Coming soon
Laser Therapy
Low-level laser therapy added to a physiotherapy session.
- Treatment time
- A few minutes, within a physiotherapy session
- Downtime
- None
About Laser Therapy
Laser therapy, also called low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation, uses low-intensity light directed at an area of pain or injury. It doesn't heat or cut the skin. Romulo uses it as an addition to a physiotherapy session for some painful muscle, joint and tendon problems, alongside hands-on treatment and exercise.
Romulo completed training in clinical laser therapy in 2019.
Key Benefits
- 01Painless and non-invasive
- 02Added to a physiotherapy session rather than replacing it
- 03No downtime
- 04Quick to apply
- 05Only used where Romulo thinks it is appropriate for you
Is this treatment right for me?
Laser therapy may be suggested as part of a treatment plan for some painful muscle, tendon and joint problems. Romulo will explain why he's recommending it, and what the evidence does and doesn't show, before using it.
You may be suitable if…
- You're having physiotherapy for a painful muscle, tendon or joint problem
- You're not pregnant (if the area is near the abdomen)
- You don't have cancer in the area being treated
Your consultation will consider…
- Pregnancy, and cancer or a suspicious lump in the area
- Medication that makes the skin sensitive to light
- Treatment near the eyes, which is always avoided; protective glasses are worn
- Whether laser adds anything useful to your plan
What to expect
Before treatment
Your first appointment is a full physiotherapy assessment with Romulo. He'll ask about your symptoms, how and when they started, your medical history, your work and activities, and what you'd like to get back to doing. Bring any scans, letters or reports you have. Wear comfortable clothing that lets him see and move the area being treated.
During treatment
You and Romulo wear protective glasses. He holds the laser probe against or just above the skin over the treatment area for a short time. Most people feel nothing, or a mild warmth.
After treatment
You can carry on as normal straight away.
Results & longevity
Laser is used as one part of a course of physiotherapy, so any change is judged alongside the rest of your plan. Results vary from person to person.
Recovery, side effects & aftercare
There is no downtime and nothing to see afterwards.
Side effects
Side effects are uncommon. Occasionally people notice brief tingling or a temporary increase in symptoms.
Aftercare
Keep up the exercises and advice Romulo gives you; they matter as much as the treatment in clinic. Stay gently active rather than resting completely, unless he has told you otherwise, and note how your symptoms respond so you can discuss it at your next session.
Please contact the clinic if your pain becomes much worse after treatment, or if you have any concern. Seek urgent medical help (NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency) for new numbness around the groin or buttocks, new problems controlling your bladder or bowels, weakness in the legs, or chest pain.
- Downtime
- None for most people
- Redness
- Occasionally mild redness over the treated area, settling within hours
- Swelling
- Not expected
- Bruising
- Uncommon
- Normal activities
- Usually straight away; Romulo will tell you if anything should be avoided for a day or two
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it hurt?
No. Most people feel nothing or a slight warmth.
Is it a stand-alone treatment?
No. Romulo uses laser alongside hands-on treatment and exercise as part of a physiotherapy session.
Why do I need to wear glasses?
Laser light can harm the eyes, so you and Romulo always wear protective glasses during treatment.
Who shouldn't have it?
It isn't used over the eyes, over cancer, or over the abdomen in pregnancy. Romulo checks your history first.
Can I claim on private medical insurance?
Some insurers cover treatment by an HCPC registered physiotherapist. Please check with your insurer before booking, as policies differ.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the problem and how long you've had it. After your assessment Romulo will give you a written plan with the number of sessions he recommends, so you can decide before committing to anything.
Your Practitioner
Romulo Costa
HCPC Registered Physiotherapist
Romulo is an HCPC registered physiotherapist with more than a decade's experience, from intensive care and rehabilitation to musculoskeletal medicine and long-standing pain. He trained in Brazil, where he ran his own rehabilitation clinic, before moving to Scotland and running his own clinic in Motherwell specialising in chronic pain and spinal problems. He starts by listening: to understand not just where it hurts, but what the pain has stopped you doing and why it hasn't settled. Every plan is built on a thorough assessment and explained clearly, with shockwave, laser and hands-on treatment used only where they have a clear purpose.