Cold laser therapy—sometimes called low-level laser therapy (LLLT)—is gaining attention as a safe, non-invasive way to reduce pain, improve circulation, and accelerate recovery. Unlike surgery, steroid injections, or long-term pain medications, laser therapy doesn’t rely on cutting, chemicals, or harsh side effects. Instead, it uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate your body’s natural healing processes.
At BioRestore Laser Therapy in North Texas, we use the Phoenix Thera-Lase system, one of the most advanced therapeutic lasers available today. It delivers targeted relief to injured or inflamed tissues and is trusted by athletes, active adults, and anyone struggling with chronic pain.
But while cold laser therapy is considered extremely safe, it’s natural to wonder if there are any side effects. The good news is that most people don’t experience anything beyond very mild and temporary sensations after treatment. In fact, some of the side effects—like soreness or “healing pain”—are actually signs that the therapy is working.
Let’s break it down.
Common Side Effects of Cold Laser Therapy
Cold laser therapy is non-invasive, painless, and has virtually no downtime. That said, some people do experience short-lived side effects after their session. Here’s what you might notice:
- Mild soreness or discomfort at the treatment site
This is the most common side effect, often described as “healing pain.” It can feel similar to muscle soreness after a good workout. Usually, it fades within 24–48 hours. - Increased sensitivity or awareness of the treated area
Patients sometimes describe feeling more “in tune” with the area of their body that was treated. This is often because circulation is improving and the healing process is active. - Tingling or gentle warmth
While cold laser therapy doesn’t generate the heat associated with surgical lasers, you may feel a subtle warmth or tingling sensation. This is due to increased cellular activity and improved blood flow. - Temporary fatigue
A few patients report feeling a little tired after their session. Just like your body may need rest after exercise or fighting off an illness, this fatigue is your body redirecting energy into healing.
These side effects are generally short-lived and mild. Many patients report feeling significantly better within a day or two—and often notice increased range of motion, reduced inflammation, and less pain.
Why “Healing Pain” Can Actually Be a Good Sign
One of the most common questions we get at BioRestore is: “Why does my pain feel a little worse before it feels better?”
The answer lies in how laser therapy works. When the laser’s light penetrates your tissues, it stimulates your cells to repair themselves, improves circulation, and reduces inflammation. In other words, your body is getting a jumpstart on healing.
This can sometimes feel like mild soreness, stiffness, or tenderness—similar to what you might feel after a physical therapy session, chiropractic adjustment, or new workout routine. That temporary increase in discomfort is often your body saying:
“I’ve started the healing process. Hang tight—it’s working.”
In fact, many patients who experience this kind of soreness go on to notice meaningful, long-lasting relief in the days and weeks following treatment.
What to Do if You Experience Healing Pain
If you notice mild soreness or discomfort after your cold laser therapy session, here are some simple steps you can take:
- Rest the treated area – Give your body time to adapt and heal. Don’t push too hard with strenuous activity right away.
- Stay hydrated – Water helps your body flush out inflammation byproducts and supports tissue repair.
- Apply ice or gentle heat if needed – Depending on your provider’s advice, a cold pack can calm inflammation, while gentle heat can relax stiff muscles.
- Use over-the-counter comfort measures – Non-prescription options like Tylenol can ease soreness if needed (though most patients don’t find it necessary).
- Track your symptoms – Many patients find that discomfort peaks within 24 hours and then noticeably improves. Keeping a log can help you see progress.
- Communicate with your provider – At BioRestore, we encourage patients to call if they have questions or concerns. Healing pain is usually harmless, but we’re always here to guide you through it.
Most importantly, don’t panic if you feel sore. Mild pain is a normal part of the recovery cycle, and in many cases it means your body is responding positively to treatment.
Rare or Uncommon Side Effects
While cold laser therapy is one of the safest treatment options available, there are a few rare reactions worth noting:
- A temporary increase in pain before relief sets in.
- Minor skin redness in the treated area (this usually fades quickly).
- Headache or lightheadedness (typically in patients who are more sensitive to light).
These reactions are not common, and when they do occur, they resolve quickly. Unlike invasive procedures or medications, cold laser therapy doesn’t carry risks of infection, dependency, or systemic side effects.
Why Cold Laser Therapy is Considered Safe
Here’s why so many people choose cold laser therapy over alternatives like steroid injections or long-term pain medication:
- No drugs or chemicals – Nothing artificial is put into your body.
- No incisions or needles – Completely non-invasive.
- No downtime – Most patients return to normal activities immediately.
- Repeatable and safe – Unlike steroid injections, which can only be given a limited number of times, laser therapy can be used safely for ongoing care.
With the Phoenix Thera-Lase system, BioRestore offers one of the most powerful therapeutic laser devices available today. It’s trusted not only for everyday pain relief but also for athletic recovery, post-surgical healing, and chronic conditions.
Who Can Benefit from Cold Laser Therapy?
Cold laser therapy is used for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Joint pain (knee, hip, shoulder, etc.)
- Back and neck pain
- Sports injuries (sprains, strains, tendonitis)
- Neuropathy
- Arthritis and degenerative joint disease
- Post-surgical recovery
- Chronic inflammation
Because it’s safe and drug-free, it’s especially appealing for people who want a natural alternative to medications—or who want to avoid the risks of surgery and steroids.
The Bottom Line: Side Effects Are Rare and Manageable
When patients ask us about side effects, we reassure them that cold laser therapy is one of the safest treatment options available. Mild soreness or “healing pain” may occur, but it’s temporary and often a positive indicator that the body is actively repairing itself.
At BioRestore Laser Therapy, our mission is to help patients live with less pain and more freedom—without relying on invasive procedures or long-term medications. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic condition or a fresh injury, we’ll walk with you every step of the way, including answering questions about how your body is responding.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Most patients find cold laser therapy not only effective but surprisingly relaxing. While mild soreness may occur, the long-term benefits often far outweigh the short-term discomfort.
If you’re ready to explore a safe, proven, and non-invasive path to healing, our team at BioRestore Laser Therapy is here for you.
👉 Learn more at www.biorestorelasertherapy.com
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