MLS (Multiwave Locked System) laser therapy is a FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that uses synchronized dual-wavelength light energy to reduce pain, accelerate tissue healing, and decrease inflammation in foot and ankle conditions. At Balance Foot & Ankle in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM has integrated MLS laser therapy into clinical practice as a highly effective adjunct for conditions ranging from plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy to peripheral neuropathy and toenail fungus — allowing many patients to avoid cortisone injections, oral medications, or surgery when laser therapy is initiated at the appropriate stage of treatment.

How MLS Laser Therapy Works

The MLS system delivers two synchronized laser wavelengths: 808nm (continuous wave, primarily for anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects) and 905nm (pulsed wave, primarily for tissue healing and edema reduction). The simultaneous, synchronized delivery of both wavelengths — the defining feature of the MLS system — produces synergistic effects that exceed what either wavelength achieves independently. This is the key difference between MLS and conventional single-wavelength cold laser (LLLT) devices.

At the cellular level, MLS laser energy is absorbed by chromophores in mitochondria (cytochrome c oxidase), stimulating ATP production, reducing oxidative stress, decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, and activating growth factors that accelerate fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis. In clinical terms: pain decreases, swelling resolves faster, and damaged tissue heals more rapidly. The effects begin within the first 2–3 treatments and accumulate with the complete treatment series.

Conditions We Treat with MLS Laser at Our Practice

Plantar fasciitis: MLS laser is one of the most effective treatments for plantar fasciitis that has not responded to stretching and orthotics. The laser reduces the inflammatory cytokine load at the fascial origin and accelerates healing of the degenerated fascia insertion. Most patients complete a 6-session protocol over 3 weeks with significant improvement. Particularly effective for chronic cases where the fascia has undergone degenerative changes (fasciosis rather than fasciitis).

Achilles tendinopathy (insertional and mid-substance): MLS laser reduces tendon inflammation and promotes healing of degenerated tendon tissue. Combined with appropriate exercise rehabilitation (eccentric or concentric protocol depending on location), laser therapy significantly accelerates return to activity. Particularly valuable for insertional Achilles tendonitis where cortisone injection risks tendon damage.

Ankle sprains and ligament injuries: MLS laser applied to the lateral ankle ligament complex in the acute phase (48–72 hours post-injury) reduces hematoma resorption time, accelerates ligament healing, and reduces time to return to sport. Multiple sports medicine studies support same-day or next-day laser therapy initiation after ankle sprain for optimal outcomes.

Toenail fungus (onychomycosis): The 905nm wavelength of the MLS system is fungicidal — it penetrates the nail plate and targets fungal organisms in the nail bed without systemic drug exposure. The MLS toenail fungus protocol involves 4–6 treatments over 2–4 weeks. No liver monitoring required. No drug interactions. Effective for patients who cannot take or prefer to avoid oral terbinafine (due to hepatotoxicity risk, drug interactions, or personal preference). Complete nail clearing requires 9–12 months as the treated nail grows out.

Peripheral neuropathy: Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated that MLS laser therapy reduces pain intensity in diabetic peripheral neuropathy and in some cases improves sensory threshold scores. The mechanism involves enhanced mitochondrial function in damaged nerve cells and reduced pro-inflammatory mediators in the neural environment. We incorporate MLS laser as an adjunct to medical management of painful neuropathy at both our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices.

Sesamoiditis, bursitis, and soft tissue inflammation: MLS laser is highly effective for any focal soft tissue inflammation — sesamoiditis, retrocalcaneal bursitis, interdigital neuritis, and capsulitis. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects allow reduction or elimination of cortisone injection for many inflammatory conditions in the foot.

What to Expect During Treatment

Each MLS laser treatment takes 5–10 minutes for a focal area (heel, ankle, or forefoot). The probe is moved over the treatment area while the laser is active. Most patients feel a mild warmth — the treatment is painless, with no burning, vibration, or discomfort. There are no wound or recovery restrictions after treatment — patients can drive, work, and exercise normally. There is no downtime. The standard protocol for most conditions is 6 treatments over 3 weeks, with re-evaluation at treatment completion to assess response and determine if additional sessions are beneficial.

Does Insurance Cover MLS Laser?

MLS laser therapy is not covered by most insurance plans as a standalone therapy — it is considered elective by most insurers despite a strong and growing evidence base. We provide transparent pricing and can often incorporate laser therapy within the context of a covered office visit evaluation. Many patients find that eliminating cortisone injections, oral medications, or surgical procedures through laser therapy represents significant net cost savings. Contact our office at (810) 206-1402 for current laser therapy pricing and package options.

Book an MLS Laser Consultation — Howell & Bloomfield Hills

MLS laser therapy is available at both Balance Foot & Ankle locations. Same-day evaluation and treatment available. Call (810) 206-1402 or book online. Serving Howell, Brighton, Bloomfield Hills, Troy, and all of southeastern Michigan.

Related: Insertional Achilles Tendonitis · All Causes of Heel Pain · Peripheral Neuropathy

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a double board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has reached over one million views.