Foot pain typically responds to early podiatrist evaluation, conservative treatments like supportive footwear and targeted stretching, and—when needed—custom orthotics. Most patients see improvement within 4-6 weeks of starting a treatment plan. Severe or persistent symptoms warrant in-person assessment to rule out structural issues. Contact our Howell or Bloomfield Hills office for a same-week evaluation.
★ 4.9 Stars · 1,123+ Reviews · Board-Certified Michigan Podiatrists
MLS Laser Therapy for Foot & Ankle
FDA-Cleared Pain Relief Without Drugs or Surgery
MLS (Multiwave Locked System) laser therapy uses synchronized light wavelengths to reduce pain and inflammation while accelerating tissue healing. Effective for plantar fasciitis, neuropathy, arthritis, and sports injuries.
Targeted Pain Relief with MLS Laser Therapy Treatment
in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist, we offer MLS Laser Therapy Treatment—a modern, non-invasive solution for foot and ankle pain. Whether you’re dealing with chronic inflammation, sports injuries, or post-surgical recovery, this advanced therapy accelerates healing and reduces pain without the need for medication or downtime.
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Board Certified Podiatrists — Howell & Bloomfield Hills
Find Expert Podiatry Care at the Location Nearest You.
Howell
4330 E Grand River, Howell, MI 48843
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Bloomfield Hills
43494 Woodward Ave # 208, Bloomfield Twp, MI 48302
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MLS Laser Therapy is FDA-cleared and proven effective for treating a range of conditions including plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, arthritis, and nerve pain. It’s a safe, painless alternative trusted by patients across Howell and Bloomfield Hills. Learn more about our plantar fasciitis and heel pain services.
When Is the Surgery Needed?
MLS Laser Therapy is ideal for patients seeking to avoid surgery, but in some severe cases of structural damage or persistent pain, surgery might be considered. Learn more about our diabetic foot pain services.
Our Surgical Approach
We only recommend surgery when absolutely necessary. Our board-certified podiatrists will evaluate your condition and explain the most effective, minimally invasive procedures available.
Benefits of Cold Therapy for Foot Pain
What to Expect – Before, During & After Surgery
Your first visit involves a consultation to determine if MLS Laser Therapy is right for you. Treatments are quick (10-15 minutes) and painless, with patients often feeling relief within a few sessions.
Why Choose Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell & Bloomfield Hills for MLS laser Therapy Treatment?
Our experienced podiatrists, including Dr. Tom Biernacki and Dr. Carl Jay, use the most advanced technology in foot and ankle care. We are committed to providing personalized, compassionate treatment to help you move without pain.
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Struggling with Another Foot Problem? We Can Help.
MLS Laser Therapy Treatment FAQs
Yes, it’s FDA-approved and has no known side effects.
How many sessions will I need?
Most patients benefit from 6–12 sessions depending on the condition.
Will I feel anything during the treatment?
No, the procedure is completely painless.
Can it treat neuropathy or chronic pain?
Yes, MLS Laser Therapy is effective for nerve-related pain.
Some plans may cover it—contact our office for assistance.
Reduce Pain and Speed Healing with MLS Laser Therapy
Don’t let chronic foot or ankle pain slow you down. MLS Laser Therapy at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist is a safe, non-invasive treatment that targets inflammation, promotes tissue repair, and helps restore mobility.
Our experienced podiatrists in Howell and Bloomfield Hills provide personalized therapy plans to treat conditions like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and other soft tissue injuries effectively and safely.
Ready to try MLS laser therapy? Non-invasive pain relief with no downtime. 4.9★ rated by 1,123+ patients. Call (810) 206-1402 or schedule your session online.
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Clinical References
MLS Laser Therapy Cost and Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for MLS laser therapy depends on your specific plan. Some commercial plans through BCBS, United Healthcare, and Aetna provide partial or full coverage for laser therapy when prescribed for specific conditions and when other treatments have been attempted.
