Dr. David DeFries
Arthritis means “inflammation of a joint.” The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis but there are over 100 different types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the "wear and tear" arthritis while rheumatoid is an autoimmune disorder whereby the body attacks itself and the joints are a primary target.
While the symptoms of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis respond well to High Power Laser Therapy, preventing additional discomfort and degeneration through education and conservative treatment must be integrated into care.
If a joint is painful or restricted it a symptom of a problem, not the problem itself. Degeneration happens when there is dysfunction within the joint complex which includes the bone, cartilage, muscles, lymphatics and nerves. Whenever possible, the cause of degeneration should be identified and reduced or the degeneration will continue leading to increased discomfort and reduced mobility. Faulty biomechanics (movement), nutitional, emotional and environmental stresses must be addressed in order to reduce the degeneration.
High Power Laser Therapy is an ideal modality for the treatment of the arthritic patient as it has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation.
| Region | Recommended Treatment |
| Entire Hand | Every day for three days then every other day until resolved |
| Wrist | Every other day for two weeks then maintenance therapies |
| Elbow | Every other day for two weeks then maintenance therapies |
| Shoulder | Every day for three days then every other day until resolved |
| Hip | Every other day for two weeks then maintenance therapies |
| Knee | Every day for three days then every other day until resolved |
| Ankle | Every other day for two weeks then maintenance therapies |
| Foot/Toes | Every other day for two weeks then maintenance therapies |
| Spine | Every other day for two weeks then maintenance therapies |
Depending on the condition and area treated, laser therapy is typically completed in ten minutes per session.While many patients experience a reduction of symptoms following the first or second treatment, chronic conditions typically call for ten to twelve treatments.
Additional treatment may also include joint mobilization, spinal manipulation, myofascial release, traction, distraction, electrotherapy, exercise therapy and nutritional as well as lifestyle education.
Laser therapy is not covered by any insurance.
Ready to begin feeling better? Click here to schedule online (easiest) or reach us by phone 610-494-0412