FAQ about Osteopathy, Shockwave Therapy & Acupuncture

High Power Laser Therapy is used for pain management, inflammation reduction, and accelerated tissue healingacross a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. It is particularly effective for tendon injuries, joint pain, muscle strains, nerve-related pain, and chronic inflammatory conditions where conventional treatments alone have not been sufficient. At Movement Mechanics, laser therapy is commonly used alongside osteopathy and shockwave therapy to support both acute injuries and long-standing pain conditions.

High Power Laser Therapy differs from low-level or cosmetic laser devices in both power output and depth of penetration. Medical-grade systems such as the EMS DolorClast® High Power Laser deliver significantly higher energy in a controlled manner, allowing therapeutic light to reach deeper tissues such as tendons, ligaments, joints, and neural structures. This deeper penetration enables more meaningful biological effects, including improved cellular metabolism, inflammation regulation, and pain modulation without damaging tissue.

High Power Laser Therapy does not simply mask pain. It works by modulating the inflammatory response, improving microcirculation, and supporting normal cellular repair processes. This allows inflammation to resolve more efficiently rather than being suppressed. Unlike anti-inflammatory medications, laser therapy supports healing without inhibiting collagen synthesis or tissue regeneration, making it suitable for both acute and chronic inflammatory conditions.

Yes. High Power Laser Therapy is widely used in the management of chronic musculoskeletal pain, including tendinopathies, osteoarthritis, persistent back pain, and nerve-related pain. By improving mitochondrial function and reducing pain sensitivity at a neural level, laser therapy can be particularly beneficial where pain has become persistent or centrally sensitised. Clinical outcomes are strongest when laser therapy is integrated into a broader treatment plan, including manual therapy, load management, and rehabilitation.

Most patients experience a gentle warming sensation during treatment, though some feel very little at all. Treatments are generally comfortable and well tolerated, even in sensitive or painful areas. There is no need for anaesthetic, and treatment does not involve mechanical pressure or needles.

The number of sessions required depends on the nature, severity, and duration of the condition being treated. Acute conditions may respond within a small number of sessions, while chronic or degenerative conditions may require a structured treatment plan over several weeks. Your osteopath will outline a personalised plan following a full clinical assessment.

When delivered by trained clinicians, High Power Laser Therapy is considered safe and low risk. The EMS DolorClast® High Power Laser includes advanced safety features to ensure controlled energy delivery and prevent overheating of tissue. Protective eyewear is always used, and treatment parameters are carefully selected based on tissue type, depth, and clinical presentation.

Yes, although they are limited. Laser therapy is not applied directly over known malignancies, over tattoos, the eyes, or the abdomen during pregnancy. Caution may also be required in individuals with photosensitivity or those taking certain light-sensitising medications. A full screening is performed prior to treatment to ensure laser therapy is appropriate for you.

The 905 nm wavelength interacts with cellular mitochondria, enhancing energy production (ATP) and improving cellular efficiency. This leads to: Reduced pain signalling Improved tissue oxygenation Normalisation of inflammatory processes Accelerated healing without tissue damage Unlike heat-based therapies, this effect is photochemical rather than thermal, meaning the therapeutic benefits occur without burning or injuring tissue when applied correctly.

In most cases, laser therapy produces only a mild warming sensation and is very well tolerated. However, certain factors can increase warmth during treatment: Very dark skin tones Areas with tattoos Superficial or sensitive tissue Our clinicians continuously monitor comfort levels and adjust settings to ensure treatments remain safe and comfortable.

Laser therapy is not applied directly over tattoos. Tattoo ink absorbs laser energy differently from skin, which can lead to: Excessive heat build-up Discomfort Increased risk of skin irritation If a painful area overlaps a tattoo, we adjust treatment zones or use alternative modalities such as shockwave therapy or manual techniques.

No. When delivered correctly, High Power Laser Therapy at 905nm using the EMS device does not damage tissue or burn the skin. The EMS system delivers controlled energy designed to stimulate biological repair rather than cause thermal injury. Any sensation of warmth is carefully managed, and treatment parameters are selected based on tissue type, depth, and individual response.

Yes — and this is often where outcomes are optimised. Laser therapy (including 905 nm wavelengths) is particularly effective for pain reduction and inflammation control, while shockwave therapy is highly effective for tissue remodelling and mechanotransduction. Used together, they offer a powerful, evidence-based approach to complex musculoskeletal pain.

We use the EMS DolorClast® High Power Laser due to its medical-grade power output, multi-wavelength capability, and proven clinical versatility. Swiss-engineered and used internationally in sports medicine and rehabilitation settings, it allows us to deliver precise, reproducible treatments across a wide range of musculoskeletal presentations. This aligns with our commitment to high-end, evidence-based care and optimal patient outcomes.

No. Laser therapy is non-invasive and does not require downtime. Most patients return to normal daily activities immediately following treatment, though activity modification may be advised depending on the condition being treated.

Most people describe treatment as a comfortable warming sensation across the area being treated.