For patients paying out of pocket, MLS laser therapy is offered at competitive self-pay rates with package pricing available for multi-session treatment plans. Most patients require 6 to 10 sessions for optimal results. View self-pay pricing options.
Call (810) 206-1402 to verify your insurance coverage for laser therapy.
Watch: Nerve Pain Treatment by Dr. Tom Biernacki
What Our Patients Say About Laser Therapy
The MLS laser therapy was painless and I started feeling improvement after just two sessions. My foot pain from plantar fasciitis decreased dramatically. The staff is wonderful and always makes me feel welcome.
— Sarah K., Bloomfield Hills
I tried everything for my chronic foot pain before discovering laser therapy at Balance Foot and Ankle. After completing my treatment series, the pain is almost completely gone. I wish I had found them sooner.
— Thomas H., Novi
Related Treatments & Resources
MLS laser therapy complements many of our treatment approaches. Learn more about related services:
- EPAT Shockwave Therapy — Often paired with laser therapy for stubborn soft tissue conditions
- Plantar Fasciitis Treatment — Laser therapy accelerates plantar fascia healing
- Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment — MLS laser helps reduce neuropathic pain
- Diabetic Foot Care — Laser therapy promotes wound healing in diabetic patients
- Achilles Tendinopathy — Reduce inflammation and promote tendon repair
- Custom 3D Orthotics — Address underlying biomechanical issues
- Howell Office | Bloomfield Hills Office
- Insurance & Costs — Coverage information for laser therapy
⚠️ Consider MLS laser therapy if you experience:
- Chronic foot or ankle pain that hasn’t responded to conservative treatment
- Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, or neuropathy pain
- Post-surgical swelling or slow-healing wounds
- Arthritis pain in the feet or ankles
- Need for a drug-free, non-invasive pain relief option
Clinical Sources
- Cotler HB, et al. “The Use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) For Musculoskeletal Pain.” MOJ Orthop Rheumatol. 2015;2(5):00068. PubMed
- Chow RT, et al. “Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the management of neck pain.” Lancet. 2009;374(9705):1897-1908. PubMed
- Bjordal JM, et al. “A systematic review of low level laser therapy with location-specific doses for pain from chronic joint disorders.” Aust J Physiother. 2003;49(2):107-116. PubMed
- Hamblin MR. “Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation.” AIMS Biophys. 2017;4(3):337-361. PubMed
Ready to Get Relief?
Same-day appointments available in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI
4.9★ | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Or call: (810) 206-1402
Key takeaway: MLS Laser Therapy uses synchronized dual-wavelength technology to reduce inflammation and accelerate tissue repair simultaneously. It is FDA-cleared, completely painless, and requires zero downtime — most patients return to normal activities immediately after treatment.
How MLS Laser Therapy Works: The Dual-Wavelength Advantage
What sets MLS (Multiwave Locked System) laser therapy apart from other laser treatments is its patented synchronized dual-wavelength delivery system. The device simultaneously emits two therapeutic wavelengths — 808nm (continuous) and 905nm (pulsed) — that work together to address both pain and inflammation at the cellular level.
The 808nm wavelength penetrates deep into tissue to provide an anti-inflammatory and anti-edema effect, reducing swelling and improving circulation in the treatment area. Meanwhile, the 905nm wavelength delivers a powerful analgesic effect by interfering with pain signal transmission along nerve fibers. When these wavelengths are synchronized and locked together, the therapeutic effect is significantly greater than either wavelength alone — this is the principle that gives MLS its name and its clinical advantage.
At the cellular level, the laser energy is absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria, stimulating increased ATP production — the energy currency your cells need for repair. This process, known as photobiomodulation, essentially recharges damaged cells and accelerates the body’s natural healing process. The result is faster tissue repair, reduced inflammation, and significant pain relief without medication or surgery.
