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Rheumatoid Arthritis

High level laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with tissues and may assist with pain management and local inflammation. For people with rheumatoid arthritis, it may help improve comfort, joint function and quality of life when used alongside appropriate medical management.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks joint tissues, causing inflammation, stiffness and pain. High level laser therapy is not a replacement for rheumatologist-directed care but may be considered as part of a personalised supportive treatment plan at Health Wise Chiropractic in Sunbury and Melton.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes inflammation inside the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced mobility. High level laser therapy may help some people with rheumatoid arthritis by supporting pain management, reducing local inflammation and improving comfort around affected joints. However, it is not a cure for rheumatoid arthritis and should be considered as part of a broader management plan alongside medical care.

Rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects the hands, wrists, feet, knees and other joints, although symptoms can vary significantly between individuals. Early assessment and appropriate management are important because ongoing inflammation can contribute to joint damage and reduced function over time.

At Health Wise Chiropractic, practitioners in Sunbury and Melton assess each person individually to understand their symptoms, movement limitations and goals. High level laser therapy may be considered when appropriate as part of a personalised approach that may also include exercise advice, rehabilitation strategies, lifestyle recommendations and referral to other healthcare professionals when required.

Because rheumatoid arthritis is a complex inflammatory condition, treatment suitability depends on factors such as disease activity, medications, overall health and individual response.

What Is This Condition?

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition that primarily affects the joints but can also influence other systems throughout the body. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is mainly associated with age-related changes and wear of joint cartilage, rheumatoid arthritis occurs because the immune system becomes overactive and attacks healthy tissues.

The immune response primarily targets the synovium, which is the thin layer of tissue lining the inside of joints. This triggers inflammation, causing the synovium to become swollen and irritated. Over time, persistent inflammation can affect nearby cartilage, bones, ligaments and tendons.

Rheumatoid arthritis is considered a systemic inflammatory condition because it can affect more than just the joints. Some people may experience fatigue, general inflammation, reduced energy levels and symptoms beyond the musculoskeletal system.

What Happens Inside the Joint?

Healthy joints contain synovial fluid that helps reduce friction and allows smooth movement. In rheumatoid arthritis, immune activity causes inflammation of the synovial lining.

This inflammatory process may result in:

  • Thickening of the joint lining

  • Increased production of inflammatory chemicals

  • Swelling inside and around the joint

  • Increased pressure within the joint capsule

  • Irritation of surrounding muscles, tendons and nerves

  • Gradual changes to joint structures in some cases

When inflammation remains uncontrolled, it may contribute to joint erosion and deformity. Modern medical treatments have significantly improved outcomes for many people with rheumatoid arthritis, particularly when diagnosed and managed early.

Common Areas Affected by Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects smaller joints first, including:

  • Fingers

  • Hands

  • Wrists

  • Toes

  • Feet

However, it can also involve larger joints such as:

  • Knees

  • Shoulders

  • Elbows

  • Hips

  • Ankles

Symptoms often occur on both sides of the body. For example, a person may experience discomfort in both wrists or both hands, although symptom patterns vary.

Common Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Symptoms can range from mild stiffness to significant limitations in daily activities.

Common symptoms include:

  • Joint pain

  • Joint swelling

  • Morning stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes

  • Reduced joint movement

  • Warmth around affected joints

  • Fatigue

  • Reduced grip strength

  • Difficulty with everyday tasks such as opening jars or walking

  • Periods of increased symptoms known as flare-ups

Pain from rheumatoid arthritis is often related to inflammatory activity within the joint. However, people may also experience secondary muscular discomfort due to altered movement patterns, reduced activity levels or compensation around painful joints.

Acute Flare-Ups vs Long-Term Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis often follows a fluctuating pattern. Some people experience periods where symptoms are relatively controlled, followed by flare-ups where inflammation and discomfort increase.

