Class IV Laser Therapy at Premier Spine Institute PLLC
What Is Class IV Laser Therapy?
Class IV (or “high-intensity”) laser therapy is a non-invasive, light-based treatment modality that uses high-power lasers to penetrate deeply into tissues. The laser energy stimulates cellular repair mechanisms, increases circulation, reduces inflammation, and accelerates healing. Unlike lower-level cold lasers, Class IV lasers deliver higher power, which allows deeper penetration and more significant therapeutic effect.
At Premier Spine Institute PLLC, we integrate Class IV laser therapy into our conservative, non-surgical options for spine, neck, and musculoskeletal pain management.
Benefits of Class IV Laser Therapy
Some of the key benefits our patients may experience include:
- Pain relief — Reduces pain signals and calms irritated nerves
- Reduced inflammation and swelling — Helps to modulate inflammatory responses
- Accelerated tissue repair and regeneration — Stimulates cellular metabolism and healing
- Enhanced blood circulation — Improves nutrient and oxygen delivery to injured tissues
- Non-invasive and safe — No needles, no incisions, minimal risk
- Adjunct to other therapies — Can complement physical therapy, chiropractic, or injections
- Faster recovery — Many patients notice improvements more quickly than with conservative therapy alone
How It Works / Treatment Process
- Evaluation & Consultation
Before starting laser therapy, Dr. Ngu or a qualified provider will evaluate your condition, review your imaging (if any), and determine whether you are a good candidate. - Treatment Planning
A personalized plan is made — defining which spinal levels or areas will be treated, the laser dose, and how many sessions are likely needed. - Application
During a session, a handheld laser device is positioned over the target areas (neck, back, facets, paraspinal muscles, etc.). The laser is moved slowly over the skin. Each treated zone receives a predetermined “dose” of energy (measured in joules). - Aftercare
There is no downtime. You may resume normal activities, though your provider may recommend rest or supportive measures (ice/heat, gentle stretching). Sometimes, combining treatments like physical therapy or modalities enhances outcomes. - Progress Monitoring
At intervals, we assess your symptoms, functional improvement, and may adjust the protocol accordingly.
Typical Treatment Schedule / Sessions
| Condition | Frequency | Duration per Session | Typical Cumulative Sessions |
| Acute Pain | 2–3 times per week | 8–20 minutes (depending on area) | 6 sessions |
| Chronic Pain | 2–3 times per week | 8–20 minutes | 12 sessions |
- Most patients begin to notice reductions in pain or stiffness within the first few sessions.
- The full therapeutic effect usually emerges over subsequent sessions as healing progresses.
- Your provider may adjust the number of sessions based on severity, chronicity, and overall response to therapy.
Conditions Treated with Class IV Laser Therapy
At Premier Spine Institute PLLC, Class IV laser therapy may be used (alone or as part of a comprehensive plan) for conditions such as:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Facet joint arthropathy
- Radiculopathy / pinched nerves
- Sciatica
- Spine muscle strains / spasms
- Post-operative pain (when healing allows)
- Chronic back or neck pain
- Soft tissue injuries (ligament, tendon, muscle) adjacent to the spine
- Osteoarthritis-related spinal pain
It is important to note that not every patient or every condition is a candidate. Your provider will determine appropriateness based on your medical history, imaging, and overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Class IV laser therapy safe?
Yes — when delivered by trained professionals, it is considered safe. Adverse events are rare. Eye protection is required during the procedure. Some patients may feel a mild warming or tingling sensation.
How quickly will I feel relief?
Some patients report improvement (pain reduction or loosening of tight muscles) even after the first session. However, optimal results usually accumulate over multiple treatments.
Does it hurt?
Treatment is typically painless. You may feel mild warmth but no sharp pain. If any discomfort occurs, the clinician can adjust settings.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects are minimal. Rarely, temporary redness or slight irritation of the skin may occur, but this usually resolves quickly.
Who is not a candidate?
Laser therapy is contraindicated in certain cases, such as:
- Over malignant tumors
- Over areas of active bleeding
- Over eyes or thyroid
- In pregnant women (over the abdominal or pelvic area)
- In patients with photosensitivity, certain medications making skin light-sensitive, or with pacemakers (in specific cases)
Your provider will screen for contraindications and precautions.
How long do results last?
The duration of benefit varies. Many patients enjoy sustained relief, especially when laser is integrated into a broader rehabilitation or maintenance plan (exercise, posture correction, etc.). Periodic maintenance sessions may help.
Can this replace surgery?
Class IV laser therapy is considered a conservative, non-surgical option. It may reduce or delay the need for surgery in certain patients, especially when used early in the disease process or in conjunction with other therapies. However, it is not a substitute for surgery when structural instability, severe compression, or neurological compromise mandates operative intervention.
Why Choose Premier Spine Institute PLLC for Laser Therapy?
- Expert oversight — Treatments guided by Dr. Ngu, a board-certified spine surgeon
- Comprehensive care — Laser therapy is integrated into our full spectrum of spine and pain management services
- Personalized plans — We tailor dose, frequency, and combinations (physical therapy, injections, etc.)
- Patient-focused — Emphasis on transparency, safety, and education
If you’re struggling with chronic neck or back pain, radiculopathy, or musculoskeletal discomfort, Class IV laser therapy may be a valuable addition to your treatment plan. Contact us today or request an appointment to see whether this advanced modality is right for you.