Knee Osteoarthritis
High level laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that may help reduce pain and improve function in people with knee osteoarthritis. Current research suggests it can provide short- to medium-term symptom relief for some individuals, particularly when combined with strengthening exercises, weight management and rehabilitation. Treatment recommendations should always follow a comprehensive assessment, as every person's arthritis and health history are different.
Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of knee pain and reduced mobility in Australian adults, particularly those over 50 years of age. The condition develops when the protective cartilage inside the knee joint gradually wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling and difficulty performing everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs or getting up from a chair.
High level laser therapy may help some people with knee osteoarthritis by reducing pain, supporting the body's natural healing processes and improving joint function. While laser therapy cannot reverse arthritis or regrow worn cartilage, research suggests it may reduce inflammation, improve local circulation and assist with pain management when used alongside exercise, education and rehabilitation.
Early management is important. Although osteoarthritis cannot currently be cured, many people successfully manage their symptoms for years without surgery through a combination of lifestyle changes, strengthening exercises and evidence-informed conservative care.
At Health Wise Chiropractic, our practitioners provide personalised assessments to determine whether high level laser therapy is appropriate for your condition. Patients from Sunbury, Melton and surrounding communities receive individual treatment plans designed to reduce pain, improve movement and help them stay active.
What Is This Condition?
Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that affects the smooth cartilage covering the ends of the thigh bone (femur), shin bone (tibia) and kneecap (patella). Healthy cartilage allows these bones to glide smoothly over one another during movement while absorbing the forces generated during walking, running and climbing stairs.
In osteoarthritis, this cartilage gradually becomes thinner, rougher and less effective at protecting the joint. As the condition progresses, changes also occur in the surrounding bone, joint capsule, ligaments, synovium (joint lining) and muscles. These changes contribute to pain, stiffness and reduced function.
Contrary to older beliefs, osteoarthritis is not simply a condition caused by "wear and tear." Modern research shows it involves complex biological processes affecting the entire joint, including low-grade inflammation, altered joint mechanics and changes in pain processing within the nervous system.
Knee Anatomy
The knee is the largest joint in the body and is responsible for supporting body weight while allowing movement.
Key structures include:
Femur (thigh bone)
Tibia (shin bone)
Patella (kneecap)
Articular cartilage
Menisci (shock-absorbing cartilage pads)
Cruciate and collateral ligaments
Quadriceps tendon
Patellar tendon
Joint capsule
Synovial membrane
Surrounding muscles including the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves and gluteal muscles
Healthy function depends on all of these structures working together.
What Happens During Osteoarthritis?
As cartilage gradually breaks down, several changes may occur within the joint:
Thinning cartilage
Increased joint friction
Bone remodelling
Formation of bone spurs (osteophytes)
Mild inflammation of the joint lining
Thickening of surrounding tissues
Reduced shock absorption
Muscle weakness
Altered walking patterns
Progressive reduction in mobility
Importantly, the amount of arthritis seen on an X-ray does not always match the amount of pain a person experiences. Some individuals have severe arthritis with little discomfort, while others experience significant pain despite relatively mild imaging findings.
Acute Flare-Ups Versus Chronic Osteoarthritis
Although osteoarthritis develops gradually over many years, symptoms often fluctuate.
Acute flare-ups
A flare-up is a temporary increase in symptoms that may last several days or weeks.
Common triggers include:
Increased physical activity
Long walks
Gardening
Sporting activities
Minor twisting injuries
Cold weather
Reduced physical activity
Prolonged sitting
During a flare-up, people commonly notice:
Increased pain
Swelling
Warmth
Morning stiffness
Difficulty walking
Reduced confidence on stairs
Chronic osteoarthritis
Over time, symptoms may become more persistent.
Common long-term features include:
Daily stiffness
Reduced walking tolerance
Difficulty kneeling
Pain after prolonged standing
Difficulty climbing stairs
Reduced balance
Muscle weakness
Reduced knee flexibility
Joint noises such as clicking or grinding (crepitus)
The condition usually progresses slowly over many years rather than rapidly worsening.
Common Symptoms
People experience knee osteoarthritis differently, but symptoms commonly include:
Pain during walking
Pain climbing stairs
Stiffness after resting
Morning stiffness lasting less than 30 minutes
Swelling around the joint
Clicking or grinding sensations
Difficulty kneeling
Reduced flexibility
Knee weakness
Feeling that the knee may "give way"
Difficulty standing from low chairs
Reduced ability to exercise
Symptoms often improve with gentle movement before becoming worse again after prolonged activity.