During a flare-up, people may experience:

  • Increased joint swelling

  • Greater pain sensitivity

  • Reduced mobility

  • Increased fatigue

  • Difficulty completing normal activities

Between flare-ups, symptoms may improve, particularly when inflammation is well managed through appropriate medical treatment and lifestyle strategies.

Long-term rheumatoid arthritis requires ongoing management. The goal is usually not only reducing pain but also controlling inflammation, maintaining joint function and preventing disease progression.

How Treatment May Help

How High Level Laser Therapy May Help Rheumatoid Arthritis

High level laser therapy (HLLT), sometimes referred to as photobiomodulation therapy or therapeutic laser therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of concentrated light to interact with biological tissues.

For people with rheumatoid arthritis, high level laser therapy may help manage some symptoms associated with the condition, particularly pain, stiffness and local discomfort around affected joints. However, it is important to understand that rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, and laser therapy does not stop the immune system from causing inflammation or replace medical treatments prescribed by a GP or rheumatologist.

The main role of high level laser therapy in rheumatoid arthritis is supportive care. It may be used as part of a broader management approach designed to improve comfort, movement and quality of life.

At Health Wise Chiropractic, treatment recommendations are based on an individual assessment, considering symptom severity, current medical management, affected joints, functional limitations and personal goals.

How Treatment May Help

How High Level Laser Therapy May Help Rheumatoid Arthritis

High level laser therapy (HLLT), sometimes referred to as photobiomodulation therapy or therapeutic laser therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of concentrated light to interact with biological tissues.

For people with rheumatoid arthritis, high level laser therapy may help manage some symptoms associated with the condition, particularly pain, stiffness and local discomfort around affected joints. However, it is important to understand that rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, and laser therapy does not stop the immune system from causing inflammation or replace medical treatments prescribed by a GP or rheumatologist.

The main role of high level laser therapy in rheumatoid arthritis is supportive care. It may be used as part of a broader management approach designed to improve comfort, movement and quality of life.

At Health Wise Chiropractic, treatment recommendations are based on an individual assessment, considering symptom severity, current medical management, affected joints, functional limitations and personal goals.

How Does High Level Laser Therapy Work?

High level laser therapy uses specific wavelengths of light that penetrate into body tissues. Unlike surgical lasers that cut or remove tissue, therapeutic lasers are designed to stimulate biological responses within cells.

The light energy is absorbed by cellular structures, particularly mitochondria, which are responsible for producing energy within cells. This process may influence several cellular activities involved in tissue health and recovery.

Potential biological effects of photobiomodulation include:

  • Supporting cellular energy production

  • Modulating inflammatory responses

  • Influencing circulation around treated tissues

  • Supporting normal tissue repair processes

  • Affecting pain signalling pathways

These effects may contribute to reduced discomfort and improved function for some musculoskeletal conditions.

However, rheumatoid arthritis is different from conditions caused primarily by injury or mechanical overload. Because RA involves immune system activity, laser therapy should be viewed as a symptom-management tool rather than a disease-modifying treatment.

Potential Effects on Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

Supporting Pain Management

Pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis can come from several sources, including:

  • Inflammation within the joint

  • Irritation of surrounding tissues

  • Increased sensitivity of pain pathways

  • Reduced movement caused by discomfort

High level laser therapy may influence pain perception by affecting local inflammatory mediators and nerve signalling pathways.

Some research into photobiomodulation suggests it may help reduce pain levels in inflammatory and musculoskeletal conditions. However, results vary between studies, and the strength of evidence specifically for rheumatoid arthritis remains limited compared with other areas such as soft tissue injuries and some chronic pain conditions.

For some patients, reduced pain may make it easier to participate in exercise, rehabilitation and daily activities.

May Help Reduce Local Inflammation

Inflammation is a central feature of rheumatoid arthritis. When the immune system becomes overactive, inflammatory chemicals contribute to swelling, warmth and discomfort inside joints.

Photobiomodulation has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory effects. Laboratory and clinical research suggests it may influence inflammatory pathways involved in tissue irritation.

However, rheumatoid arthritis inflammation is complex and systemic. A local treatment such as high level laser therapy cannot control the underlying autoimmune process throughout the body.

