How the CE MLS M7 Class IV Laser Helps You Heal Faster and Hurt Less

If you are dealing with joint pain, tendon irritation, stiffness, or slow recovery after activity, Class IV laser therapy may be a supportive option for improving day-to-day comfort and mobility. At Form & Function Orthopaedics in Portland, we use the CE MLS M7 Class IV laser, a next-generation therapeutic device designed to provide noninvasive pain relief for active adults, midlife patients, and individuals recovering from injury or orthopedic procedures.

What Is the CE MLS M7 Class IV Laser

The MLS M7 Class IV laser delivers concentrated light energy to targeted tissues using two synchronized wavelengths. This allows treatment of deeper soft tissue regions than many traditional cold lasers, while maintaining comfort and efficiency.

Laser therapy is:

• Noninvasive
• Performed in the clinic
• Comfortable and well-tolerated
• A potential option for short-term relief of muscle and joint pain

It is commonly chosen by individuals seeking effective, nonsurgical treatment for orthopedic and sports-related pain.

How Class IV Laser Therapy Works

During a laser therapy session, light energy is directed to the area of concern. The tissues absorb this energy, which is thought to influence local cellular activity and support circulation, contributing to temporary relief of pain and stiffness.

Sessions usually last 10 to 15 minutes, require no downtime, and fit easily into a busy schedule.

Many patients incorporate Class IV laser therapy as part of a broader treatment plan that includes physical therapy, activity modification, or orthobiologic procedures.

Conditions Commonly Treated with Class IV Laser Therapy

Laser therapy may be considered for a variety of orthopedic and sports medicine conditions, including:

• Tendinitis and chronic tendon irritation
• Muscle strains
• Overuse injuries
• Joint pain in the shoulder, knee, hip, or elbow
• Soft tissue soreness from training or daily activity
• Post-procedure stiffness or discomfort

This makes the CE MLS M7 laser a versatile tool for active adults, athletes, and individuals navigating midlife musculoskeletal changes.

How Laser Therapy Can Support Recovery After PRP, MFAT, or BMAC

Many patients choose orthobiologic treatments such as Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), microfragmented adipose tissue (MFAT), or Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) to address joint or tendon issues using their own tissue.

Laser therapy does not alter or enhance the biologic activity of these procedures. However, some patients schedule Class IV laser therapy after PRP, MFAT, or BMAC because it may:

• Support comfort during the early recovery period
• Reduce localized stiffness
• Help maintain gentle mobility while following rehabilitation guidelines

These uses are compliant because the laser is applied for temporary relief of pain and stiffness, not as an enhancer of orthobiologic treatments.

Laser Therapy After Surgery: A Supportive Add-On

Class IV laser therapy can also be considered after certain orthopedic surgeries as part of a structured postoperative care plan. While it does not accelerate tissue healing, patients may use laser therapy to help:

• Support postoperative comfort
• Reduce feelings of tightness around the surgical area
• Encourage ease of movement as rehabilitation begins

Laser treatments are always integrated at the appropriate postoperative stage and aligned with the surgeon’s recovery protocol.

Why Midlife and High-Performance Patients Choose Class IV Laser Therapy

As adults progress through midlife, especially during the perimenopausal transition, recovery often feels slower and joints may become more reactive to stress. Class IV laser therapy for joint pain appeals to many because it:

• Is noninvasive and medication-free
• Fits well into busy and active lifestyles
• Supports short-term comfort during recovery
• Complements physical therapy and strengthening programs
• Provides an option when patients want to stay active without additional injections or surgery

Laser therapy is one of the most versatile tools for orthopedic care, sports recovery, and nonoperative pain management.

What to Expect During Treatment

Laser therapy appointments are simple. Sessions take approximately 10–15 minutes, and there are no restrictions afterward. Some patients complete a short series of treatments depending on their diagnosis and goals, while others schedule periodic sessions for ongoing support.

Ready to Explore Whether Class IV Laser Therapy Is Right for You

At Form & Function Orthopaedics, our mission is to help you stay active with clarity, confidence, and a plan that supports your long-term joint health. The CE MLS M7 Class IV laser is one of several tools we use to support movement and comfort for patients in midlife and beyond.

If you are considering laser therapy for joint pain, tendonitis, sports injury recovery, or post-procedure comfort, visit f2ortho.com or call our office to schedule a consultation.

We will evaluate your condition, discuss treatment options, and help you build a plan that aligns with your goals for movement and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Class IV Laser Therapy

1. What is Class IV laser therapy?

Class IV laser therapy is a noninvasive treatment that uses concentrated light energy to support relief of muscle and joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. At Form & Function Orthopaedics, we use the CE MLS M7 Class IV laser as part of individualized treatment plans for active and midlife patients.

2. Is Class IV laser therapy FDA cleared?

Yes. Therapeutic Class IV lasers are FDA cleared for temporary relief of pain, muscle spasms, and stiffness associated with musculoskeletal conditions. They are not cleared to accelerate healing, regenerate tissue, or enhance the effects of biologic injections.

3. What conditions can Class IV laser therapy help with?

Laser therapy may be considered for:

• Tendinitis or chronic tendon irritation
• Muscle strains
• Overuse injuries
• Joint discomfort in the shoulder, knee, hip, elbow, and spine
• Post-procedure stiffness
• General soft tissue soreness

Your clinician will determine whether laser therapy fits your diagnosis and goals.

4. Does laser therapy speed up healing?

Laser therapy is not cleared to accelerate tissue healing. It may provide relief of pain and stiffness, which some patients find helpful during the recovery process.

5. Can I use laser therapy after PRP, MFAT, or BMAC?

Yes, laser therapy may be scheduled after orthobiologic procedures such as Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), microfragmented adipose tissue (MFAT), or Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC). Although it does not modify the biologic effect of orthobiologic injections, laser therapy can play a supportive role in a well-rounded recovery plan by addressing temporary discomfort and stiffness.

6. Is laser therapy safe after orthopedic surgery?

Laser therapy can be considered after surgery once your surgeon determines the appropriate timing. It does not replace postoperative protocols but may support comfort and mobility when used as part of a structured rehabilitation plan.

7. How many laser therapy sessions do I need?

Treatment frequency depends on your condition, severity of symptoms, and activity level. Many patients begin with a short series of sessions, although individualized recommendations vary.

8. What does laser therapy feel like?

Most patients describe laser therapy as warm, soothing, and comfortable. Treatments are quick, and there is no downtime afterward.

9. Can laser therapy help me stay active?

Laser therapy may support short-term comfort and mobility, which can help patients remain consistent with physical therapy, strength training, and other movement goals. It is often chosen by active adults who want noninvasive options to support their recovery.

10. How do I know if Class IV laser therapy is right for me?

A consultation is the best way to determine whether laser therapy fits your condition, goals, and overall treatment plan. At Form & Function Orthopaedics, we evaluate your symptoms, activity demands, imaging, and history to create a personalized approach.