CurrentPT, Physical therapist
Photobiomodulation (laser therapy)
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At a glance
- DC, ChiropractorChiropractorWithin scopeChiropractic boards we read allow therapeutic (non-surgical) lasers within chiropractic scope, usually on conditions such as FDA clearance, training and no cosmetic use.
- PT, Physical therapistPhysical therapistWithin scopeLaser and light therapy is a physical agent within physical therapy practice; state acts describe it in general terms, and some name light outright.
- PTA, Physical therapist assistantPhysical therapist assistantNot yet covered
- OT, Occupational therapistOccupational therapistWithin scopeOccupational therapists may use low-level laser as a physical agent within occupation-based treatment, though states often require added training or board approval first.
- OTA, Occupational therapy assistantOccupational therapy assistantNot yet covered
- AT, Athletic trainerAthletic trainerWithin scopeAthletic training acts we read name light among the physical agents athletic trainers may use, under physician direction.
- LMT, Massage therapistMassage therapistNot typicalMassage therapy laws we read leave laser and light therapy outside massage practice; Alabama's rules exclude laser therapy by name.
- CSCS, Strength and conditioning specialistStrength and conditioning specialistNot yet covered
- CPT, Personal trainerPersonal trainerNot yet covered
What it is
Shining low-power laser or LED light on a painful area, such as a tendon or joint, to try to reduce pain and help healing. It is also called low-level laser therapy or cold laser, and higher-powered versions are called high-intensity laser therapy.
Names across professions
| Profession | Term in practice acts | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Physical therapist | Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) | The term APTA's guidelines use |
| Chiropractor | Therapeutic laser; cold laser | Terms used in chiropractic board policies such as Tennessee's and Washington's |
| Across professions | High-intensity laser therapy (HILT) | Higher-power devices |
| Across professions | Light therapy | Some practice acts name light among physical agents |
What the bodies say
CurrentPT, Physical therapist
Achilles pain, stiffness, and muscle power deficits: midportion Achilles tendinopathy revision – 2024
CurrentPT, Physical therapist
Heel pain – plantar fasciitis: revision 2023
CurrentPT, Physical therapist
Lateral Elbow Pain and Muscle Function Impairments
CurrentPT, Physical therapist
Neck pain: revision 2017
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Terms on this page