Super Cold Laser/ Low Level Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia refers to pain of the metatarsals/ foot bones, most commonly arising on the ball of the foot. It generally occurs due to underlying biomechanical stress and is also involved with rheumatoid arthritis and gout. The cause of the condition is chronic stretching of the transverse ligaments due to either repetitive trauma, excessive weight or hammer toes.

Risk factors for developing Metatarsalgia include:

• Incorrect footwear e.g. Heels adding to much pressure or just shoes that are too tight
• Overweight
• Age e.g. as people grow older the fat pads on the ball of your foot wear thinner and thinner which causes extra strain on the metatarsals.
• Ankle stiffness
• High impact exercises causing repetitive trauma to the area

Treatment of Metatarsalgia has been found to be effective using the cold/low level laser therapy in the reduction of inflammation and improving the microcirculation within the foot for a faster healing time than with ice and rest. Cold laser therapy also known as low level laser therapy is a relatively new treatment option used by many medical institutes as it’s a quick and effective therapy for reducing inflammation.

Protocol for treatment of pain in foot:

In the treatment of Metatarsalgia, two cold laser emitters are placed on either side of the affected area in a sandwich fashion to gain the maximum results.

The first protocol inhibits nociception and any associated myospasms and involves the laser being placed on the affected region for 5 minutes either 2 or 3 times per week. The amount of visits follows a decade rule, meaning that for every 10 years of age, 1 session is recommended for example; 30 years of age, 3 sessions required.

The second protocol or the tissue repair protocol is used to improve microcirculation and inflammation and involves 10-15 sessions with 1-2 visits per week lasting 1-2 minutes on each region affected.

For fast and effective treatment of Metatarsalgia or general foot pain, Lakeside Laser may be the right option for you. We are located in Gnangara, WA 6077—conveniently central to Perth’s northern suburbs.

We welcome visitors from across the region, including Edgewater, Craigie, Beldon, Mindarie, Iluka, Jindalee, Tapping, Carramar, Alkimos, and Joondalup.

To schedule an appointment or to discuss super pulsed laser treatment options, contact Dr Linda Schiller on 0468 429 111 or book online via our website: www.lakesidelaser.com.au.