How Class IV Laser Therapy Can Help You

Class IV laser therapy is one of the most safe and effective ways to treat various conditions that cause foot and ankle pain. At Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers in Gilbert and Chandler, our skilled podiatrists have used laser therapy to produce effective results such as: 

• Accelerated cellular reproduction and growth, which is key in repairing the cells of cartilage, bone, tendons, ligaments, and muscle tissue.
• Reduced scar tissue that typically develops from specific injuries. When patients have less scar tissue, the likelihood of chronic pain also lessens.
• Decreased inflammation and increased blood circulation.

Understanding Laser Therapy for Pain Management

With 26 bones in the foot alone, as well as major ligaments, tendons, joints, and nerves, it’s not surprising that millions of Americans suffer various types of foot and ankle pain. Some of the most common sources include:

• Plantar fasciitis - which often creates moderate to severe heel pain
• Tendonitis including Achilles tendonitis, posterior tendonitis, and peroneal tendonitis
• Ankle sprains
• Neuroma or pinched nerves 
• Arthritis and inflammation
• Bunions
• Hallux limitus or a stiff big toe joint

Any one of these conditions can create chronic (long-term) pain or acute (short-term) pain.

But when the light source is placed against the skin, photons penetrate several centimeters down and are absorbed by the mitochondria—the energy-producing part of a cell. This energy results in the restoration of normal cell function but at an enhanced rate. This is the main goal of Class IV laser therapy.

Laser therapy is a quick and easy treatment. Our patients are able to relax during the procedure. In contrast to “cold lasers,” which provide no sensation, high-power diode laser therapy provides a warm, soothing feeling.

Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers are East Valley's leaders in restoring nails back to health, providing a natural and luminous appearance.

Class IV laser therapy is one of the most safe and effective ways to treat toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis. Fungal infections like this affect nearly 10% of the U.S. population. Individuals with diabetes are also more susceptible to this condition because of their compromised immune systems.

You may have it if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Yellow or other discoloration of your toenails
• Thickened or brittle toenails
• An unpleasant odor coming from the nail area
• Chronic discomfort 

While many people find toenail fungus to be unsightly, it can also lead to larger problems including:

• Infection of other toenails
• Ingrown toenails
• Spreading the fungus to others through public locker rooms, showers and pools, shared clothing, towels, and shoes, and even carpeting

Fortunately, laser therapy penetrates the nail bed and kills the fungus living underneath the nail, without pain and without any harmful side effects.

When the colony of fungus under the nail is “attacked” by the laser, the elements that make it fester are destroyed. This allows your nail matrix to begin growing new, healthy keratin, the protein that makes up our hair, skin, and nails. You'll be sporting open-toed sandals and bare feet again in no time!

In some cases, toenail fungus is a heritable condition. This makes treatment more difficult, but the professionals at Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers will pool their superpowers together and work with you on all available solutions.