MLS (Multiwave Locked System) laser therapy is an FDA-cleared, non-surgical treatment that uses concentrated light energy to reduce foot and ankle pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate healing. This advanced laser technology combines two therapeutic wavelengths simultaneously to provide effective pain relief for conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, arthritis, and neuropathy without surgery, injections, or downtime. At New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute, we offer this cutting-edge treatment at both our Northeast and Westside Albuquerque locations, helping patients return to pain-free activity faster.
What Is MLS Laser Therapy?
MLS laser therapy represents a breakthrough in non-surgical pain management for foot and ankle conditions. The technology uses a patented Multiwave Locked System that synchronizes two distinct therapeutic wavelengths—continuous and pulsed laser emissions—to deliver deeper tissue penetration and more effective treatment outcomes than traditional single-wavelength lasers.
Unlike older laser technologies, MLS laser therapy is FDA-cleared specifically for treating pain and inflammation. The synchronized wavelength delivery creates an optimal environment for cellular repair and regeneration, making it particularly effective for chronic foot and ankle pain that hasn't responded well to conservative treatments.
This advanced therapy has been widely adopted across the United States and internationally, with thousands of patients experiencing significant pain reduction and improved mobility. At New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute, we've integrated this technology into our comprehensive approach to foot pain treatment, offering Albuquerque patients a powerful alternative to surgery and long-term medication use.
How MLS Laser Therapy Works
MLS laser therapy works at the cellular level to promote natural healing processes in damaged or inflamed tissue. The synchronized dual-wavelength system penetrates deep into soft tissue and bone, triggering several beneficial biological responses:
The Science Behind MLS Laser
- Increased cellular metabolism: The laser energy stimulates ATP production in cells, providing the energy needed for tissue repair
- Enhanced circulation: Blood vessel dilation improves oxygen and nutrient delivery to injured areas
- Reduced inflammation: The therapy decreases inflammatory mediators and reduces swelling
- Pain signal interruption: Laser energy blocks pain transmission along nerve fibers
- Accelerated tissue regeneration: Stimulation of fibroblasts and collagen production speeds healing
The continuous wave emission provides immediate anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, while the pulsed emission stimulates deeper tissue healing. This synchronized approach makes MLS laser therapy more effective than traditional laser treatments, often providing noticeable pain relief after just the first session.
For patients dealing with chronic foot pain, this means addressing not just the symptoms but also the underlying tissue damage causing discomfort.
Conditions We Treat with MLS Laser Therapy in Albuquerque
MLS laser therapy has proven effective for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. At our Northeast Albuquerque and Westside offices, we commonly use this treatment for:
Common Conditions
- Plantar fasciitis: Heel and arch pain caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament
- Achilles tendonitis: Inflammation and pain in the Achilles tendon
- Peripheral neuropathy: Nerve pain, tingling, and numbness in the feet
- Arthritis: Joint pain and stiffness in the foot and ankle
- Morton's neuroma: Nerve tissue thickening causing ball-of-foot pain
- Heel spurs: Calcium deposits causing heel pain
- Ankle sprains: Ligament injuries and associated inflammation
- Tendonitis: Various tendon inflammations throughout the foot and ankle
- Post-surgical pain: Lingering discomfort following foot or ankle surgery
- Sports injuries: Overuse injuries and acute trauma
Whether you're an athlete dealing with a sports-related injury or someone experiencing daily discomfort from a chronic condition, MLS laser therapy can provide significant relief.
Benefits of MLS Laser Therapy
Patients choosing MLS laser therapy at New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute enjoy numerous advantages over traditional treatment approaches:
Key Treatment Benefits
- Non-invasive and non-surgical: No incisions, anesthesia, or surgical risks
- Drug-free pain relief: Reduce or eliminate reliance on pain medications
- No downtime: Return to normal activities immediately after treatment
- Fast treatment sessions: Most sessions take only 10-15 minutes
- Painless procedure: Most patients feel only a gentle warming sensation
- Rapid results: Many patients experience relief after the first few sessions
- Cumulative healing effect: Benefits continue to improve throughout the treatment course
- FDA-cleared technology: Clinically proven safe and effective
- Treats root causes: Addresses underlying tissue damage, not just symptoms
- Minimal side effects: No known adverse effects when properly administered
For many patients, MLS laser therapy provides the pain relief they've been seeking without the risks and recovery time associated with foot surgery. It's particularly valuable for individuals who want to avoid long-term use of pain medications or who haven't found adequate relief from other conservative treatments.