How High Level Laser Therapy May Help
How High Level Laser Therapy May Help Knee Osteoarthritis
High level laser therapy (HLLT), also known as Class IV laser therapy or high-intensity laser therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to deliver energy into injured or painful tissues. Unlike surgical lasers, therapeutic lasers do not cut or burn tissue. Instead, they are designed to stimulate biological processes that may help reduce pain and support tissue healing.
For people with knee osteoarthritis, high level laser therapy is not a cure and cannot regenerate worn cartilage. However, research suggests it may help reduce pain, improve mobility and enhance quality of life for some individuals, particularly when it forms part of a broader management plan that includes strengthening exercises, education and lifestyle modifications.
Every person responds differently. Factors such as the severity of arthritis, overall health, activity levels, body weight and adherence to rehabilitation all influence treatment outcomes.
How High Level Laser Therapy May Help
How High Level Laser Therapy May Help Knee Osteoarthritis
High level laser therapy (HLLT), also known as Class IV laser therapy or high-intensity laser therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to deliver energy into injured or painful tissues. Unlike surgical lasers, therapeutic lasers do not cut or burn tissue. Instead, they are designed to stimulate biological processes that may help reduce pain and support tissue healing.
For people with knee osteoarthritis, high level laser therapy is not a cure and cannot regenerate worn cartilage. However, research suggests it may help reduce pain, improve mobility and enhance quality of life for some individuals, particularly when it forms part of a broader management plan that includes strengthening exercises, education and lifestyle modifications.
Every person responds differently. Factors such as the severity of arthritis, overall health, activity levels, body weight and adherence to rehabilitation all influence treatment outcomes.
How Does High Level Laser Therapy Work?
Laser therapy works through a process known as photobiomodulation. Light energy penetrates the skin and is absorbed by structures within cells called mitochondria, often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell.
This absorbed energy may increase the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule that provides energy for normal cellular function. Increased ATP production may improve the ability of cells to repair, maintain and regulate surrounding tissues.
Laboratory research has shown that photobiomodulation may also:
Reduce inflammatory chemicals
Improve local blood circulation
Enhance lymphatic drainage
Support collagen production
Reduce oxidative stress
Improve tissue metabolism
Encourage healthy cell signalling
Modulate pain pathways
While these biological effects are well documented in laboratory studies, the degree of clinical benefit varies between individuals.
What Does Treatment Feel Like?
Most patients find laser therapy comfortable.
During treatment you may notice:
Gentle warmth
Mild tingling
No pain
No vibration
No electrical sensation
Protective safety glasses are worn by both the practitioner and patient throughout treatment.
Treatment usually takes between 5 and 15 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area and the severity of symptoms.
Most people can return to normal daily activities immediately afterwards.
Why Might Laser Therapy Help Osteoarthritis?
Although cartilage loss is the hallmark of osteoarthritis, pain often arises from several different structures within and around the knee, including:
Inflamed joint lining (synovium)
Bone beneath the cartilage
Ligaments
Tendons
Joint capsule
Surrounding muscles
Fat pad beneath the kneecap
Laser therapy may influence several of these tissues simultaneously by reducing inflammation and improving local tissue function.
Rather than changing the underlying arthritis itself, treatment aims to create a healthier environment within the joint that allows movement to become more comfortable.
Potential Benefits
For suitable patients, high level laser therapy may help:
Reduce knee pain
Improve walking comfort
Reduce morning stiffness
Improve knee flexibility
Reduce swelling associated with inflammation
Improve confidence during movement
Support participation in exercise rehabilitation
Improve stair climbing
Improve sleep disrupted by pain
Enhance overall quality of life
These improvements are generally greatest when treatment is combined with strengthening exercises rather than used as a stand-alone therapy.
Who Is Most Likely to Benefit?
High level laser therapy may be appropriate for people who:
Have mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis
Experience painful flare-ups
Have difficulty exercising because of pain
Want a non-invasive treatment option
Are recovering after aggravating their arthritis
Have stiffness limiting daily activities
Wish to reduce reliance on pain medication (under medical guidance)
Are waiting for orthopaedic review or surgery
Are not suitable for injections
Want to complement an exercise program
A comprehensive assessment helps determine whether laser therapy is appropriate for each individual.
What Happens During Your Appointment?
Your Initial Assessment
At Health Wise Chiropractic, every patient begins with a comprehensive assessment to determine whether knee osteoarthritis is the primary cause of their symptoms and whether high level laser therapy is appropriate.
