How to Prepare Patients for Their First Photobiomodulation Therapy Session

As a clinician offering photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), helping your patients feel informed and at ease is key to long-term compliance and better outcomes.

This guide is designed to help you walk first-time patients through what to expect during their initial PBMT session using LightForce® therapy lasers—so you can improve confidence and set realistic expectations from the start.

 

The Basics: What Patients Should Know

PBMT is a non-invasive therapy that uses near-infrared laser light to stimulate cellular activity, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue healing. During the first session:

• The laser is applied directly to the treatment area.
• Sessions last around 5–15 minutes depending on the condition.
• Patients may feel gentle warmth, tingling, or no sensation at all.
• Most return to normal activity immediately.

 

Preparing Patients Before Their Session

Patients don’t need to make special preparations, but you can advise the following:

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to the treatment area.
• Stay hydrated prior to treatment.
• Discuss any medications, implants, or sensitivities before starting therapy.

Step-by-Step: What a Standard Session Looks Like

Here’s how to walk patients through the PBMT process:

1. Clinical Evaluation & Protocol Setup

You’ll begin with a brief assessment, reviewing:

• The patient’s condition
• Medical history
• Treatment goals
  Based on these factors, select the appropriate LightForce® laser protocol: wavelength, power, dose, and duration.

2. Positioning the Patient

Position the patient seated or lying down to ensure comfort and proper exposure to the affected area.

3. Laser Application

• Use the LightForce® therapy laser to deliver precise energy to the target tissues.
• Glide or hover the applicator head over the skin with controlled movement.
• Monitor patient feedback and adjust dosage or coverage area as needed.

4. Session Duration

Most treatments take 5–15 minutes depending on area size and number of treatment sites.

5. Sensory Feedback

Many patients report:

• A soothing warmth
• Slight tingling
• Occasionally, no noticeable sensation

Aftercare and Clinical Notes

PBMT requires no downtime. Patients can return to daily activity immediately. According to clinical literature and provider experience:

• PBMT is well-tolerated with few reported side effects.
• Some experience temporary soreness if deeper tissues are treated [Chow et al., 2009].
• Others report reduced pain or stiffness within 24–48 hours [Cotler et al., 2015].
• Encourage hydration post-treatment to support circulation and cellular metabolism [Hamblin, 2017].

Sources:

• Chow RT et al. The Lancet, 2009. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(09)61522-1
• Cotler HB et al. MOJ Orthop Rheumatol, 2015. https://doi.org/10.15406/mojor.2015.02.00068
• Hamblin MR. AIMS Biophysics, 2017. https://doi.org/10.3934/biophy.2017.3.337

 

Results Timeline: What to Tell Your Patients

• Acute or mild conditions: improvement may be felt after 1–3 sessions.
• Chronic or complex cases: typically require 6–12 sessions or more.
• Initial frequency: 2–3 sessions per week is standard to jumpstart results.

Common Patient FAQs (and How to Answer Them)

Does PBMT hurt?
No. The treatment is non-invasive and well-tolerated, with most patients reporting mild warmth or tingling.

Can it be used with other treatments?
Yes. PBMT is often combined with physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, or rehab programs.

Is it covered by insurance?
Coverage varies. Many practices offer affordable out-of-pocket options.

Why LightForce® Makes a Difference for Providers

LightForce® therapy lasers are engineered with advanced controls to support safety, comfort, and outcomes for providers and patients alike. Key features include:

• Customizable settings by condition and depth
• Visual guidance and treatment monitoring
• Reliable power delivery for consistent results
• FDA-cleared systems trusted by top health organizations and sports teams

 

Help Patients Feel Confident from Day One

When you clearly communicate what to expect, you not only help set realistic expectations—you build trust. LightForce® makes this easier with:

• Provider training and onboarding support
• Clinical protocols and safety resources
• Marketing tools to help educate patients

Schedule a demo to learn how LightForce® therapy lasers can elevate your clinical outcomes.