Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a common condition that affects millions of people, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Traditional treatments like pain medications, injections, and even surgery can be invasive or come with unwanted side effects. Fortunately, laser therapy offers a non-invasive, drug-free solution for managing knee osteoarthritis pain and promoting healing.
Understanding Osteoarthritis in the Knee
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage cushioning the knee joint wears down over time. This leads to bone-on-bone friction, inflammation, and discomfort. Common causes of OA include:
Aging – Cartilage naturally wears down as we get older.
Previous injuries – Past knee injuries can accelerate joint degeneration.
Obesity – Extra weight puts increased stress on the knee joints.
Repetitive stress – Activities that involve frequent kneeling, squatting, or running can contribute to OA development.
Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis:
Persistent knee pain and stiffness
Swelling around the joint
Decreased range of motion
A grating sensation or clicking sound when moving the knee
Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
What is Laser Therapy?
Class IV laser therapy, also known as high-powered laser therapy, is a cutting-edge treatment that uses low-level laser light to penetrate deep into tissues, stimulating cellular repair and reducing inflammation. This therapy, sometimes referred to as photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), enhances the body’s natural healing process by promoting blood flow and reducing pain signals from damaged tissues.
How Does Laser Therapy Help with Knee Osteoarthritis?
Laser therapy is particularly effective for reducing pain and inflammation while enhancing tissue healing. Here’s how it works:
1. Reduces Inflammation
Laser light helps decrease inflammatory chemicals in the knee joint, which reduces swelling and alleviates pain. This allows for improved joint movement and less stiffness.
2. Accelerates Tissue Healing
By stimulating mitochondrial activity in cells, laser therapy enhances the production of ATP (cellular energy), speeding up tissue repair and promoting the regeneration of damaged cartilage and soft tissue structures.
3. Improves Circulation
Enhanced blood flow to the knee joint helps deliver oxygen and nutrients while removing metabolic waste. This supports overall joint health and healing.
4. Reduces Pain Sensitivity
Laser therapy reduces nerve sensitivity by altering pain signal transmission. This provides immediate relief for many patients, even after just a few sessions.
What to Expect During a Laser Therapy Session
A typical laser therapy session for knee osteoarthritis is quick and painless, lasting between 5-15 minutes per knee. During treatment, a handheld laser device is applied to the affected area, delivering therapeutic light energy.
Patients often feel a gentle warmth but experience no discomfort. After a series of treatments, many report noticeable improvements in pain levels, mobility, and overall function.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
The number of sessions required depends on the severity of osteoarthritis and the individual’s response to treatment. Most patients undergo two to three treatments per week for 4-6 weeks, though some may experience relief sooner.
Who is a Good Candidate for Laser Therapy?
Laser therapy is an excellent option for individuals with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis who are looking for a non-invasive, drug-free approach to pain management. It is particularly beneficial for those who:
Want to avoid pain medications or injections
Are not ready for or cannot undergo knee replacement surgery
Experience stiffness and inflammation that limits daily activities
Have not found relief with traditional treatments
Combining Laser Therapy with Other Treatments
For optimal results, laser therapy can be combined with other conservative treatments, including:
Chiropractic care – Improves knee alignment and joint function.
Physical therapy – Strengthens surrounding muscles to support the knee joint.
Shockwave therapy – Stimulates tissue regeneration and reduces chronic pain.
Nutritional support – Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s help support joint health.
Weight management – Reducing excess weight decreases pressure on the knees and enhances treatment effectiveness.
Why Choose Boulder Sports Chiropractic for Laser Therapy?
At Boulder Sports Chiropractic, we specialize in Class IV laser therapy to help patients manage osteoarthritis and regain their active lifestyles. Our team tailors treatment plans to each individual, ensuring the best possible results for pain relief and knee function improvement.
If knee osteoarthritis is limiting your mobility and quality of life, laser therapy could be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
Don’t let knee pain hold you back. Contact Boulder Sports Chiropractic today to schedule a consultation and learn how laser therapy can help you get back to moving pain-free!