What to Expect During MLS Laser Therapy Treatment
At New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute, we've designed our laser therapy treatment process to be comfortable, convenient, and effective. Here's what you can expect:
Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation at either our Pan American Fwy NE or Golf Course Rd NW location. During this appointment, your podiatrist will:
- Review your medical history and symptoms
- Perform a thorough physical examination
- Discuss your treatment goals and expectations
- Determine if MLS laser therapy is appropriate for your condition
- Create a customized treatment plan
Treatment Sessions
Each MLS laser therapy session is quick and comfortable:
- Preparation: The treatment area is cleaned, and you'll be positioned comfortably
- Laser application: The handheld laser device is applied directly to your skin over the affected area
- Treatment delivery: The synchronized laser wavelengths penetrate the tissue for 10-15 minutes
- Sensation: Most patients feel a gentle, soothing warmth during treatment
- Post-treatment: You can immediately return to your normal activities
Treatment Protocol
A typical MLS laser therapy protocol consists of 6-12 sessions, depending on your condition's severity and chronicity. Sessions are usually scheduled 2-3 times per week for the first few weeks, then may be tapered as improvement occurs.
Your podiatrist will monitor your progress throughout treatment and adjust the protocol as needed to ensure optimal results. Many patients begin experiencing pain reduction after just 2-3 sessions, with continued improvement throughout the treatment course.
Expected Results and Timeline
The results from MLS laser therapy can be impressive, but they vary based on individual factors such as the condition being treated, its duration, and your overall health.
Typical Timeline
- After 1-3 sessions: Many patients notice initial pain reduction and increased mobility
- After 4-6 sessions: More significant improvement in pain levels and function
- After 6-12 sessions: Maximum therapeutic benefit typically achieved
- Long-term: Results can last for months to years, especially when combined with appropriate preventive care
Factors Affecting Results
Several factors influence how quickly and completely you'll respond to treatment:
- The severity and duration of your condition
- Your overall health and healing capacity
- Adherence to the recommended treatment schedule
- Compliance with home care instructions and activity modifications
- Whether you combine laser therapy with other treatments like custom orthotics or physical therapy
Clinical studies show that MLS laser therapy can reduce pain by 50-90% in many patients, with some achieving complete resolution of symptoms. The key is completing the full treatment course and maintaining good foot health practices afterward.
Who Is a Good Candidate for MLS Laser Therapy?
MLS laser therapy is safe and effective for most patients experiencing foot and ankle pain. You may be an excellent candidate if you:
- Have chronic or acute foot or ankle pain
- Haven't found adequate relief from conservative treatments
- Want to avoid surgery or delay surgical intervention
- Prefer drug-free pain management
- Need to return to activities quickly
- Have inflammatory conditions affecting your feet
- Experience nerve pain or neuropathy
- Are recovering from a sports injury
- Have arthritis affecting your foot or ankle joints
Contraindications
While MLS laser therapy is safe for most people, it may not be recommended if you:
- Are pregnant
- Have active cancer in the treatment area
- Have epilepsy or are photosensitive
- Are taking photosensitizing medications
During your consultation at our Albuquerque office, your podiatrist will evaluate your medical history to ensure MLS laser therapy is safe and appropriate for you.
Why Choose New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute for MLS Laser Therapy
When seeking laser therapy for foot pain in Albuquerque, experience and expertise matter. Here's why patients throughout the Albuquerque metro area trust New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute:
Experienced Podiatric Specialists
Our board-certified podiatrists have extensive training in advanced laser therapy techniques and stay current with the latest protocols and research. We've successfully treated hundreds of patients with MLS laser therapy, gaining valuable insights into optimizing treatment outcomes.
Advanced Technology
We invest in the most advanced MLS laser systems available, ensuring you receive the most effective treatment possible. Our state-of-the-art equipment is regularly maintained and calibrated for optimal performance.
Comprehensive Approach
We don't just treat symptoms—we identify and address the underlying causes of your foot pain. MLS laser therapy is often combined with other treatments such as proper footwear recommendations, stretching exercises, and custom orthotics for the best long-term results.