1. Detailed History
Your chiropractor will discuss:
Where your pain is located
When symptoms began
Activities that aggravate or relieve your pain
Previous injuries or surgeries
Medical conditions
Current medications
Previous imaging such as X-rays or MRI
Exercise habits
Occupational demands
Personal treatment goals
This information helps identify factors contributing to your symptoms and guides an individualised treatment plan.
2. Physical Examination
Your examination may include:
Observation of your walking pattern (gait)
Assessment of knee alignment
Measurement of knee range of motion
Strength testing of the quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteal and calf muscles
Assessment of balance and functional movement
Palpation of the knee and surrounding tissues
Orthopaedic testing to assess ligament and meniscal integrity
Examination of the hips, ankles and lower back if referred pain is suspected
Because knee pain can originate from several different structures, a thorough examination is essential before treatment begins.
3. Clinical Diagnosis
In many cases, knee osteoarthritis can be diagnosed using a combination of:
Your history
Physical examination
Functional assessment
If your symptoms are unusual or more serious pathology is suspected, your chiropractor may recommend referral to your GP for imaging or specialist review.
4. High Level Laser Therapy Treatment
If appropriate, treatment may include high level laser therapy directed to the affected knee.
The laser is applied over specific anatomical structures, including painful joint lines and surrounding soft tissues. Protective eyewear is worn throughout the procedure.
Treatment is painless, with most patients reporting only a gentle warming sensation.
Sessions typically last 5–15 minutes, depending on the treatment area and your individual presentation.
5. Additional Care
Laser therapy is often combined with other evidence-informed treatments, such as:
Joint mobilisation where appropriate
Soft tissue therapy
Individualised rehabilitation exercises
Stretching programs
Activity modification advice
Education about osteoarthritis and pain management
Strengthening exercises for the hips and knees
Combining therapies often provides better outcomes than relying on a single treatment alone.
6. Aftercare
Following your appointment, your chiropractor may recommend:
Continuing normal daily activities within your comfort level
Applying ice if your knee is swollen after activity
Completing prescribed home exercises
Avoiding prolonged inactivity
Gradually increasing walking tolerance
Monitoring your response to treatment
Most patients are able to return to work and normal activities immediately after treatment.
Patients are encouraged to communicate any changes in symptoms so that their treatment plan can be adjusted as needed.
Home Care & Exercises
Exercise is considered the cornerstone of knee osteoarthritis management by Australian and international clinical guidelines. While high level laser therapy may help reduce pain and improve comfort, strengthening the muscles around the knee is one of the most effective ways to improve long-term function.
The following exercises are suitable for many people with knee osteoarthritis. However, they should be modified if they significantly increase pain. A mild increase in discomfort during exercise is often acceptable, but pain should settle within 24 hours. Always follow the advice of your healthcare practitioner.
1. Quadriceps Sets (Static Knee Tightening)
Purpose: Improve activation and strength of the quadriceps without placing excessive stress on the knee joint.
Instructions
Sit or lie with your affected leg straight.
Tighten the muscles on the front of your thigh.
Push the back of your knee gently into the floor or bed.
Hold for 5–10 seconds.
Relax slowly.
Repetitions: 10–15
Frequency: 2–3 sets daily
Progression: Increase the hold to 10 seconds and perform with a small rolled towel under the knee for added control.
2. Straight Leg Raises
Purpose: Strengthen the quadriceps while minimising compression through the knee.
Instructions
Lie on your back.
Bend one knee and keep the affected leg straight.
Tighten the thigh muscles.
Slowly lift the straight leg approximately 30–40 cm.
Hold briefly.
Lower under control.
Repetitions: 10–15
Sets: 2–3
Frequency: Daily
Progression: Add a light ankle weight once this becomes comfortable.
3. Sit-to-Stand
Purpose: Improve everyday strength for standing, walking and climbing stairs.
Instructions
Sit on a sturdy chair.
Place your feet shoulder-width apart.
Lean slightly forward.
Stand using your legs as much as possible.
Slowly sit back down.
Avoid dropping heavily into the chair.
Repetitions: 8–12
Sets: 2–3
Frequency: 3–4 times per week
Progression: Use a lower chair or hold light hand weights.
4. Step-Ups
Purpose: Improve knee strength, balance and stair-climbing ability.
Instructions
Use a low step.
Step up with the affected leg.
Straighten the knee fully.
Slowly step back down.
Maintain good knee alignment throughout.
Repetitions: 10 each side
Sets: 2–3
Frequency: 3 times per week
Progression: Increase the step height or perform additional repetitions.
5. Glute Bridge
Purpose: Strengthen the gluteal muscles, which help reduce stress on the knee during walking and standing.
Instructions
Lie on your back with knees bent.
