How Lasers Help Heal Your Foot Problems

Laser therapy offers multiple benefits for both pain management and tissue healing, especially for patients with foot injuries like diabetic foot ulcers, tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis. Sometimes called low-level laser therapy (LLT), to differentiate it from surgical lasers, it penetrates superficial tissue layers without incisions to stimulate a cascade of healing events. 

At Forward Foot & Ankle in Midtown Manhattan and Staten Island, New York, our team offers laser treatments using the most advanced, state-of-the-art laser systems for optimal healing. In this post, learn how lasers promote tissue regeneration and reduce painful symptoms.

Reducing inflammation

Inflammation occurs in many injuries, including many foot injuries, causing pain and swelling that can interfere with everyday movements. Laser therapy helps reduce inflammation by stimulating anti-inflammatory factors and helping your body eliminate byproducts of inflammation, including fluid buildup. As inflammation resolves, natural healing responses are enhanced, relieving pain and improving range of motion.

Increasing energy production

LLT stimulates cellular metabolism, increasing energy production inside the tissues surrounding the injury. By boosting energy production within the cells, laser therapy helps repair damaged tissues while promoting new tissue growth and regeneration for faster and more intensive healing.

Improving circulation

Circulation is crucial in healing, bringing in oxygen and nutrients while eliminating toxic byproducts and excess fluids. Laser therapy improves circulation by stimulating the growth of new, tiny blood vessels at the site of injury, a process known as angiogenesis. At the same time, laser energy supports normal blood vessel function for optimal circulation and enhanced healing and recovery.

Triggering new tissue growth

LLT also supports healing by stimulating the proliferation of fibroblasts, special cells that promote connective tissue growth and play a key role in tissue healing. Connective tissue, in turn, helps wounds “knit together,” reducing the risk of infection while helping the area heal more quickly. Fibroblasts also comprise tendon tissue, one reason why LLT effectively treats tendon injuries.

Stimulating nerve function

Diabetes is a major cause of nerve damage in the feet, damage that can increase the risks of foot ulcers, infections, and even amputations. Laser treatment stimulates chemicals that help heal damaged nerves and even promote new nerve tissue. At the same time, laser energy optimizes normal nerve function to help counteract painful and potentially dangerous neuropathy while promoting normal sensation in the feet.

Boosting the immune system

By fighting off infections, your immune system is deeply involved in healing, including tissue healing. LLLT helps boost your immune system and ramp up immune responses, so your body is in a better position to prevent dangerous infections that can hamper healing and lead to gangrene or amputation. 

Multiple benefits, one system

It’s easy to list the benefits of LLT individually. Still, it’s important to note that all these processes happen simultaneously for enhanced healing responses and reductions in pain and inflammation. Plus, LLLT uses no incisions or anesthesia, helping you return to your normal routines without prolonged downtime.

To learn more about laser therapy and how it could help with your foot problems, call 718-317-5215 or book an appointment online with the Forward Foot & Ankle team today.