People with active rheumatoid arthritis usually require medical management aimed at controlling disease activity, often involving medications prescribed by a rheumatologist.

Laser therapy may be considered as an additional supportive treatment for symptom relief in appropriate cases.

Supporting Joint Movement and Function

Joint stiffness is one of the most common complaints among people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Pain and swelling can lead to:

  • Reduced joint movement

  • Muscle weakness

  • Avoidance of activity

  • Reduced confidence with movement

By potentially reducing discomfort around affected areas, high level laser therapy may help some people move more comfortably.

Improved comfort can support participation in:

  • Strength exercises

  • Mobility exercises

  • Rehabilitation programs

  • Daily activities

Maintaining movement is important for people with rheumatoid arthritis because appropriate exercise can help preserve strength, flexibility and independence.

High Level Laser Therapy and Muscular Pain Around Rheumatoid Arthritis

Although rheumatoid arthritis primarily affects joints, many people also experience muscular discomfort.

Muscle pain may develop because of:

  • Guarding around painful joints

  • Reduced activity levels

  • Changes in movement patterns

  • Muscle weakness

  • Increased workload on surrounding tissues

For example, someone with painful knee joints may change the way they walk, placing additional stress on hip or lower back muscles.

High level laser therapy may be more relevant for these secondary soft tissue symptoms because muscles, tendons and other connective tissues may respond differently compared with inflamed joints.

A thorough assessment helps determine whether symptoms are mainly related to:

  • Joint inflammation

  • Muscle tension

  • Tendon irritation

  • Nerve-related pain

  • Referred pain from another area

Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain vs Nerve Pain

It is important to distinguish rheumatoid arthritis joint pain from nerve-related symptoms.

Joint-related rheumatoid arthritis pain may include:

  • Swelling

  • Warmth

  • Stiffness

  • Aching discomfort

  • Reduced movement

Nerve-related pain may include:

  • Tingling

  • Numbness

  • Burning sensations

  • Electric shock-like pain

  • Weakness

High level laser therapy may not be appropriate as the only approach when symptoms suggest significant nerve involvement or neurological changes.

Assessment is important to identify whether symptoms are coming from the joints, surrounding tissues, nerves or another source.

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.

Who May Benefit From High Level Laser Therapy?

High level laser therapy may be considered for people with rheumatoid arthritis who:

  • Have local joint or soft tissue discomfort

  • Want a non-invasive supportive treatment option

  • Are experiencing stiffness affecting movement

  • Have symptoms that limit exercise participation

  • Need additional strategies alongside medical care

Patients who may find it useful are often those who are looking for symptom support rather than a replacement for medical treatment.

Every person responds differently. Some people notice improvements in comfort or mobility, while others may experience minimal change.

Who May Not Be Suitable for High Level Laser Therapy?

High level laser therapy is not appropriate for everyone.

Extra caution or professional assessment may be required for people who:

  • Have uncontrolled or rapidly worsening rheumatoid arthritis symptoms

  • Have unexplained joint swelling

  • Have suspected infection in the treatment area

  • Have certain types of cancer affecting the treatment area

  • Are pregnant and require assessment of treatment suitability

  • Have serious medical conditions requiring specialist management

Laser therapy should also not delay appropriate medical care.

People experiencing significant disease progression, increasing joint deformity or uncontrolled inflammation should consult their GP or rheumatologist.

What Happens During Your Appointment?

At Health Wise Chiropractic, an appointment for high level laser therapy and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms begins with understanding your individual health history, symptoms and goals.

Because rheumatoid arthritis is a complex autoimmune condition, assessment is important before recommending any supportive treatment.

1. Health History and Discussion

Your practitioner will discuss:

  • When your symptoms started

  • Which joints are affected

  • Your pain patterns

  • Morning stiffness and flare-up frequency

  • Activities that aggravate or improve symptoms

  • Previous treatments

  • Current medications

  • Medical diagnoses

  • Any specialist care you are receiving

Understanding your overall health helps determine whether high level laser therapy is appropriate.

