Podiatric problems like persistent foot and ankle pain or ugly and embarrassing fungal toenails can threaten to get between you and your active Montana lifestyle. Fortunately, there's help. Laser therapy represents a breakthrough in podiatric medicine, offering patients a scientifically proven method to accelerate healing and reduce discomfort.
At Alpine Foot & Ankle Clinic, our experienced Missoula podiatrist, Dr. Gregg Neibauer, uses this advanced technology to address wide-ranging conditions, promoting natural healing, reducing pain, and restoring function—all without surgery, medication, or lengthy recovery periods.
Here's what you should know about this innovative treatment and how we use it to help Montana and northern Idaho patients get back on their feet and back to their favorite activities.
How Laser Therapy Works to Heal Your Feet
Alpine Foot & Ankle Clinic's state-of-the-art Class IV laser technology delivers specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light that penetrate deep into your skin, reaching damaged tissues, bones, nerves, ligaments, and tendons.
When these therapeutic light waves reach the affected area, they trigger several beneficial biological processes. The laser energy stimulates cellular metabolism, increases blood circulation, and promotes ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, which powers cellular repair and regeneration. This process helps reduce inflammation, accelerate tissue healing, and provide significant relief.
Laser therapy is a comfortable experience for most patients. While the treatment is generally painless, some individuals report experiencing a gentle tingling sensation or warm, soothing feeling during their session. This sensation often indicates that the healing process has begun.
Conditions We Treat With Laser Therapy in Missoula
Our Missoula podiatrist uses laser therapy to address various foot and ankle conditions that can interfere with your daily activities and quality of life. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain or acute injuries, laser therapy can provide the relief you've been seeking.
Dr. Neibauer often recommends Class IV laser therapy for the following podiatric problems.
-
Heel pain and plantar fasciitis. If morning heel pain or persistent discomfort keeps you from hiking Montana's trails or participating in your favorite activities, laser therapy can help reduce inflammation in the plantar fascia and surrounding tissues. Most patients experience significant improvement after just a few sessions.
-
Fungal toenail infections. Embarrassing, thick, discolored toenails respond exceptionally well to laser treatment. Our advanced laser technology penetrates the nail and surrounding tissue to eliminate fungal infections without the side effects associated with oral medications.
-
Arthritis pain. Joint inflammation and stiffness can make every step uncomfortable. Laser therapy helps reduce arthritic pain by decreasing inflammation and promoting healing in affected joints.
-
Inflammatory conditions. Bursitis, tendonitis, and other inflammatory conditions respond well to laser therapy's anti-inflammatory effects, helping restore normal function and reduce pain.
The Advantages of Choosing Laser Therapy
Laser therapy offers superior convenience and effectiveness compared to other treatments. Unlike surgical procedures that require weeks of recovery time, most patients can resume their normal activities immediately after their laser therapy session. Laser therapy requires no incisions, no medications, and no lengthy rehabilitation periods.
The treatment itself typically takes 15 to 20 minutes, making it easy to fit into your busy schedule. Most conditions require a series of treatments for optimal results, but many patients begin experiencing relief after their first few sessions.
Laser therapy also offers a safe alternative for patients who cannot take oral medications due to health conditions or those who prefer to avoid the potential side effects of traditional treatments. The therapy has no known adverse effects and can be used alongside other treatments if necessary.
What to Expect During Your Laser Therapy Session
During your first visit to our Missoula office, Dr. Neibauer will conduct a thorough examination to determine if laser therapy is appropriate for your specific condition. He'll explain how the treatment works and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your needs, goals, and lifestyle.
Each laser therapy session takes place in our comfortable treatment room. You'll relax comfortably while the laser delivers therapeutic light to the affected area. There's no need for special preparation, and you can return to work or other activities immediately following your appointment.
The number of sessions required varies depending on your condition, its severity, and how your body responds to treatment. Acute conditions often require fewer sessions, while chronic issues may need more treatments to achieve optimal results. Dr. Neibauer will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.