Convenient Locations
With offices in both Northeast Albuquerque (Pan American Fwy NE) and on the Westside (Golf Course Rd NW), we make it easy for patients throughout the Albuquerque area to access cutting-edge laser therapy treatment.
Patient-Centered Care
We take time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and develop treatment plans that align with your goals and lifestyle. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities.
Proven Results
Our patients consistently report significant pain reduction and improved quality of life following MLS laser therapy. We're proud of the positive outcomes we've achieved and the trust our patients place in us.
Frequently Asked Questions About MLS Laser Therapy
What is MLS laser therapy?
MLS laser therapy is an FDA-cleared treatment that uses synchronized dual-wavelength laser energy to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate healing in damaged tissue. The Multiwave Locked System delivers both continuous and pulsed laser emissions simultaneously, providing superior therapeutic effects compared to traditional single-wavelength lasers.
Does MLS laser therapy really work for foot pain?
Yes, clinical studies and real-world results demonstrate that MLS laser therapy is highly effective for treating various types of foot and ankle pain. Most patients experience significant pain reduction, with many reporting 50-90% improvement in symptoms. The therapy works by addressing inflammation, improving circulation, and stimulating tissue healing at the cellular level.
What conditions does MLS laser therapy treat?
MLS laser therapy effectively treats plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, peripheral neuropathy, arthritis, Morton's neuroma, heel spurs, ankle sprains, various tendonitis conditions, post-surgical pain, and sports injuries. It's particularly valuable for chronic conditions that haven't responded well to other conservative treatments.
Is MLS laser therapy painful?
No, MLS laser therapy is not painful. Most patients describe the sensation as a gentle, soothing warmth in the treatment area. Some feel nothing at all during the procedure. There's no discomfort afterward, and you can immediately return to your normal activities with no downtime required.
How many laser therapy sessions are needed?
Most patients require 6-12 MLS laser therapy sessions for optimal results, with treatments scheduled 2-3 times per week initially. The exact number depends on your condition's severity, how long you've had it, and how well you respond to treatment. Many patients notice improvement after just 2-3 sessions, with continued benefits throughout the treatment course.
How long do MLS laser therapy results last?
Results from MLS laser therapy can last for months to years, especially when combined with appropriate preventive care such as proper footwear, stretching, and maintaining a healthy weight. The therapy promotes actual tissue healing rather than just masking symptoms, which contributes to longer-lasting relief. Some patients may benefit from occasional maintenance treatments.
Does insurance cover MLS laser therapy?
Insurance coverage for MLS laser therapy varies by plan and provider. Some insurance companies cover the treatment, while others may not. Our office staff will be happy to verify your benefits and discuss payment options during your consultation. Many patients find the treatment cost-effective compared to ongoing medications or surgical interventions.
Can MLS laser therapy help me avoid foot surgery?
For many patients, MLS laser therapy provides sufficient pain relief and healing to avoid or delay surgery. It's often recommended as a conservative treatment option before considering surgical intervention. However, some conditions may ultimately require surgery if conservative approaches don't provide adequate relief. Your podiatrist will discuss all appropriate treatment options based on your specific situation.
Schedule Your MLS Laser Therapy Consultation in Albuquerque
If you're tired of living with foot or ankle pain and are looking for an effective, non-surgical solution, MLS laser therapy may be exactly what you need. At New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute, we're committed to helping you achieve lasting pain relief and return to the activities you love.
Our experienced podiatrists are ready to evaluate your condition and determine if MLS laser therapy is right for you. We'll take the time to answer all your questions and develop a personalized treatment plan designed to meet your specific needs and goals.
Contact Us Today
Northeast Albuquerque Office:
4343 Pan American Fwy NE, Ste 234
Albuquerque, NM 87107
Phone: (505) 880-1000
Westside Albuquerque Office:
10511 Golf Course Rd NW, Ste 203
Albuquerque, NM 87114
Phone: (505) 872-3333
Don't let foot pain hold you back any longer. Contact New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute today to schedule your MLS laser therapy consultation and take the first step toward pain-free living. We're proud to serve patients throughout the Albuquerque metro area with compassionate, expert care and the most advanced treatment options available.
Call (505) 880-1000 for Northeast Heights | Call (505) 872-3333 for Westside