MLS Laser Therapy for Knee Pain
If you're calculating every staircase or weighing whether to get a knee replacement, MLS Laser Therapy in Fairfax is the option you may not have heard about yet.
What's happening inside your knee
Your knee is one of the most complex joints in your body. It's working hard every time you walk, climb stairs, or stand up. When the cartilage cushion starts to thin, the joint capsule swells, or the supporting tendons get inflamed, the result is pain that doesn't stop.
You've probably been told the options are anti-inflammatories, cortisone shots, hyaluronic acid injections, or eventually knee replacement. Those aren't your only options.
How MLS Laser changes the conversation about your knee
The laser penetrates deep enough to reach the joint capsule, the surrounding tendons, and the bursa. The light energy reduces the inflammation that's making your knee feel hot, stiff, and painful. It also stimulates the cells around the joint to repair damaged tissue.
Patients who came in dreading knee replacement often leave our Fairfax office a few weeks later climbing stairs again, sleeping without the throb, and rethinking their timeline for surgery.
When knee replacement is and isn't the right call
Knee replacement is sometimes the right answer. We'll tell you straight if your case is genuinely beyond conservative care. But for many patients, MLS Laser Therapy combined with the right strengthening can buy you years of comfortable, active use of your own knee.
If you're being told you need surgery and you haven't tried laser therapy yet, that's a conversation worth having before you commit.
What your knee treatment plan looks like
The first visit is an evaluation, including a look at your imaging if you've had it. Dr. White examines the joint, watches how you walk and squat, and figures out what's truly driving the pain.
Sessions are short. Most patients come two or three times a week early on, then taper. We may also pair laser with chiropractic work on the hip and ankle so the knee isn't carrying more load than it should.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can MLS Laser help me avoid knee replacement?
For many patients, yes. The laser doesn't regrow cartilage, but it dramatically reduces the inflammation and pain that drive most replacement decisions. Combined with proper strengthening, patients often delay or skip replacement entirely. We can't promise it for every case. We'll be honest about what's realistic for yours.
How fast will my knee feel better?
Most patients notice some relief within the first three to five sessions. Bigger, lasting changes usually show up by session six to eight. We tell every patient up front: if you're not feeling real progress by then, we change the plan.
Does insurance cover this?
MLS Laser Therapy is generally not covered by insurance. We'll discuss the cost and payment options openly at your first visit. Most patients find the price reasonable compared to the long-term cost of medications, injections, and missed work.
What if I already had a knee replacement?
MLS Laser is safe and useful after knee replacement to speed recovery and reduce post-surgical stiffness. Many patients use it as part of their rehab plan. We'll coordinate with your surgeon as needed.
Will I feel anything during the session?
No. The treatment is painless. You'll feel a gentle warmth on the treated area. Some people fall asleep during sessions.