Tighten your abdominal muscles.
Lift your hips until your shoulders, hips and knees form a straight line.
Hold for 3–5 seconds.
Lower slowly.
Repetitions: 10–15
Sets: 2–3
Frequency: 3–4 times weekly
Progression: Increase the hold time or perform single-leg bridges if advised by your practitioner.
Prevention Tips
Although knee osteoarthritis cannot always be prevented, many strategies can reduce the risk of symptom progression and help maintain long-term joint health.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess body weight increases the load placed through the knee joint with every step. Even modest weight loss can reduce pain and improve function in people who are overweight.
Keep Moving
Regular movement nourishes joint cartilage and helps maintain muscle strength.
Aim for a combination of:
Walking
Cycling
Swimming
Strength training
Flexibility exercises
Balance exercises
Avoid long periods of sitting whenever possible.
Strengthen Your Legs
Strong muscles act as natural shock absorbers.
Focus on strengthening:
Quadriceps
Hamstrings
Gluteal muscles
Calves
Core muscles
A progressive strengthening program is one of the most effective long-term treatments for knee osteoarthritis.
Optimise Your Workstation
If you sit for long periods:
Adjust your chair so your knees are approximately 90 degrees.
Keep both feet flat on the floor.
Stand and walk every 30–60 minutes.
Avoid remaining in one position for extended periods.
Lift Safely
When lifting:
Bend through your hips rather than rounding your back.
Keep loads close to your body.
Avoid twisting while carrying heavy objects.
Share heavy loads where possible.
Wear Supportive Footwear
Choose shoes that provide:
Good cushioning
Stable support
Appropriate fit
Adequate grip
Replace worn shoes regularly, particularly if you walk frequently.
Improve Sleep Habits
Quality sleep supports recovery and pain management.
Helpful tips include:
Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
Sleep on a supportive mattress.
Place a pillow between your knees when side sleeping if this improves comfort.
Avoid prolonged sleeping positions that increase stiffness.
Warm Up Before Exercise
Preparing your muscles and joints before activity can reduce discomfort.
Include:
Gentle walking
Dynamic stretches
Gradual increases in intensity
Manage Stress
Persistent pain and stress can influence each other.
Helpful strategies include:
Deep breathing
Mindfulness
Regular physical activity
Maintaining social connections
Seeking support when needed
Seek Early Assessment
Early assessment allows appropriate diagnosis and management before symptoms become more disabling.
If knee pain persists for more than a few weeks or begins limiting your daily activities, seeking professional advice can help you develop an effective treatment plan.
Recovery Timeline
Recovery from knee osteoarthritis varies considerably because the condition is chronic and progressive rather than an injury that completely heals. The aim of treatment is usually to reduce pain, improve movement and maintain independence rather than eliminate arthritis.
Mild Knee Osteoarthritis
People with early osteoarthritis often notice improvement within 2–6 weeks when they combine high level laser therapy with regular strengthening exercises and activity modification.
Many experience:
Reduced pain
Improved confidence walking
Better knee flexibility
Less morning stiffness
Moderate Knee Osteoarthritis
Individuals with more established arthritis often require 6–12 weeks of consistent management.
Treatment typically focuses on:
Reducing painful flare-ups
Improving muscle strength
Increasing walking tolerance
Enhancing balance
Improving function during everyday activities
Progress is usually gradual rather than immediate.
Persistent or Advanced Knee Osteoarthritis
For people with longstanding or advanced osteoarthritis, ongoing management is often required.
This may involve:
Periodic laser therapy during flare-ups
Progressive strengthening programs
Lifestyle modifications
Weight management where appropriate
Long-term home exercise
Collaboration with your GP or orthopaedic specialist if symptoms continue to worsen
Some patients eventually require injections or knee replacement surgery, while many continue to manage their symptoms successfully with conservative care for years.
Remember: Recovery Looks Different for Everyone
Recovery depends on many factors, including:
Severity of joint degeneration
Duration of symptoms
Age
General health
Muscle strength
Body weight
Previous knee injuries
Activity levels
Consistency with home exercises
Response to treatment
Your chiropractor will regularly reassess your progress and adjust your treatment plan to help you achieve the best possible outcomes.
The goal is not simply to reduce pain temporarily, but to improve your ability to stay active, participate in the activities you enjoy and maintain your quality of life over the long term.
Australian Statistics
Knee osteoarthritis is one of Australia's most common musculoskeletal conditions and a leading cause of chronic pain, disability and reduced quality of life. As Australia's population ages and obesity rates increase, the number of people living with knee osteoarthritis is expected to continue rising.
