Best Cold Laser Therapy Devices

Chronic pain can be extremely debilitating, affecting every aspect of a person's quality of life. In the United States, nearly 100 million people suffer from chronic pain. And the problem is only getting worse. A recent study found that the number of adults with chronic pain has steadily increased by 10 percent in the last decade.

The most common treatment for chronic pain is prescription medication, typically opioid drugs like oxycodone (Percocet) and hydrocodone (Lortab). But these drugs have serious risks, including addiction, overdose, and death. In fact, synthetic opioids were involved in more than 71,000 deaths in 2021 alone. That's why more and more people are looking for safe and effective alternatives to drugs for pain relief.

If you're looking for a non-invasive, painless, and drug-free way to treat your pain, cold laser therapy may be worth considering. But with so many devices on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've done the research for you to find the best cold laser therapy devices on the market today!

What is Cold Laser Therapy?

You may have heard of cold laser therapy, also known as low level laser therapy (LLLT). Cold laser therapy is an FDA-cleared medical treatment that uses low levels of laser light to relieve chronic pain and promote healing.

Unlike other forms of laser therapy, cold lasers do not produce heat, so there is no risk of burns or tissue damage. It is called “cold laser” not because it is cold, but rather because it is not hot! (A little tricky, I know.) Cold laser therapy effectively treats numerous conditions, including neck pain, shoulder pain, back pain, joint pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome. 

Wavelengths

• The 650 nm wavelength is a commonly used wavelength in cold laser therapy. This wavelength has a lower absorption rate in tissues than the 808 nm wavelength, which means that it can penetrate less deeply but can be more easily absorbed by cells and tissues closer to the skin surface. The 650 nm wavelength can stimulate the production of collagen, a protein that is essential for healthy skin, bones, and other connective tissues. It can also increase blood flow and oxygenation to the tissues, which can promote healing and reduce inflammation. Additionally, the 650 nm wavelength has been shown to have pain-relieving effects by stimulating the production of endorphins, natural painkillers that are produced by the body. Overall, the 650 nm wavelength is beneficial in cold laser therapy due to its ability to promote collagen production, increase blood flow, and provide pain relief.
• The 808 nm wavelength is often used in cold laser therapy because it has a high absorption rate in water and melanin, which are common components of human tissues. This means that the laser energy can penetrate deeply into the tissues without being absorbed or scattered by the skin, allowing it to reach the affected area more effectively. Furthermore, the 808 nm wavelength can stimulate the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a molecule that is essential for cellular energy production and metabolism. This can help to promote tissue repair and regeneration, reduce inflammation and swelling, and alleviate pain. Overall, the 808 nm wavelength is a popular choice for cold laser therapy due to its ability to penetrate deeply and stimulate cellular energy production.
• The 850 nm wavelength is another commonly used wavelength in cold laser therapy. This wavelength has a higher absorption rate in water and hemoglobin, which are common components of blood vessels, making it effective in promoting blood flow and oxygenation to the tissues. The 850 nm wavelength can also penetrate deeply into the tissues, allowing it to reach areas that are deeper within the body. It has been shown to stimulate the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that plays a critical role in promoting vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels), reducing inflammation, and improving tissue repair and regeneration. Moreover, the 850 nm wavelength can help to relieve pain by blocking pain signals and reducing nerve sensitivity. It has also been found to promote the production of growth factors that can aid in tissue repair and regeneration. Overall, the 850 nm wavelength is beneficial in cold laser therapy due to its ability to promote blood flow, reduce inflammation, and provide pain relief. It is particularly useful for treating deeper tissues and promoting tissue repair and regeneration.

What Are The Best Cold Laser Therapy Devices?

