Laser Therapy in Forest Hill

We use Class IV K-Laser therapy as part of a broader treatment plan for selected foot and ankle conditions, especially when pain has been present for some time. The aim is simple: help reduce pain and inflammation, support tissue healing and improve how you move.

What is laser therapy?

Class IV K-Lasers deliver red and near-infrared light into the tissues. This light energy is absorbed by cells and converted into biochemical energy that can support normal healing processes.

• Improved movement of nutrients across cell membranes
• Increased production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cell’s energy source
• Temporary widening of small blood vessels (vasodilation)
• Influence on small peripheral nerves that can help normalise function

In practical terms, this can support healing in irritated tissues and contribute to reduced pain when used appropriately.

Therapeutic effects

Laser therapy is not a stand-alone cure. We use it alongside load management, exercise and other treatments. In that context, laser may help to:

• Improve local blood flow
• Decrease inflammation in the treated area
• Reduce pain levels
• Support soft tissue and bone healing

Conditions we may use laser therapy for

We consider laser therapy for more persistent or irritable problems after a proper clinical assessment. These can include:

• Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
• Achilles tendon pain
• Foot and arch pain with significant soft tissue involvement
• Pain after ankle sprains and ligament injuries
• Ball-of-foot pain (metatarsalgia and forefoot overload)
• Arthritis of the feet and ankles
• Morton’s neuroma
• Muscle and tendon injuries around the foot and ankle
• Stress fractures and fractures in later healing stages
• Chilblains and selected wounds where improved circulation is helpful
• Bunion-related pain and local irritation
• Shin splints and related shin pain
• Bursitis around the foot and ankle

Laser is one option among several. We only recommend it after discussing diagnosis, realistic expectations and other sensible alternatives.

Frequently asked questions

How often can I have laser therapy?

Frequency depends on whether the problem is acute, chronic or long-standing. Acute injuries may be treated more often in the short term. Ongoing or chronic conditions are usually treated one to three times per week initially, then less often as things settle.

How many treatments will I need?

This varies with the diagnosis, severity and duration of your problem. As a rough guide, recent issues may settle within four to six sessions. Long-standing problems such as plantar fasciitis often require a longer course, such as six to twelve treatments, with occasional top-up sessions for some people.

Are there any side effects or risks?

Class IV therapeutic lasers have been used internationally for many years with relatively few reported side effects when used correctly. Occasionally an older or deeper problem may feel temporarily aggravated for a day or two as the area responds. We will go through any specific precautions that apply to your situation before starting.

How long does a treatment take?

Treatment time depends on the size of the area and the condition being treated. Most sessions involve four to ten minutes of actual laser time, usually as part of a standard podiatry appointment.

When will I notice results?

Some people with acute injuries notice change after the first session. More commonly, laser has a cumulative effect and improvement is noticed after three to four treatments. We monitor your response and adjust the plan if progress is not as expected.

Can laser therapy be combined with other treatments?

Yes. We usually combine laser therapy with other evidence-based care such as load modification, exercise programs, taping, orthotic therapy, dry needling and, when needed, shockwave therapy or injection therapies. Laser is most useful as part of a broader plan rather than on its own.

What does laser treatment feel like?

Most people feel little to no sensation during treatment. Some notice a mild warmth or brief sensitivity over more irritated areas, which usually settles quickly.

Book a laser therapy assessment

If you have ongoing foot, heel or ankle pain that has not responded to usual care, laser therapy may be one option within a structured treatment plan. The first step is a clinical assessment to confirm whether it is appropriate for your condition.

Lefort Podiatry provides laser therapy at our Forest Hill clinic for patients from Forest Hill and surrounding suburbs including Blackburn South, Nunawading, Mitcham, Ringwood and Doncaster East. You can book online or call the clinic to arrange an appointment.