Cold Laser Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) in Perth
Introduction
RA is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterised by joint inflammation, synovitis, pain, stiffness, swelling, and over time potential for joint damage and reduced function. While pharmacologic agents (DMARDs, biologics) are central, adjunctive therapies that can reduce symptoms, improve function, and enhance quality of life are very valuable.
Common Symptoms
- Persistent pain and swelling in multiple joints (hands, wrists, knees, etc.)
- Morning stiffness often lasting > 30 minutes
- Reduced grip strength, difficulty with daily tasks (opening jars, turning taps, writing)
- Possibly fatigue, general malaise, sometimes systemic symptom.
How Laser Therapy Helps
- Anti-inflammatory effects: lower expression of inflammatory cytokines (e.g. IL-6), reduce synovitis, reduce joint swelling in animal/human models.
- Pain relief: via peripheral and possibly central modulation; reduction in pain improves ability to move joint and reduce stiffness.
- Improve function: better mobility, strength (especially hands), easier to perform daily activities.
- Promote reversible tissue repair: may help cartilage, synovial membrane health in early disease when damage is not permanent.
Integration with Chiropractic, Laser & Other Modalities
For RA, the best approach is multi-pronged:
- Medical treatment: Continue DMARDs/biologics under rheumatology supervision; laser does not replace these.
- Physical / hand therapy: ROM exercises, strengthening, joint protection, splinting where needed.
- Chiropractic care: Joint mobilisations possibly, spinal support, posture, to aid mobility and reduce compensatory stress.
- Lifestyle: Nutrition, sleep, stress management; avoid flares.
- Laser therapy: Regular sessions targeting affected joints, paired with exercise and therapy to maximise functional gains.
Recent Research
o Included multiple controlled trials, found that LLLT significantly improved grip strength and reduced morning stiffness.
o Analysis of 22-23 studies, found similar results: improvements in grip strength and morning stiffness but inconsistent pain relief; heterogeneity in laser parameters.
Book an Appointment
If you're having persistent pain and swelling in multiple joints, book in for an assessment to find out if rheumatoid arthritis is behind it. Cold laser therapy may be a helpful part of your recovery.
📍 Find us in Joondalup
📅 Book online at coldlaserperth.com.au
While outcomes can vary, many patients find this multi-modal approach helps improve over time. If you are having any pain, feel free to contact Cold Laser Perth at Lakeside Chiropractic at 9300 0095 to see how we may be able to help or visit our website at www.coldlaserperth.com.au for more information.
📍 Serving the Joondalup & Northern Suburbs of Perth Lakeside Chiropractic is central to the northern suburbs of Perth, located in the City of Joondalup. If you are in the surrounding suburbs such as Yanchep - 6035, Tapping - 6065, Carramar - 6031, Currambine - 6028, Wanneroo - 6065, Heathridge - 6027, Edgewater - 6027, Gnangara - 6077, Mullaloo - 6027, Padbury - 6025, Kingsley - 6026, Woodvale - 6026, Banksia Grove - 6031, or Duncraig - 6023, our team is here to assist you.
References:
- Lourinho, I., Sousa, T., Jardim, R., Pinto, A. C., & Iosimuta, N. (2023). Effects of low-level laser therapy in adults with rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials. PLoS ONE, 18(9), e0291345. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0291345
- Salajegheh, A., Yazdi Yahyaabadi, F., & Yazdi, F. (2024). Low level laser therapy and rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis study. European Journal of Translational Myology, 34(4), 13107. https://doi.org/10.4081/ejtm.2024.13107
Dr. Kaitlyn (Yun Qi) Lau
I was first introduced to the world of Chiropractic in my teenage years, when I was given the opportunity to observe my cousin who is a chiropractor. During my brief time in observation, I witnessed the wonder of chiropractic and it was truly a miracle to me, seeing how it can change a person’s life. An old lady came in limping with chronic pain, after the treatment, she walked out perfectly fine with a big smile on her face. She held onto my hand to say thank you to me, even though I was just standing there doing nothing. It filled with me with such joy and fulfillment that in that instance, I made up my mind to become a chiropractor, no matter what it took. I graduated from Murdoch University with Distinction honours in 2016. During these 5 years at University, I participated in a 2 week placement in Northern India, called “Hands on India”, helping to raise over $80,000 to assist the communities living in poverty there, in return, I gained a wealth of knowledge and I was humbled by the amazing people there. In my role at Lakeside Chiropractic, I endeavor to provide excellent Chiropractic care and health advice to our community. I keep myself current with the best available research and professional development opportunities. I absolutely love being a Chiropractor and find that one of the most rewarding parts is being able to assist my patients in expressing their optimal health. My special interests are cervicogenic migraine, TMJ and sciatic pain. I especially love helping our moms-to-be achieve their best shape along the journey, this lead me to recently attended seminars for women’s fertility and pregnancy care essentials. Outside of the clinic, I enjoy my routine of going to yoga and pilates 3 times a week, as well as being a couch potato in front of TV with family. Born and raised in Malaysia, I am also fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin.
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