Best Cold Laser Therapy Device For Clinical Use

Cold Laser Therapy Machine with PMST Therapy | Dual-Wavelength 808nm and 650nm, Up to 3,000Hz Output - PMST Neo+ by LOTUXS View Product

The PMST Neo+ by LOTUXS combines dual-wavelength cold laser therapy with Physio Magneto Super Transduction (PMST) technology, penetrating deeper for more targeted relief. This advanced system delivers 650 nm and 808 nm laser light to stimulate tissue repair, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation. The hands-free applicator arm and large touchscreen make treatments efficient and comfortable for both therapists and patients.

Personalized Pain and Recovery Programs

• The PMST Neo+ gives clinicians precise control over laser wavelength, frequency, and magnetic intensity. Adjustable settings make it easy to adapt sessions to different stages of recovery. By tailoring energy output to the patient’s comfort level and tissue depth, clinicians can target anything from inflammation to chronic pain.

Large, Easy-to-Use Touchscreen

• A bright, intuitive touchscreen displays key information such as treatment time, frequency, and power level. Clinicians can quickly modify settings and work more efficiently, saving time in busy therapy environments.

Hands-Free and Ergonomic Operation

• While many cold laser therapy machines require the therapist to hold the device, the PMST Neo+ features a stable mechanical arm that positions the applicator precisely over the treatment area. This ergonomic design prevents therapist fatigue while ensuring consistent, even delivery of laser and magnetic energy throughout each session.

Overall, the PMST Neo+ offers a unique blend of cold laser and magnetic stimulation that can be used for many conditions. With its ergonomic design, advanced settings, and modern technology, it’s an excellent choice for clinics focused on pain management, sports rehabilitation, and soft-tissue healing.

Best Cold Laser Therapy Device For Veterinary Use

Veterinary Laser Therapy Machine - Intelect Vet View Product

The Intelect Vet is a therapeutic device designed for animals, commonly used in veterinary clinics and animal rehabilitation centers. The wavelengths are 670 nm and 850 nm, depending on the applicator you choose.

Modalities for Pain Relief

• The device uses a range of therapeutic modalities, including electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and laser therapy, to help alleviate pain and inflammation in animals. This can be particularly beneficial for animals recovering from surgery or suffering from conditions such as arthritis or muscle strains.

Accelerated Healing

• The Intelect Vet Therapy Machine has been shown to promote tissue repair and accelerate the healing process in animals. This can be particularly beneficial for animals recovering from injuries, as it can help them to heal more quickly and get back to their normal activities sooner.

Non-Invasive

• Like all cold lasers, this device is a non-invasive treatment option, meaning that it does not require surgery or other invasive procedures. But keep in mind that this can be beneficial for animals who may be sensitive to anesthesia or who are unable to undergo surgery for other reasons!

Versatile

• The Intelect Vet Therapy Machine is a versatile device that can be used to treat a wide range of conditions in animals. It can be used to treat musculoskeletal injuries, neurological conditions, and other conditions that may affect an animal's mobility or quality of life.

Customizable

• The device has a range of customizable settings, including frequency, intensity, and treatment time. This allows veterinarians to tailor the treatment to the specific needs of each animal, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Overall, the Intelect Vet Therapy Machine is a safe, non-invasive, and versatile treatment option for animals suffering from a wide range of conditions. Its ability to promote healing, alleviate pain and inflammation, and accelerate recovery can help animals to achieve a better quality of life and return to their normal activities more quickly.

Best Portable Cold Laser Therapy Device

Class 4 Laser | Cold Laser Therapy System Unit for Muscle and Joints Stimulation - RAV IV View Product

The RAV IV Class 4 Laser Therapy System is built for clinics that need versatile laser therapy in a compact, portable unit. Using wavelengths of 810 nm and 980 nm, it penetrates deeply into tissue to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and accelerate soft-tissue repair. Despite its small frame, the RAV IV delivers power comparable to larger systems and supports multiple handpieces that connect directly to the unit for different treatment areas.

