I. Introduction

 What Is Laser Therapy?

If you’ve ever received laser therapy during a therapeutic session at RolfPros, you may have wondered: How does laser therapy work? Why is it used in treatment? You may have heard terms like photobiomodulation, ATP, mitochondria, Class IV laser, and Krebs cycle. If these concepts sound unfamiliar, don’t worry—this article will break them down in a way that’s easy to understand and will serve as a guide to understanding how Laser Therapy works at RolfPros.

A Brief History of Laser Therapy

Laser treatment for pain has been used in medicine since the 1960s. It alleviates pain and inflammation through a process known as photobiomodulation. Over the years, advancements in laser technology have led to more powerful and effective treatments, offering relief for a variety of conditions.

II. How Laser Therapy Works

The Science Behind Laser Therapy

Laser therapy uses Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation (LASER) to penetrate deep into tissues and stimulate cells at a molecular level. This stimulation promotes cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and alleviates pain. By targeting affected areas, laser therapy encourages the body’s natural healing processes.

Photobiomodulation: The Key Mechanism

At the core of laser therapy is photobiomodulation, a process where light energy is absorbed by the mitochondria—the powerhouse of cells. This absorption enhances the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of cells. Increased ATP production helps speed up tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and improve cellular function.

Wavelength and Power: Why They Matter

Different lasers operate at specific wavelengths, which affect how deeply they penetrate tissues. Higher-power lasers, such as Class IV lasers, can reach deeper structures, making them particularly effective for treating musculoskeletal conditions.

III. Benefits of Laser Therapy

Pain Relief

Laser treatment for pain relief is common. In fact, laser therapy is widely used to manage chronic and acute pain conditions, such as:

• Arthritis

• Tendonitis

• Sciatica

• Neck and back pain

• Sports injuries

By reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair, laser therapy provides effective pain relief without the need for medication.

Accelerated Healing

Laser therapy enhances blood circulation and oxygen delivery to damaged tissues, which helps speed up the recovery process. This makes it particularly beneficial for post-surgical recovery and soft tissue injuries.

Reduced Inflammation

Inflammation is a common cause of pain and dysfunction. Laser therapy reduces inflammation by decreasing oxidative stress and increasing cellular metabolism, leading to faster recovery.

Improved Mobility and Function

By alleviating pain and promoting healing, laser therapy improves joint mobility and muscle function, allowing individuals to return to their daily activities with greater ease.

IV. Applications of Laser Therapy

Treating Musculoskeletal Conditions

Laser therapy is effective for various musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Joint pain – Arthritis, bursitis, and osteoarthritis

• Soft tissue injuries – Sprains, strains, and tendonitis

• Nerve pain – Neuropathy and sciatica

Enhancing Athletic Performance and Recovery

Many athletes use laser therapy to recover from injuries and enhance performance by reducing muscle fatigue and promoting tissue regeneration.

Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

Laser therapy is often used in post-surgical recovery to minimize scar tissue formation and accelerate healing.

V. Watch Laser Therapy in Action

For those interested in the science behind laser therapy, below is an excellent video by LiteCure® explaining how their laser technology works:

VI. Why RolfPros Uses LiteCure LightForce® Laser Therapy

Research-Backed Effectiveness

At RolfPros, we carefully selected LiteCure LightForce® Laser Therapy after extensive research, including studies conducted by the UCI Beckman Laser Institute & Medical Clinic, a globally recognized leader in photomedicine research.

The Difference Between LiteCure and Other Lasers

With the increasing popularity of laser therapy, many manufacturers claim to offer the best treatment options. However, LiteCure’s research has shown superior results, particularly for:

• Neuro-musculoskeletal pain relief
• Tissue repair and regeneration
• Biostimulation to enhance cell function

Unlike Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), which has been surrounded by misinformation and exaggerated claims, LiteCure’s Class IV laser technology offers deeper penetration and faster results.

VII. Conclusion

Laser Therapy as a Powerful Healing Tool

Laser therapy is a non-invasive, scientifically backed treatment that harnesses the body’s natural ability to heal. By stimulating cellular activity, it reduces inflammation, accelerates recovery, and alleviates pain.

Is Laser Therapy Right for You?

If you’re recovering from an injury, experiencing chronic pain, or looking for an alternative to medication, laser therapy at RolfPros could be an excellent option for you.

If you have questions about laser therapy or how it can benefit you, feel free to ask your therapist during your next session.

About RolfPros and Founder Fred Nehring

RolfPros was founded by Fred Nehring, a Certified Advanced Rolfer® and Holistic Health Practitioner (HHP), who has been dedicated to helping clients achieve lasting relief from pain and dysfunction since 2004. With a deep understanding of structural integration and holistic healing, Fred has assisted hundreds of clients in overcoming a wide range of conditions, from physical rehabilitation needs and sports injuries to chronic myofascial pain. His expertise spans multiple therapeutic modalities, including Rolfing®, LiteCure LightForce® Laser Therapy, and RockTape™ Kinesiology Taping, all of which work synergistically to promote optimal body function and recovery.

Fred’s approach goes beyond symptom management—he treats the whole person by focusing on the body’s connective tissue rather than just the muscles. Unlike traditional massage, physical therapy, or chiropractic care, which often concentrate on isolated muscle groups or joints, Fred works with the fascia, the intricate web of connective tissue that encases and supports the entire body. Fascia surrounds muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, and organs, playing a crucial role in maintaining structural integrity and movement efficiency. When restrictions or dysfunctions develop within this connective tissue network, they can lead to chronic pain, mobility issues, and poor posture.

Through Rolfing®, LiteCure LightForce® Laser Therapy, and RockTape™ Kinesiology Taping, Fred helps release dysfunctional patterns within the fascia, allowing the body to realign and function as a cohesive unit. By addressing the root cause of injuries and movement limitations rather than just alleviating symptoms, Fred enables his clients to experience lasting relief from chronic pain, enhanced mobility, and improved overall well-being. His comprehensive, hands-on approach helps the body discover new ways to organize and balance itself, leading to profound and sustainable healing outcomes.