Laser Therapy

What is laser therapy?

Laser therapy is a safe and noninvasive therapy modality that enhances the body’s natural healing process by promoting cell regeneration, tissue formation, collagen production, and blood flow. It can be used to treat chronic pain, inflammation, sports injuries, and other musculoskeletal conditions.

How does laser therapy work?

Injuries cause damage to the affected body tissue. To heal, the tissues need time to repair. The healing process occurs across three distinct phases: the Inflammatory Phase, the Fibroblastic Repair Phase, and the Maturation-Remodeling Phase. Laser therapy helps reduce the duration of each phase. During treatment, energy is emitted from the laser device and delivered into the body’s tissue—the tissue absorbs the laser energy and transforms it to chemical energy. The absorption of this energy supports the increase in cell regeneration, collagen production, and blood flow, which—in turn—help to reduce pain, inflammation, and general discomfort.

What can I expect from laser therapy treatment? 

Dr. Sheps has been administering High-Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT) for over two decades, providing his patients with a safe alternative to more invasive treatment options. During treatment, patients will feel some warmth, but the experience is otherwise painless and has virtually no side effects. Everyone has a unique threshold for heat, so it is important to inform Dr. Sheps if the heat becomes too intense at any point. The number of treatment sessions will vary depending on the patient and the injury in question. Typically, at least six to eight treatments will be necessary for acute conditions. Results and length of treatment will differ for more chronic conditions. 

What types of lasers does Dr. Sheps use?

Dr. Sheps uses Phoenix and Berman lasers in his therapy regimen, both of which are custom lasers unique for their high power and specific wavelengths; these properties allow for deeper and more effective penetration of the body’s tissue. Dr. Sheps rotates between these lasers because their various wavelengths and powers affect the tissues differently. The high intensity of Dr. Sheps’ preferred lasers distinguishes them from low-level cold lasers that are unable to penetrate the tissues as deeply or as effectively. 

*Individual results of treatment may vary.

Dr. Sheps’ Professional Accomplishments

Dr. Sheps is at the forefront of research for the next generation of lasers. He has collaborated with several manufacturers to advance medical laser technology and is dually recognized for his contributions to research and development and to health services research. 

Dr. Sheps collaborated with Biolase–a leading medical laser manufacturer–to develop the Epic T-series laser and the Diolase 10 Pain Therapy laser; he provided the original clinical research for both lasers. His findings on the safety and efficacy of specific wavelengths enabled the incorporation of these wavelengths into the Epic T-series and Diolase lasers. The combination of these unique wavelengths and the lasers’ higher powers allows for deeper penetration, which has been shown to improve the rate of healing.  

Dr. Sheps has also lectured internationally and has trained and certified numerous orthopedists, chiropractors, and physical therapists in laser therapy. He has personally treated several professional and college-level sports teams, including the U.S. National Female Gymnastics Team, the Los Angeles Clippers, and the UCLA Men’s Basketball Team. He has additionally served as a clinical advisor to the esteemed healthcare facilities that have adopted his laser therapy techniques, including the University of California Los Angeles, Johns Hopkins University, and The Hospital for Special Surgery in New York.

Patient Testimonials 

Laser therapy has positively impacted the lives of many of Dr. Sheps’ patients. The following are testimonials from some of the celebrated individuals with whom Dr. Sheps has worked: 

“I am thrilled that Dr. Sheps is on the advisory board of the Barak Ballet and also serves as our official Chiropractor. He helps keep our dancers feeling great and in tip-top shape.” – Melissa Barak, Artistic Director of the Barak Ballet

“Dr. Sheps is a genius. The pain is all gone. Hooray!” – Bobby Shriver, Former Mayor of Santa Monica, CA

“The orthopedic surgeon thought I would need crutches or a walker after a femur injury, but Dr. Sheps and his laser treatments solved the problem. I was pain free and crutch-free.” – Burt Bacharach, Award-Winning Composer

“If it wasn’t for Dr. Sheps, I don’t think I would have performed at such a high level. My recovery has been amazing!” – Mattie Larson, US Olympic Gymnast

“Dr. Sheps’ laser therapy works like magic! It was the only treatment to effectively heal the post surgical scar tissue in my knee. I’ll dance to that!” – Natalli Reznik, Professional Choreographer, Dancer, & Fitness Model 

“The treatments I received from Dr. Sheps got me back in the water faster than I ever thought possible. My ankle still feels 100 percent.” – Tanner Gudauskas, World Champion Surfer

Call our office at (310) 873-4422 to book an appointment!