2. Physical Assessment

A physical assessment may include:

  • Observing posture and movement

  • Assessing joint mobility

  • Looking for swelling or movement restrictions

  • Checking surrounding muscles and soft tissues

  • Identifying areas contributing to discomfort

  • Assessing functional limitations

The goal is not only to identify where symptoms are felt, but to understand why they may be occurring.

For example, discomfort around a knee may involve:

  • Inflammation within the joint

  • Reduced muscle strength

  • Altered walking patterns

  • Tight surrounding tissues

  • Referred symptoms from another area

3. Treatment Planning

If high level laser therapy is considered suitable, your practitioner will explain:

  • How the treatment works

  • What areas may be treated

  • Expected sensations during treatment

  • How often sessions may be recommended

  • What other strategies may support your recovery

Treatment recommendations are individual and may change depending on symptom response.

4. High Level Laser Therapy Treatment

During treatment:

  • The laser applicator is positioned over the selected area

  • Light energy is delivered into the tissues

  • Most patients feel little or no sensation

  • Sessions are generally quick and non-invasive

High level laser therapy does not involve needles, cutting or injections.

Treatment duration depends on the area being treated and the protocol selected by the practitioner.

5. Aftercare Advice

Following treatment, patients may be provided with advice such as:

  • Gentle movement exercises

  • Activity modification

  • Mobility strategies

  • Strengthening recommendations

  • Self-management techniques

Patients are encouraged to monitor their symptoms and communicate changes during future appointments.

When Referral May Be Recommended

High level laser therapy may not be the appropriate first step if symptoms suggest a need for medical investigation.

Referral to a GP or specialist may be recommended if there is:

  • New unexplained joint swelling

  • Rapid worsening of symptoms

  • Significant loss of function

  • Signs of infection

  • Unexplained weight loss or systemic symptoms

  • Severe fatigue with other concerning symptoms

  • Suspected uncontrolled rheumatoid arthritis activity

Emergency medical assessment may be required for symptoms such as:

  • Chest pain

  • Severe shortness of breath

  • Sudden neurological symptoms

  • A severely swollen, hot and painful joint with fever

Home Care & Exercises

Exercise is an important part of rheumatoid arthritis management. Appropriate movement may help maintain joint mobility, muscle strength and physical function.

Exercises should be adjusted according to symptom levels, especially during flare-ups.

1. Gentle Range of Motion Exercises

Purpose:
Helps maintain joint mobility and reduce stiffness.

Instructions:

  • Slowly move affected joints through a comfortable range

  • Avoid forcing painful movements

  • Perform movements such as gentle wrist circles, finger movements or ankle rotations

Repetitions:

  • 10 repetitions per joint

Frequency:

  • Daily, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity

Progression:

  • Gradually increase movement range as comfort improves

2. Hand and Finger Mobility Exercises

Purpose:
Supports hand function and reduces stiffness.

Instructions:

  • Slowly make a loose fist

  • Open fingers fully

  • Spread fingers apart

  • Repeat slowly without forcing movement

Repetitions:

  • 10–15 repetitions

Frequency:

  • Once or twice daily

Progression:

  • Add gentle resistance exercises when approved by a healthcare professional

3. Seated Knee Extensions

Purpose:
Maintains knee movement and strengthens thigh muscles.

Instructions:

  • Sit upright in a chair

  • Slowly straighten one knee

  • Hold briefly

  • Lower with control

Repetitions:

  • 10 repetitions each leg

Frequency:

  • 3–5 days per week

Progression:

  • Increase repetitions gradually or add light resistance

4. Walking Program

Purpose:
Supports cardiovascular health, joint mobility and overall function.

Instructions:

  • Begin with comfortable walking periods

  • Maintain a pace where conversation is possible

  • Avoid pushing through significant joint pain

Frequency:

  • Aim for regular movement most days

Progression:

  • Gradually increase walking duration as tolerated

5. Gentle Stretching Routine

Purpose:
Maintains flexibility and reduces muscle tension around affected joints.