Compact Design with Efficient Power Output

• Weighing under 9 lbs, the space-saving RAV IV fits easily in clinical settings of all sizes. It still provides impressive power, distributing light waves up to wavelengths up to 980nm, while using only 15W of power. It can be used for inpatient or outpatient care, running up to 10,000 hours.
• The RAV IV saves space without compromising performance. It delivers up to 15 W of optical power, emitting light wavelengths up to 980 nm, while operating quietly and efficiently. The system is rated for a lifespan of 10,000 hours, making it reliable for inpatient and outpatient use.

Adaptable Treatment Options

• The Rav IV allows therapists to choose between continuous or pulsed modes, with adjustable pulse durations ranging from 10 μs to 3 s and repetition rates up to 20 kHz. This flexibility helps clinicians tailor treatment for acute injuries, chronic pain, or post-exercise recovery with precise control over tissue depth, power level, and patient comfort.

Large Touchscreen and User-Friendly Interface

• An 8-inch touchscreen displays real-time metrics, including wavelength, power output, treatment time, and mode selection. This flexibility helps clinicians tailor treatments with built-in therapy protocols, customizable hand-piece selection (5 mm to 30 mm lenses), and real-time feedback.

Overall, the Rav IV is a powerful yet portable laser therapy device that can be used for sports medicine, rehabilitation, or for individuals who suffer from chronic pain. Its combination of dual wavelengths, flexible operation modes, and compact design makes it a reliable device for inpatient or outpatient treatment. As with all high-powered laser devices, proper training, patient selection, and documentation are essential for safe and effective outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Difference Between Cold Laser Therapy and Red Light Therapy?

Cold laser therapy uses low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to deliver light energy in the near-infrared spectrum. Red light therapy also uses low-level lasers or LEDs, but these emit red and infrared light. Because of how red light therapy works, it's better for skin conditions such as wrinkles, scars, and stretch marks. Cold laser therapy is more effective for healing beneath the skin.

What Does Laser Therapy Actually Do?

The low-level lasers used in cold laser therapy stimulate cells and reduce inflammation. The light energy from the laser helps to increase blood flow and oxygenation to the area, which reduces pain and speeds up healing.

Cold laser therapy treats chronic pain from arthritis, fibromyalgia, or nerve damage. People can also use it to treat acute injuries, such as strains or sprains.

What Are The Benefits Of Cold Laser Therapy?

There are many benefits of cold laser therapy, including:

• Relief from chronic pain: Cold laser therapy is effective in reducing chronic pain, such as back pain, neck pain, and joint pain
• Increased range of motion: Cold laser therapy can help improve your range of motion by reducing inflammation and stiffness in your joints and muscles
• Faster healing of injuries: Cold laser therapy can speed up the healing process of injuries, such as sprains and strains
• Non-invasive: Cold laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that does not require surgery or medication
• Safe: Cold laser therapy is a safe and FDA-cleared treatment option with few side effects

How Long Does It Take For Laser Therapy To Work?

You may start seeing cold laser therapy results within a few treatments. Some people may see an improvement immediately.

Who Should Not Use Cold Laser Therapy?

Cold laser therapy is a very safe treatment. However, you shouldn't use cold laser therapy if you are pregnant or have certain types of cancer like carcinoma. If you're unsure whether or not cold laser therapy is right for you, please consult your doctor.

Does Laser Therapy Help Arthritis?

Yes, cold laser therapy can help arthritis. It is a painless, drug-free treatment that can reduce inflammation and swelling in the joints. Cold laser therapy effectively reduces pain and stiffness in people with arthritis and other conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis.

Final Thoughts

With a cold laser therapy device, you can easily get relief from pain at home without any side effects. Cold laser therapy is safe and effective for various conditions, including chronic pain, arthritis, and injuries. It's an excellent option for people looking to avoid narcotics and other drugs for pain control.

Looking for more pain relief tips, therapies, and treatments? Check out our blog, Caregiver University, for more information.

Learn More: Cryotherapy Articles written by experts!