: Treatment
The treatment device is applied to the affected area. The device is placed on or near the skin. You remain fully clothed (the treatment area needs to be accessible). There are no needles and no medication.
Step 3: After treatment
You can generally return to normal activities afterwards. Individual responses vary. Your practitioner will discuss what to expect during your assessment.
Step 4: Your plan
Based on the assessment findings, Dr Johnson will discuss whether treatment may be appropriate and outline what the evidence suggests for your condition. There are no lock-in plans. The decision is always yours.
Is cold laser therapy safe?
Adverse events associated with photobiomodulation across hundreds of clinical trials are rare and typically minor.
What the research shows
- Across 22 knee OA trials (1,063 participants): adverse events were not reported
- Across 18 plantar fasciitis trials: adverse events were not reported
- Across 19 frozen shoulder trials (Cochrane): adverse events were not reported
Contraindications
Cold laser therapy should not be applied:
- Directly over the eyes without appropriate protective eyewear
- Over the abdomen during pregnancy
- Directly over known active cancers or tumours
- Over the thyroid gland (unless specifically indicated and monitored)
Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) screens for contraindications as part of every initial assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does cold laser therapy actually work?
The evidence base is substantial for specific conditions. For knee osteoarthritis, 22 placebo-controlled trials involving over 1,000 participants found significant pain reductions. For plantar fasciitis, 18 RCTs showed similar results. A Cochrane review supports its use alongside exercise for frozen shoulder. That said, the evidence varies by condition, and individual responses vary. We only treat conditions where there is published peer-reviewed evidence.
What does the treatment feel like?
Most people feel gentle warmth or nothing at all. There is no snapping, no vibration. The device is placed on the skin and delivers light energy at the cellular level. Some people describe it as surprisingly uneventful — and that is exactly what it should be.
How is this different from infrared saunas or red light panels?
The key differences are wavelength specificity, power density and clinical parameters. Infrared saunas heat the body using broad-spectrum infrared. Red light panels deliver lower-powered light across a wide area. Clinical photobiomodulation uses specific wavelengths at specific doses targeted to specific tissues. The evidence supporting PBM for musculoskeletal conditions is based on these precise clinical parameters — not on general light exposure.
Is “cold laser” the same as “low-level laser therapy”?
Yes, they describe the same therapy. The internationally accepted scientific term is “photobiomodulation” (PBM). “Low-level laser therapy” (LLLT) is the older term still used in much of the published research. “Cold laser” is the colloquial term — “cold” because it does not heat or cut tissue like surgical lasers.
How much does cold laser therapy cost?
Your first visit at Adelaide Cold Laser is $99, including assessment and treatment where clinically appropriate. Standard appointments are $120. Private pay, no lock-in plans. The decision is always yours.
Why would I try this when my doctor has not recommended it?
Photobiomodulation is a relatively specialised modality that not all GPs are familiar with. The evidence base has grown significantly in recent years — the largest knee OA meta-analysis was published in 2019, and a major international consensus was published in 2025. You do not need a referral to book, and we are happy to communicate with your GP about your treatment if you would like.
Can I buy a laser device and do this at home?
Consumer devices are available but typically deliver far lower energy levels than clinical-grade equipment. Our clinical device delivers high peak power across multiple wavelengths simultaneously. Consumer products generally do not replicate the parameters used in the clinical trials. Additionally, clinical assessment ensures the treatment is appropriate for your specific condition.
Who is Dr Sam Johnson?
Dr Sam Johnson is a registered chiropractor with BSc(Chiro) and MChiro qualifications from Macquarie University. He delivers cold laser therapy as part of a clinical assessment — not as a standalone service without evaluation. The practice at 528 Marion Road has been operating since 1972.
What does ARTG-listed mean?
ARTG stands for Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods. An ARTG listing means a device has been assessed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration and meets the safety and quality standards required for use as a medical device in Australia.
Is cold laser therapy evidence-based?
For specific musculoskeletal conditions, yes. The evidence includes systematic reviews published in BMJ Open, Physical Therapy, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. An international Delphi consensus (2025) involving 21 experts established clinical practice guidelines. We only treat conditions where there is published evidence, and every claim on this website is supported by cited peer-reviewed research.
What wavelengths does your device use?
Our clinical device delivers three wavelengths simultaneously: 905 nm super-pulsed laser, 875 nm infrared LEDs and 640 nm red LEDs. This combination targets different tissue depths. The 905 nm super-pulsed component reaches deeper structures, while the 640 nm and 875 nm components address superficial and intermediate tissues.
How deep does the laser penetrate?
Penetration depth depends on wavelength, power, tissue type and skin pigmentation. The 905 nm super-pulsed laser can penetrate several centimetres into tissue — sufficient to reach joint capsules, tendons, ligaments and deeper musculoskeletal structures. Super-pulsed delivery allows higher peak power without thermal effects, which supports deeper penetration compared to continuous-wave devices.
References
- Stausholm MB et al. (2019). Efficacy of low-level laser therapy on pain and disability in knee osteoarthritis. BMJ Open, 9(10):e031142. PMID: 31662383
- Naterstad IF et al. (2022). Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in patients with lower extremity tendinopathy or plantar fasciitis. BMJ Open, 12(9):e059479. PMID: 36171024
- Page MJ et al. (2014). Electrotherapy modalities for adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder). Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2014(10):CD011324. PMID: 25271097
- Maghfour J et al. (2025). Evidence-based consensus on the clinical application of photobiomodulation. J Am Acad Dermatol, 93(2):429-443. PMID: 40253006
About Adelaide Cold Laser
Practice: Adelaide Cold Laser (ACL11 Cold Laser Pty Ltd)
Practitioner: Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor)
Qualifications: BSc(Chiro), MChiro — Macquarie University
Address: 528 Marion Road, Plympton Park SA 5038
Phone: (08) 8297 5277
Hours: Mon–Fri 7am–7pm (closed 12–2pm), Sat 8am–12pm
Last clinically reviewed: April 2026 by Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor)
The information on this website is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Photobiomodulation (cold laser therapy) is a complementary approach. Individual responses vary. All clinical claims are supported by peer-reviewed research. If you are unsure whether cold laser therapy is appropriate for your situation, please discuss with your treating health professional.