Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does the treatment hurt?
A: Not at all. Because we use "Super Pulsed" technology rather than a continuous beam of high heat, there is no risk of burning the skin. Most patients feel nothing at all, while some report a very slight, pleasant warmth or a mild "tingling" sensation as circulation increases in the area
Q: How many sessions will it take to feel better?
A: Many patients notice a decrease in pain after just 1 to 3 sessions due to the immediate anti-inflammatory effect. However, it is vital to understand that "feeling better" is not the same as "being healed." The full 12-session cycle is required to trigger the deep cellular changes and tissue remodeling shown in the clinical studies.
Q: Why do I need to come in 3 times a week?
A: PBM therapy is cumulative. Research shows that keeping the cells in a "stimulated state" with frequent sessions—rather than spacing them out—leads to much better functional outcomes and faster recovery. This frequency ensures your tissue is perfectly "primed" if you are receiving an upcoming regenerative injection (PRP or Prolotherapy).
Q: Is it safe?
A: Yes. This technology is Health Canada and FDA cleared. Unlike X-rays or UV light, PBM uses healing infrared and visible red light that does not damage DNA or tissue. The only requirement is that both you and the technician wear protective safety goggles (provided) to protect your eyes from the laser beam.
Q: How is this different from a "Heat Laser" (Class IV)?
A: High-power Class IV lasers often rely on heat to create an effect, but heat actually decreases how far light can travel into your body. Our Super Pulsed technology "punches" through the skin and fat layers without generating heat, delivering up to 6 times more healing light to deep tendons and joints than traditional high-heat lasers.
Q: Can I stop treatment if my pain goes away early?
A: We strongly advise against this. Stopping early is the most common reason for the return of symptoms. The "12-session dose" is based on the BMJ Open (2025) and other 10/10 PEDro-rated studies that prove this specific amount of light is what’s needed to lower inflammatory markers like TNF-α and PGE2 for the long term.
Q: Do I need to hold any medications (ie anti-inflammatories like NSAIDs) before or during the PBM treatment course?
A: No, there is no evidence that this should affect the outcome of your PBM treatment. If you are also getting prolotherapy or PRP injections alongside the PBM treatment, we do recommend stopping NSAIDs the week before the injection and as long as possible (ie up to 3 months) after it. You may desire to stop pain medications on your own volition as pain decreases and you are not feeling like you need them anymore as the PBM treatment progresses. If these are long term medications you have been on, follow up with Dr. Deschner to discuss if a medication wean is appropriate when the time feels right for you.
