High-Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT) is a high-power, non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses specific wavelengths and energy parameters to deliver laser energy to deeper tissues, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissues surrounding the joints. Through photobiomodulatory, thermal, and photomechanical effects, HILT may help relieve pain, improve local circulation and inflammation-related responses, and support tissue repair. As the treatment does not involve surgery or skin penetration, it does not create a treatment wound and typically requires little to no recovery time.

Laser energy can be absorbed by specific cellular photoreceptors, influencing mitochondrial function and cellular energy metabolism while modulating physiological processes involved in tissue repair, inflammation, and cellular signaling. The thermal effects of HILT may increase local blood flow, promote muscle relaxation, and help reduce muscle spasm and pain. Laser energy may also contribute to pain relief by modulating peripheral nerve activity and pain signaling. Certain pulsed high-intensity laser protocols may also support local fluid circulation and help reduce tissue swelling.

Q1: Does HILT hurt? What does it feel like?

A: Not at all. You’ll only feel a soothing, comfortable warmth during the session. In fact, many patients find it so relaxing that they fall asleep while receiving treatment.

Q2: How often should I get HILT sessions?

A: If you are dealing with acute inflammation or sharp pain, we recommend daily sessions or 3 to 4 times a week to rapidly reduce swelling and calm inflammation.

For routine maintenance and muscle relaxation, once every 2 weeks or 1 to 2 times a month is usually ideal, depending on your physical activity levels and muscle stiffness.

Because everyone’s body is unique, the exact frequency should always be tailored to you after a personalized evaluation by your physiotherapist.