✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Thomas Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

MLS Laser Therapy: What It Is, How It Works & Who It Helps

MLS Laser Therapy: The Podiatrist’s Complete Guide

MLS (Multiwave Locked System) laser therapy is one of the most innovative treatment tools in modern podiatry — and one of the most misunderstood. Patients often come in wondering if “laser treatment” means cutting or burning. It’s actually the opposite: MLS laser uses synchronized light wavelengths to stimulate healing at the cellular level. Here’s a thorough explanation of what it does, who it’s for, and what the evidence says.

What Is MLS Laser Therapy?

MLS laser is a Class IV therapeutic laser system that delivers two synchronized wavelengths of near-infrared light (808nm and 905nm) simultaneously. The dual-wavelength system is the key innovation: the 808nm continuous wave provides an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect; the 905nm pulsed wave provides biostimulatory effects that promote tissue repair and regeneration. Used together, these waves penetrate 3-4 centimeters into tissue — deep enough to reach tendons, ligaments, and even superficial joints.

How Does It Work at the Cellular Level?

The laser light is absorbed by mitochondria (the energy-producing organelles in cells) and stimulates increased ATP production. This cellular energy boost accelerates the body’s natural repair processes: increased circulation to the area, reduced inflammatory mediators, enhanced lymphatic drainage (which reduces edema), stimulated nerve regeneration (particularly important for neuropathy), and accelerated tissue repair in tendons, ligaments, and skin.

Conditions MLS Laser Treats

Plantar fasciitis and heel pain: Multiple clinical studies show significant pain reduction and functional improvement, particularly in chronic cases. Works well in combination with shockwave therapy for severe cases.

Peripheral neuropathy: This is one of the most exciting applications. Studies show MLS laser promotes peripheral nerve regeneration and significantly reduces neuropathic pain in diabetic and idiopathic neuropathy patients. We’ve seen remarkable improvements in sensation and pain levels in our neuropathy patients.

Achilles tendonitis: Promotes collagen synthesis and reduces tendon inflammation. Particularly effective for insertional Achilles tendonitis combined with eccentric exercise protocols.

Post-surgical healing: Applied after bunion, ingrown nail, or other foot surgery, laser therapy significantly accelerates wound healing and reduces post-operative swelling.

Arthritis: Reduces joint inflammation and improves mobility in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis affecting the foot and ankle.

What a Treatment Session Feels Like

MLS laser treatment is completely painless — patients typically feel a gentle warming sensation in the treated area, or nothing at all. Each session takes 8-15 minutes. No anesthesia, no incisions, no recovery time. Patients can drive themselves to and from appointments and resume normal activities immediately. The recommended protocol is typically 6-12 sessions over 2-4 weeks, though some patients begin feeling improvement after 2-3 sessions.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Ideal candidates: patients with chronic plantar fasciitis who have tried conservative care, peripheral neuropathy patients seeking non-medication pain relief, anyone wanting to accelerate post-surgical healing, patients with Achilles tendonitis, and arthritis patients wanting to reduce joint inflammation. Contraindications: active cancer, pregnancy, and laser application over pacemakers or open growth plates in children.

Products Our Doctors Recommend

• Night Splints — complement laser therapy for PF
• Orthotics — maintain gains from laser treatment
• Browse All Products →

Interested in MLS laser therapy? We offer Cutting Edge Class IV MLS laser treatment at both our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is MLS laser therapy FDA-approved?

Yes. The MLS laser system is FDA-cleared for the temporary relief of minor muscle and joint pain, minor arthritis pain, relaxation of muscle spasms, temporary increase in local circulation, and temporary reduction of minor edema. Clinical use for specific conditions like neuropathy and plantar fasciitis is supported by published clinical research.

How many MLS laser sessions will I need?

Most protocols involve 6-12 sessions. Acute conditions may respond in 6 sessions; chronic conditions typically require the full 12-session protocol. Many patients continue with monthly maintenance sessions after the initial treatment course to maintain benefits, particularly for neuropathy and arthritis.

Does insurance cover MLS laser therapy?

Most insurance plans, including Medicare, currently classify therapeutic laser as investigational or experimental and don’t cover it. Out-of-pocket costs vary. Many patients find the investment worthwhile compared to ongoing medication costs and procedures. Ask about our package pricing for multi-session courses.

Can MLS laser really help nerve pain?

The evidence is compelling. Multiple peer-reviewed studies specifically on peripheral neuropathy show significant improvements in both pain levels and objective measures of nerve function (vibration threshold, monofilament sensitivity) following MLS laser treatment. For patients with moderate neuropathic pain who don’t want to add more medications, MLS is one of the most promising options available.

Is MLS laser safe for diabetic patients?

Yes — MLS laser is actually one of the safest and most beneficial treatments for diabetic patients. It promotes circulation, accelerates wound healing, and helps with neuropathic pain without systemic side effects. We use it regularly in our diabetic patient population with excellent safety and outcomes.

About the Author: Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatric surgeon and founder of Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, with locations in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. He has treated over 5,000 patients.

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Related Treatment Guides

• Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment
• Custom 3D Orthotics
• Sports Foot & Ankle Injury Treatment
• Bunion Treatment

Medical References & Sources

• American Podiatric Medical Association — Patient Education
• American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society — Foot Conditions

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Clinical References

1. Cotler HB, et al. “The use of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) for musculoskeletal pain.” MOJ Orthopedics & Rheumatology. 2015;2(5):00068.
2. Chow RT, et al. “Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the management of neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised placebo or active-treatment controlled trials.” The Lancet. 2009;374(9705):1897-1908.
3. Bjordal JM, et al. “A systematic review of low-level laser therapy with location-specific doses for pain from chronic joint disorders.” Australian Journal of Physiotherapy. 2003;49(2):107-116.