Podiatry Laser Therapy | Shellharbour Podiatry

Podiatry service

Light-based laser treatment for muscle, tendon and joint pain, used alongside your other care when it suits you.

About this service

Laser therapy

Photobiomodulation as part of an individual treatment plan

Laser therapy, also called photobiomodulation, uses red or near-infrared light. At our clinic we use a Class IV device with 810 nm and 980 nm wavelengths.

What to expect

Laser may be considered as an adjunct to other care after a podiatry assessment. Evidence, treatment protocols and individual response vary by condition, so benefit cannot be guaranteed. We will explain why it may or may not suit you, the alternatives, likely costs and what progress we will review.

Read a recent umbrella review of photobiomodulation evidence.

How we can help

When laser therapy may be considered

Laser therapy may be considered as an adjunct for selected musculoskeletal concerns after assessment. The evidence and treatment protocol are not the same for every condition.

Plantar heel pain
Selected tendon-related pain
Selected joint or soft-tissue presentations

Ask us whether an assessment is appropriate.

Straight answers

Frequently asked questions about Laser therapy

What should I expect in the first session of laser therapy?

Our podiatrists will discuss the suitability of laser therapy for your condition based on your medical history, a thorough biomechanical assessment and diagnosis. The podiatrist will use an applicator which emits the laser light, along the surface of the injured area. Each treatment area targeted will take around 5-10 minutes. We will also provide you with safety glasses which must be worn through the treatment to protect the eyes from damage.

How many sessions are needed?

The course of laser therapy can vary from 3-12 sessions with multiple sessions each week. The number of treatments will be determined by your podiatrist and will be based on the severity and chronicity of the injury, and your response to the treatment.

Does laser therapy hurt?

There is little to no sensation during treatment. Laser therapy can generate heat on the surface of the skin so you may feel mild warmth over the area targeted during the procedure.

Do you offer High Intensity Laser Therapy?

Yes. For patients with more persistent pain, chronic injuries or conditions that may benefit from a more advanced treatment, we also offer High Intensity Laser Therapy.

High Intensity Laser Therapy delivers greater energy to deeper tissues, making it an excellent option for a wide range of musculoskeletal and podiatric conditions. If you’re unsure which treatment is right for you, our podiatrists will assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate approach.

Learn more about High Intensity Laser Therapy

Related specialised option Shellharbour City

Could HIRO TT be relevant?

Laser therapies differ in delivery and dose. For selected persistent presentations, the Shellharbour City team can assess whether HIRO TT high-intensity laser has a reasonable role within a broader care plan.

Suitability, evidence and individual response vary. Assessment comes first, and laser would be an adjunct rather than a stand-alone replacement for diagnosis, load management, exercise or other appropriate care.

Explore HIRO TT laser View Shellharbour City clinic

Your next step

Ready to take the next step?

Book an appointment or contact the clinic if you would like help choosing where to begin.

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