In short
What is low-level laser therapy and how is it used at Rozelle Acupuncture?
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), also called photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of low-level light to stimulate a photobiochemical reaction in cells. It is non-invasive, painless and UV-free. At our clinic we use it for pain and musculoskeletal conditions, alongside cosmetic acupuncture, and as a needle-free way to stimulate acupuncture points.
Maria Cappello · Acupuncturist and Chinese Medicine Practitioner
- AHPRA registered Chinese medicine practitioner
- Member, Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA)
- BHSc (Chinese Medicine), University of Technology Sydney
- Published
- Last updated
What is low-level laser therapy?
In our commitment to providing holistic, evidence-informed therapies, Rozelle Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Centre is proud to introduce Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), also known as photobiomodulation or cold laser therapy.
This is an exciting addition to our clinic. LLLT uses specific wavelengths of low-level light to stimulate a photobiochemical reaction within cells, similar to how sunlight supports plant growth but targeted and therapeutic. It is non-invasive, painless and UV-free, and most people find it comfortable. Our device is FDA-cleared and CE-marked. Those are regulatory approvals for sale rather than proof that a device works for any particular condition, so we would rather tell you what a session actually involves than lean on the labels.
Why are we adding it to the clinic?
Because LLLT integrates beautifully with everything we already do:
- Pain and musculoskeletal conditions – used alongside acupuncture as part of a treatment plan, where the aim is pain and function rather than a promised rate of healing
- Cosmetic treatments – used alongside cosmetic acupuncture. The proposed mechanism involves collagen and elastin, though that is the rationale for using it rather than a demonstrated result
Is there a needle-free option?
Yes. We're also using LLLT as a needle-free option for patients who are sensitive to needles, including children. It is used to stimulate the same acupuncture points a needle would, without breaking the skin and with no sensation. We would not claim it is equivalent to needling: the two have not been compared head to head for the conditions we treat.
Which treatments include LLLT?
We are integrating LLLT into a range of treatment protocols across musculoskeletal, dermatological, and recovery-focused care. Individual responses vary, and we tailor each protocol to the patient's needs.
How do I book a session with LLLT?
To learn more or to book a session incorporating LLLT, call us on 02 9818 8517 or book online. You can also read about low-level laser therapy and laser acupuncture as standalone treatments.
About the author
Maria Cappello is the principal practitioner at Rozelle Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Centre. She holds a Bachelor of Health Science in Chinese Medicine from the University of Technology Sydney and trained under the clinic's founder, Jann Mehmet. Her own path to Chinese medicine began as a patient, through unexplained infertility and IVF. She is an AHPRA registered Chinese medicine practitioner and a member of AACMA.
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