Knee Osteoarthritis in Australia
Approximately 2.1–2.3 million Australians are living with osteoarthritis, making it one of the country's most common chronic health conditions.
The knee is the most frequently affected weight-bearing joint.
Around 1 in 11 Australians (approximately 9%) have osteoarthritis.
Prevalence increases significantly with age, particularly after 45 years.
Women are more commonly affected than men, especially after menopause.
Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of pain, mobility limitations and reduced independence in older Australians.
Impact on Daily Life
Knee osteoarthritis commonly affects a person's ability to:
Walk longer distances
Climb stairs
Exercise regularly
Work in physically demanding occupations
Participate in sport and recreation
Sleep comfortably
Maintain independence
Enjoy social activities
Many people reduce their activity levels because of pain, which can contribute to muscle weakness, weight gain and further loss of function.
Economic Burden
Osteoarthritis places a significant burden on Australia's healthcare system through:
GP consultations
Physiotherapy and allied health visits
Diagnostic imaging
Prescription medications
Joint replacement surgery
Lost workplace productivity
Reduced workforce participation
The annual economic cost to Australia is estimated to exceed $10 billion, with indirect costs from disability and reduced productivity accounting for a substantial proportion.
Knee Replacement Surgery
For individuals with advanced osteoarthritis who no longer respond to conservative care:
Knee replacement is one of the most commonly performed elective orthopaedic procedures in Australia.
More than 60,000 knee replacement procedures are performed annually.
Many people can delay or avoid surgery for years through evidence-based conservative management, including exercise therapy, education and appropriate pain management strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can high level laser therapy cure knee osteoarthritis?
No. High level laser therapy cannot reverse cartilage loss or cure osteoarthritis. However, it may help reduce pain, improve mobility and support better function when combined with exercise and other evidence-based treatments.
2. Is high level laser therapy painful?
No. Most patients feel only a gentle warming sensation during treatment. The procedure is non-invasive and is generally well tolerated.
3. How many laser treatments will I need?
This varies depending on the severity of your osteoarthritis, your overall health and your treatment goals. Some people notice improvement after a few sessions, while others benefit from a longer course of care.
4. Can laser therapy regrow cartilage?
Current evidence does not show that therapeutic laser can regenerate significantly damaged knee cartilage in people with osteoarthritis.
5. Is laser therapy safe?
Yes. When performed by appropriately trained healthcare professionals using approved equipment and safety procedures, high level laser therapy has an excellent safety profile.
6. Should I keep exercising if I have knee osteoarthritis?
Yes. Exercise is one of the most effective treatments for knee osteoarthritis. Your exercise program should be tailored to your individual abilities and progressed gradually.
7. Can I have laser therapy after a knee replacement?
In some situations, laser therapy may be appropriate for managing soft tissue discomfort after surgery. Your chiropractor will determine whether treatment is suitable and may liaise with your surgeon or GP if required.
8. When should I see a healthcare professional?
You should seek assessment if your knee pain persists for several weeks, is worsening, limits your daily activities or is associated with significant swelling, instability or locking.
9. When is urgent medical attention needed?
Seek urgent medical assessment if you experience severe pain following significant trauma, are unable to bear weight, develop a hot and swollen joint with fever, or notice sudden calf swelling, chest pain or shortness of breath.
10. Can high level laser therapy be combined with other treatments?
Yes. High level laser therapy is commonly combined with strengthening exercises, manual therapy, rehabilitation programs and advice on activity modification to provide a comprehensive approach to managing knee osteoarthritis.
Why Choose Health Wise Chiropractic?
At Health Wise Chiropractic, we understand that living with knee osteoarthritis can affect every aspect of daily life—from walking the dog and gardening to climbing stairs or enjoying your favourite sport. Our goal is to help you move more comfortably and confidently through evidence-informed, personalised care.
Patients visiting our Sunbury and Melton clinics receive a comprehensive assessment to identify the factors contributing to their knee pain before any treatment recommendations are made. We recognise that no two cases of osteoarthritis are the same, which is why every management plan is tailored to the individual.
Depending on your presentation, your treatment plan may include high level laser therapy, hands-on care where appropriate, progressive rehabilitation exercises, mobility training and practical education to help you manage your condition independently.
Our experienced chiropractors focus on current clinical evidence and work collaboratively with your GP or specialist when referral or co-management is appropriate. We emphasise active rehabilitation and long-term self-management rather than passive treatment alone.
With convenient online bookings, modern facilities and a patient-centred approach, Health Wise Chiropractic supports people from Sunbury, Melton and surrounding communities in achieving better movement, improved function and greater confidence in everyday life.