Instructions:

  • Choose comfortable stretches for major muscle groups

  • Hold each stretch without bouncing

  • Breathe normally

Repetitions:

  • Hold each stretch for 20–30 seconds

Frequency:

  • Daily or after exercise

Progression:

  • Increase duration gradually as flexibility improves

Prevention Tips

Because rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition, it cannot always be prevented. However, healthy lifestyle habits and appropriate management strategies may help reduce symptom severity, maintain function and support overall wellbeing.

Maintain Regular Movement and Exercise

Regular, appropriate exercise can help maintain:

  • Joint mobility

  • Muscle strength

  • Balance

  • Cardiovascular health

  • Independence with daily activities

Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, cycling and controlled strength training are often suitable options for many people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Exercise should be adjusted according to symptoms. During flare-ups, gentler movement may be more appropriate.

Support Good Posture and Joint Positioning

Maintaining comfortable posture can help reduce unnecessary stress on painful joints.

Helpful strategies include:

  • Avoiding prolonged positions without movement

  • Changing positions regularly

  • Keeping joints in comfortable alignment

  • Avoiding excessive strain on inflamed joints

For people with hand or wrist symptoms, using supportive positioning during activities may help reduce discomfort.

Optimise Your Workstation Setup

Many people spend significant time sitting at computers or completing repetitive tasks.

Helpful workstation strategies include:

  • Keeping screens at eye level

  • Supporting the lower back while sitting

  • Keeping shoulders relaxed

  • Taking regular movement breaks

  • Avoiding prolonged gripping or repetitive hand movements

A well-designed workspace may help reduce additional muscular tension around already sensitive joints.

Use Safe Lifting Techniques

People with rheumatoid arthritis may experience discomfort when joints are overloaded.

Helpful lifting strategies include:

  • Holding objects close to the body

  • Using larger joints and muscles where possible

  • Avoiding sudden heavy lifting

  • Using assistance for very heavy objects

  • Breaking heavier tasks into smaller steps

During periods of increased symptoms, reducing joint stress may be particularly important.

Prioritise Quality Sleep

Poor sleep can influence pain sensitivity, fatigue and overall recovery.

Helpful sleep strategies include:

  • Maintaining consistent sleep times

  • Creating a comfortable sleeping environment

  • Avoiding excessive screen use before bed

  • Managing stress before sleep

  • Using supportive pillows where appropriate

Good sleep supports the body’s ability to manage inflammation and physical stress.

Manage Stress Levels

Stress does not cause rheumatoid arthritis, but ongoing stress may influence:

  • Pain sensitivity

  • Sleep quality

  • Energy levels

  • Ability to manage symptoms

Helpful strategies may include:

  • Relaxation exercises

  • Breathing techniques

  • Mindfulness practices

  • Regular physical activity

  • Maintaining social connections

Maintain a Healthy Diet

While no specific diet cures rheumatoid arthritis, a balanced eating pattern can support general health.

Helpful dietary principles include:

  • Eating a variety of vegetables and fruits

  • Including adequate protein

  • Choosing healthy fats

  • Maintaining appropriate body weight

  • Limiting excessive processed foods

Nutrition advice should be individualised, especially for people managing chronic inflammatory conditions.

Follow Medical Management Plans

One of the most important strategies for rheumatoid arthritis management is working with appropriate healthcare professionals.

This may include:

  • Regular GP reviews

  • Rheumatologist appointments

  • Medication monitoring

  • Exercise and rehabilitation support

  • Symptom management strategies

Early and consistent management can help reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Recovery Timeline

The recovery and symptom improvement timeline for people with rheumatoid arthritis varies significantly between individuals.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition rather than an injury that simply heals after a fixed period. The focus of management is usually controlling symptoms, maintaining function and preventing progression.

High level laser therapy response also varies. Some people may notice changes in comfort relatively quickly, while others may require multiple sessions or may experience limited benefit.