Conditions We Treat with MLS Laser
At our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices, Dr. Tom uses MLS laser therapy for a wide spectrum of foot and ankle conditions. The most common applications include plantar fasciitis and chronic heel pain, Achilles tendinitis and tendinopathy, peripheral neuropathy pain and nerve regeneration, ankle sprains and ligament injuries, post-surgical healing acceleration, and toenail fungus (as adjunctive therapy).
MLS laser therapy pairs exceptionally well with EPAT shockwave therapy for stubborn chronic conditions. While EPAT stimulates a mechanical healing response through acoustic waves, MLS laser enhances the biological healing response through photobiomodulation. Many of our patients with chronic plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis benefit from combining both modalities for maximum results. We also frequently combine laser therapy with custom 3D orthotics to address both the symptoms and the underlying biomechanical cause.
What to Expect During Treatment
Each MLS laser session takes approximately 10-15 minutes. You will sit comfortably while the laser applicator is positioned over the treatment area. Most patients feel a gentle warmth — the treatment is completely painless. There are no needles, no incisions, and no anesthesia required.
A typical treatment protocol involves 6-12 sessions scheduled 2-3 times per week, depending on your condition and severity. Many patients report noticeable improvement in pain and mobility after just 2-3 sessions. There is absolutely zero downtime — you can drive yourself to and from appointments and resume all normal activities immediately. This makes MLS laser an ideal option for active patients who cannot afford time away from work or their daily routine.
Frequently Asked Questions About MLS Laser Therapy
Is MLS laser therapy painful?
No. MLS laser therapy is completely painless. Most patients describe feeling a gentle warmth during treatment. Each session takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes, and you can return to normal activities immediately afterward with no downtime.
How many laser therapy sessions will I need?
Most patients experience significant improvement within 6 to 12 sessions, typically scheduled two to three times per week. The exact number depends on the severity and chronicity of your condition. Many patients notice reduced pain after just two or three treatments.
What conditions does MLS laser therapy treat?
MLS laser therapy effectively treats plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, neuropathy, arthritis, sports injuries, post-surgical swelling, wounds, and chronic foot and ankle pain. It works by stimulating cellular repair, reducing inflammation, and accelerating tissue healing at the molecular level.
Does insurance cover MLS laser therapy?
Insurance coverage for MLS laser therapy varies by plan. While some insurance plans cover laser therapy for specific diagnoses, others may consider it elective. Our office staff can verify your specific coverage before treatment begins. We also offer affordable self-pay options.
Related Conditions & Treatments
MLS laser therapy is often part of a thorough treatment plan. Learn more about conditions we treat with laser therapy: Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Pain, Sports Injuries, and Diabetic Foot Care.
WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY
4.9 ★ Rating · 1,123+ Five-Star Reviews
★★★★★
“The laser therapy sessions were painless and the results were notable. My chronic foot pain is finally manageable after just a few treatments.”
— Thomas B., Brighton
★★★★★
“I was skeptical about laser therapy but after seeing the results, I’m a believer. The staff is professional and the treatment actually works.”
— Nancy S., South Lyon
Start Your MLS Laser Treatment
FDA-cleared, non-invasive pain relief. Same-week appointments.
or call (810) 206-1402 ·
(248) 815-2221
Your Expert Podiatrists
Serving Patients Across Southeast Michigan
Balance Foot & Ankle provides expert podiatric care from two convenient locations. Our Howell office serves patients from Brighton, Hartland, Fowlerville, Pinckney, Fenton, Hamburg, Whitmore Lake, South Lyon, and throughout Livingston County. Our Bloomfield Hills office serves Birmingham, Troy, West Bloomfield, Pontiac, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Royal Oak, Clarkston, Lake Orion, Rochester Hills, Waterford, Commerce Township, Novi, and Walled Lake across Oakland County.
Your Board-Certified Podiatrists
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Same-week appointments available at both locations.
Board-certified care at both Michigan locations
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Most insurance accepted · On-site X-ray · Board-certified podiatrists
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions does MLS laser therapy treat?
