Two cutting-edge, drug-free treatment modalities now available in Vaughan (Woodbridge), Ontario — used as part of an individualized rehabilitation plan.
Theralase is a dual-wavelength, super-pulsed low-level (cold) laser cleared by the U.S. FDA through the 510(k) pathway. Low-level laser therapy, also called photobiomodulation, is thought to act on cellular energy (ATP) production and nitric oxide signalling. Clinical research shows promising results for some conditions, such as certain neck pain and tendon presentations, although study quality and results vary.
Laboratory studies suggest low-level laser light may influence cell activity involved in tissue repair.
Proposed to support fibroblast activity and collagen formation; clinical evidence is still developing.
May help reduce pain and swelling in some musculoskeletal conditions, without medication.
Proposed to influence scar tissue formation; evidence in people is limited.
Thought to increase cellular energy (ATP) production, based mainly on laboratory research.
May cause temporary widening of blood vessels, increasing local blood flow.
Being studied for effects on nerve recovery; this has not been established in routine clinical practice.
Cleared through the U.S. FDA 510(k) pathway, which assesses a device's equivalence to existing devices rather than proving effectiveness for specific conditions.
No — Theralase uses a cold laser (also called a low-level or stimulating laser). It is designed not to heat tissue and is typically painless. Most patients feel little or nothing during treatment.
Low-level laser therapy is generally considered low-risk when used appropriately. Protective eyewear is required, and it is not applied over certain areas, such as the eyes, a pregnancy, or known or suspected cancer. Your practitioner will screen for these before treatment.
Research on low-level laser therapy is mixed. Some systematic reviews report short-term improvements in pain for conditions such as neck pain and some tendinopathies, while other studies show little benefit. We use it as one part of a plan built around exercise and active care, and we review whether it is helping.
Sessions typically range from 2 to 25 minutes depending on the condition being treated and the area of the body.
This depends on your specific condition and its severity. Most patients require between 5 and 25 sessions. Your practitioner will assess your needs and provide a personalized treatment plan.
Shockwave therapy (extracorporeal shockwave therapy, or ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that delivers acoustic pressure waves into tissue. Its strongest research support is for certain chronic tendon conditions, such as plantar heel pain and calcific shoulder tendinitis.
Laboratory and animal research suggests shockwaves may stimulate new blood vessel formation and repair processes in tendons.
May reduce pain in selected chronic tendon and soft tissue conditions.
Clinical trials support shockwave therapy for calcific tendinitis of the shoulder, where it can help reduce calcium deposits and pain.
Proposed to stimulate collagen production in tendon tissue, based mainly on laboratory research.
Sometimes used for tender muscle trigger points; evidence is limited and mixed.
Animal studies show new capillary formation after shockwave treatment; the clinical significance in people is still being studied.
A non-surgical option that may be considered for selected chronic tendon conditions when exercise-based care alone has not been enough.
Supported by randomized trials and systematic reviews for conditions such as chronic plantar heel pain and calcific shoulder tendinitis; evidence for other uses is still developing.
Acoustic waves are transmitted through a handheld applicator into the targeted tissue, which is thought to produce the following effects, based largely on laboratory and animal research:
Mechanical energy is converted into biochemical signals in cells, a process thought to influence tissue repair.
Animal research shows formation of new blood vessels in treated tissue.
May reduce pain signalling from local nerve fibres.
Most patients experience mild discomfort during treatment, particularly over sensitive areas. The intensity is fully adjustable and most patients tolerate sessions well. Any discomfort typically subsides immediately after treatment.
Shockwave therapy is non-invasive and generally well tolerated. Temporary redness, soreness or bruising can occur. It is not used in some situations, such as pregnancy, over growth plates, or with certain blood-clotting conditions, and your practitioner will screen for these.
The exact mechanisms are still being studied. Laboratory research suggests acoustic pressure waves may influence blood flow, collagen production and pain signalling in treated tissue.
Treatment sessions typically last between 10 and 20 minutes depending on the condition and area being treated.
A typical course is 3 to 6 sessions, and we reassess your progress along the way. The number of sessions varies with the nature and severity of your condition.
For conditions with good evidence, such as chronic plantar heel pain, studies show improvements that can last months or longer, particularly when combined with an exercise program. Results vary between individuals.
Book your appointment today and find out if Theralase Laser Therapy or Shockwave Therapy is right for you.
Schedule an AppointmentOr call us at 905-856-4444