Mild Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

People with mild or well-controlled rheumatoid arthritis may experience:

  • Occasional joint discomfort

  • Mild stiffness

  • Minor limitations with activity

With appropriate management, some individuals may maintain good function and experience long periods of symptom control.

Supportive strategies such as exercise, education and symptom management may assist ongoing wellbeing.

Moderate Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

People with moderate symptoms may experience:

  • More frequent joint pain

  • Regular stiffness

  • Reduced ability to perform certain activities

  • Periods of increased symptoms

Improvement may require a combination of approaches, including:

  • Medical management

  • Rehabilitation

  • Exercise progression

  • Lifestyle adjustments

  • Supportive therapies when appropriate

Progress is often gradual and may involve periods of improvement and flare-ups.

Persistent or More Severe Rheumatoid Arthritis

People with persistent symptoms or active disease may require ongoing specialist management.

Symptoms may include:

  • Significant joint inflammation

  • Reduced mobility

  • Functional limitations

  • Persistent fatigue

  • Structural joint changes

In these cases, high level laser therapy should only be considered as a supportive option alongside appropriate medical care.

How Long Does High Level Laser Therapy Take to Work?

The response to high level laser therapy depends on factors such as:

  • The severity of symptoms

  • The joints involved

  • Overall health

  • Current inflammation levels

  • Treatment consistency

  • Individual response

Some patients may experience improvement in comfort or movement after early sessions, while others may require a longer period of care.

A realistic goal is usually improved symptom management and function rather than eliminating rheumatoid arthritis.

Australian Statistics

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of Australia’s most common inflammatory arthritis conditions and contributes significantly to healthcare use, disability and reduced quality of life.

Reliable Australian health data indicates:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis affects approximately 2% of Australians aged 16 years and over, although prevalence varies between population groups.

  • Hundreds of thousands of Australians live with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthritis conditions.

  • Rheumatoid arthritis is more common in women than men.

  • The condition commonly develops during adulthood, although it can occur at any age.

  • Arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions represent a major contributor to chronic disease burden in Australia.

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect:

  • Physical function

  • Work participation

  • Exercise capacity

  • Mental wellbeing

  • Quality of life

Advances in diagnosis and treatment, particularly early use of disease-modifying therapies, have improved outcomes for many Australians living with rheumatoid arthritis.

Management commonly involves a multidisciplinary approach including:

  • General practitioners

  • Rheumatologists

  • Physiotherapists

  • Exercise professionals

  • Allied health providers

High level laser therapy may be considered as one supportive option within this broader approach when clinically appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can high level laser therapy help rheumatoid arthritis?

High level laser therapy may help some people with rheumatoid arthritis manage symptoms such as localised pain, stiffness and soft tissue discomfort. Research suggests photobiomodulation may influence pain and inflammatory processes, but it does not cure rheumatoid arthritis or replace medical treatments prescribed by a GP or rheumatologist.

2. Is high level laser therapy a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis inflammation?

High level laser therapy may influence local inflammatory processes in treated tissues, but rheumatoid arthritis involves a complex immune response throughout the body. Laser therapy does not control the underlying autoimmune disease and should be considered a supportive treatment alongside appropriate medical care.

3. Is high level laser therapy safe for people with rheumatoid arthritis?

High level laser therapy is generally considered a low-risk, non-invasive treatment when performed appropriately. However, suitability depends on individual health circumstances, medications and the location being treated. People with rheumatoid arthritis should discuss their overall condition with their healthcare providers.

4. Can I have high level laser therapy during a rheumatoid arthritis flare-up?

A rheumatoid arthritis flare-up involves increased inflammation and symptoms. Whether high level laser therapy is appropriate during a flare depends on the individual situation. Some people may benefit from symptom support, while others may require medical review first, particularly if symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening.

5. How many high level laser therapy sessions are needed for rheumatoid arthritis?

The number of sessions varies depending on factors such as symptom severity, affected joints, overall health and individual response. Some people may notice changes after early treatments, while others may require a longer management approach. Your practitioner can discuss a suitable plan after assessment.