MLS laser therapy effectively treats: plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, neuropathy pain, arthritis, post-surgical pain, sprains and strains, diabetic wounds, sports injuries, and chronic inflammation. The FDA-cleared technology reduces pain and inflammation while accelerating tissue healing.
How many MLS laser sessions are needed?
A typical treatment course is 6-12 sessions over 3-6 weeks. Most patients notice improvement within the first 3-4 treatments. Chronic conditions may require maintenance sessions. Unlike cortisone injections, laser therapy has no systemic side effects and can be used repeatedly.
MLS Laser Therapy for Foot & Ankle Pain
See how Multiwave Locked System (MLS) laser therapy uses synchronized 808nm and 905nm wavelengths to eliminate inflammation, accelerate healing, and relieve chronic foot and ankle pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many MLS laser sessions are needed?
Most conditions require 6–10 sessions over 2–3 weeks. Acute injuries may need fewer sessions; chronic conditions like neuropathy or arthritis may benefit from maintenance treatments. Many patients notice improvement after the 3rd or 4th session.
Is MLS laser therapy FDA cleared?
Yes — MLS Multiwave Locked System laser is FDA cleared for pain relief and inflammation reduction. It is a Class IV therapeutic laser that delivers controlled energy deep into tissue without heat damage, making it safe for most patients.
What conditions does MLS laser treat in the foot?
MLS laser is effective for plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, peripheral neuropathy, post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, arthritis, and chronic wounds. It is non-invasive, requires no anesthesia, and has no downtime.
Watch Dr. Tom on MLS Laser Therapy
MLS laser is our most-used in-clinic therapy for plantar fasciitis, neuropathy, and tendinitis. Dr. Tom explains how it complements home treatment.
MLS Laser + Home Protocol
MLS laser accelerates cellular repair — but it works 3x faster when combined with the right home protocol. These four products are what we tell laser patients to use between sessions:
Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel
Menthol + arnica between laser sessions — reduces inflammation without NSAIDs (which blunt laser’s tissue-repair effect).
PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles
Most laser patients have underlying biomechanical issues — arch support prevents the condition from recurring after treatment ends.
Reusable Gel Ice Pack
Brief post-session icing (5–10 min) controls rare acute inflammation without inhibiting laser’s long-term effect.
Neoprene Compression Sleeve
Compression after laser sessions supports lymphatic drainage — reduces swelling faster.
Affiliate disclosure: Amazon links are affiliate links — we earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no cost to you. We only recommend products we actually prescribe to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle.
Related from Balance Foot & Ankle
Podiatrist-Recommended Products to Use During MLS Laser Therapy
- PowerStep Pinnacle — corrects the biomechanical stress that the MLS laser is treating at the cellular level
- Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel — topical relief for residual soreness between MLS laser therapy sessions
- DASS Medical Compression Socks — graduated compression enhances the circulation improvements that MLS laser therapy promotes
These are the same products Dr. Biernacki recommends in clinic. Available through our partner Foundation Wellness.
Foot pain — Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a podiatrist for foot pain?
If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks of self-care, interfere with daily activity, or worsen suddenly, schedule a podiatrist evaluation. Early intervention typically shortens recovery and prevents chronic compensation patterns.
Will I need imaging or surgery?
Most foot pain cases resolve with conservative care—custom orthotics, supportive shoe changes, anti-inflammatory protocols, and targeted physical therapy. Imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) is reserved for cases that fail conservative treatment or when structural pathology is suspected. Surgery is rarely the first option.
Does insurance cover foot pain treatment in Michigan?
Most major Michigan insurance plans (BCBS, BCN, Priority Health, HAP, Medicare, Medicaid HMOs, United, Aetna, Cigna) cover medically necessary podiatric care. Custom orthotics may have separate DME coverage rules. Our team verifies your specific benefits before your visit.
Related Conditions We Treat
Learn more about these conditions or book your appointment for a personalized treatment plan.