What is cold laser therapy? Cold laser therapy goes by many names, including low-level laser therapy, low-power laser therapy, biostimulation, and photobiomodulation. It’s called a ‘cold’ laser because the low-intensity light used for treatment doesn’t heat the body’s tissue cells. They are not the lasers used for surgery or to erase wrinkles (unfortunately!). The laser is applied to various points on the body, such as the ear (auricular therapy), hands, and wrist in a manner similar to that in which acupuncturists use needles. The light which is absorbed by the tissue, stimulates nerve endings, and triggers a physiological reaction to release endorphin, the body’s natural feel-good chemical.

What does the treatment feel like? During your treatment a cold, low-level laser is applied to acupuncture points mostly on your ears, hands, and wrists. The treatment is completely painless. You may feel nothing, or you may feel a tingling sensation on some points. Most clients feel completely relaxed and don’t be surprised if you fall asleep during the laser treatment — it’s that calming and relaxing.

Are there any health conditions for which laser therapy is not recommended? Yes. You would be excluded from receiving a laser treatment if you’re  pregnant, taking photosensitive medication or steroids, or have certain cancers or epilepsy. Also, if you have skin cancer on any of the places on your body we will be using the cold laser, please let us know. We can always work around these points to still have the treatment be effective. We recommend that you discuss laser therapy with your primary care physician or medical specialist if you’re currently undergoing chemotherapy and if you have specific concerns related to your medical health.

Are there any negative side effects of Cold Laser Therapy? There are no known negative side effects of Cold Laser Therapy

Will I need someone to accompany me for treatment? You’re more than welcome to invite someone to join you for your appointment, yet you don’t need to. This is a simple procedure that should allow you to resume normal daily activities once completed.

Do I need to prepare for the treatment?

We recommend you remove any earrings or nose rings (for the smoking cessation treatment) before your visit. If you forget, that’s OK. You can remove them at the office.

If you’re visiting for smoking cessation (stopping any form of nicotine, please read this a few days before your visit).

How much does this cost? It depends on the service. For quitting smoking, the cost of our treatment is $250.  Because quitting smoking may create anxiety for a new non-smoker, we also offer a no-charge second booster within thirty days from your initial treatment date. For the coaching and stress reduction treatments, those treatments are $125/session. You can see our fee schedule here.

Is the treatment covered by insurance? The treatment isn’t isn’t covered by insurance. If you find out from your insurance company otherwise, please let us know!

Is the treatment guaranteed? The treatment isn’t guaranteed. To support your success, if you find yourself in need of a follow-up session, we will book you a “booster” treatment at no additional cost for a period of 30 days from the original treatment date