6. Does high level laser therapy replace rheumatoid arthritis medication?

No. High level laser therapy does not replace disease-modifying medications, biologic therapies or other treatments prescribed by a rheumatologist. Medical management is essential for controlling rheumatoid arthritis activity and reducing the risk of joint damage.

7. What does high level laser therapy feel like?

Most people experience little or no sensation during high level laser therapy. Some may notice mild warmth in the treatment area, but the procedure is generally comfortable and does not involve needles or injections.

8. Can high level laser therapy help rheumatoid arthritis joint stiffness?

High level laser therapy may help some people manage discomfort associated with stiffness. By improving comfort, it may make movement and rehabilitation exercises easier. However, maintaining joint mobility usually requires regular movement, exercise and appropriate management strategies.

9. Who should avoid high level laser therapy?

High level laser therapy may not be suitable for everyone. Assessment is recommended for people with certain medical conditions, unexplained swelling, suspected infection, active cancer in the treatment area or symptoms requiring urgent medical investigation.

10. When should I see a doctor about rheumatoid arthritis symptoms?

You should seek medical advice if you experience persistent joint swelling, prolonged morning stiffness, unexplained joint pain, increasing difficulty with movement or symptoms affecting daily life. Urgent medical assessment may be required for severe swelling with fever, sudden neurological symptoms or significant systemic symptoms.

Why Choose Health Wise Chiropractic?

At Health Wise Chiropractic, care is focused on understanding each person’s individual symptoms, movement limitations and health goals.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a complex condition that requires a personalised approach. Our practitioners consider factors such as your symptom history, functional limitations, current management strategies and overall wellbeing when assessing whether supportive treatments such as high level laser therapy may be appropriate.

The approach at Health Wise Chiropractic includes:

  • Individualised assessments rather than a one-size-fits-all approach

  • Evidence-informed treatment recommendations

  • Education to help patients better understand their condition

  • Rehabilitation strategies to support movement and function

  • Advice tailored to your lifestyle and goals

  • Collaboration with other healthcare providers when appropriate

With clinics located in Sunbury and Melton, Health Wise Chiropractic provides care for local communities seeking evidence-informed support for musculoskeletal conditions.

Patients can access information, explore available services and arrange appointments through online booking options.

Clinic Tour 

Our Location Details 

Melton/Strathtulloh Chiropractor

 

 

Health Wise Chiropractic Melton: Located at 131 Wembley Avenue, Strathtulloh VIC 3338. Conveniently serving Melton, Aintree, and Cobblebank with after-hours and weekend availability.

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131 Wembley Avenue 

Strathtulloh- Melton

Ph: 03 9467 7889

Areas Serviced 

Melton 

Cobblebank 

Strathtulloh 

Weir Views 

Thornhill Park 

Eyensbury 

Rockbank 

Aintree 

Monday

7.00 Until 8.00pm

Tuesday

7.00 Until 8.00

Thursday

7.00 Until 8.00pm

Saturday 8.00am until Lunch 

Sunday Appointment Only 

Sunbury Chiropractor 

 

 

Health Wise Chiropractic Sunbury: Located at 21 Powlett Street, Sunbury VIC 3429. Featuring on-site private parking and 4 dedicated treatment rooms serving the Macedon Ranges.

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21 Powlett Street

Sunbury Vic 3429

Ph: 039467 7889

Areas Serviced 

Sunbury 

Diggers Rest 

Romsey 

Riddells Creek 

Bulla

Opening Hours: (updated August 2026)

Monday 

9.30AM Until 6.30PM

Tuesday

8.00AM Until 6.30PM

Wednesday 

8.00AM Until 7.00PM

Thursday 

8.00AM Until 6.30PM

Friday 

8.00AM Until 7.00PM

​​

Saturday:

8.00am Until 12.00pm

 

Sunday: Home Clinic 

For Terms and Conditions click here 

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