MLS LASER THERAPY

MLS Laser Therapy alleviates the painful symptoms commonly associated with musculoskeletal disorders, helping patients return to their daily activities more quickly.

Reduction in pain

Pain reduction related to pathology, trauma, medical procedures, and both pre-operative and post-operative conditions.

Reduction in oedema

Reduces and helps prevent oedema caused by illness, injury, or post-treatment effects. Can be used to relieve existing oedema or stop it from developing.

Biostimulation

Supports faster healing of soft and hard tissue damage resulting from disease or post-operative conditions.

What is MLS Laser Therapy?

The Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a cutting-edge medical technology that effectively reduces pain and inflammation while promoting tissue healing. This non-invasive treatment is used for a wide range of conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, arthritis, neuropathy, wound healing, and post-surgical recovery.

Developed by ASA Laser, MLS Laser Therapy was created to address the limitations of traditional laser therapy and is now featured in their advanced line of laser treatment devices.

How Does MLS Laser Therapy Work?

MLS Laser Therapy utilizes a patented dual-wavelength system to deliver targeted therapeutic laser energy to affected tissues. Unlike traditional lasers that operate with a single wavelength, MLS technology synchronizes two wavelengths for enhanced results:

  • 808 nm Continuous Wave – Penetrates deeply to reduce inflammation and oedema (swelling) by boosting circulation and lymphatic drainage, producing a strong anti-inflammatory effect.

  • 905 nm SuperPulsed Laser – Primarily targets pain by stimulating cellular activity, reducing nerve sensitivity, and promoting tissue repair and regeneration.

These two wavelengths are precisely synchronized to work in unison, amplifying their individual effects for a more powerful therapeutic outcome. The synergy between the continuous and pulsed emissions produces greater pain relief and inflammation reduction than either wavelength could achieve on its own.

Exclusive to ASAlaser devices, MLS Laser Therapy offers practitioners and patients a highly effective, non-invasive treatment option—addressing pain, inflammation, and oedema in a single session.

Understanding the advantages of MLS

The 905 nm laser used in MLS® technology is a true superpulsed laser, setting it apart from many so-called pulsed lasers that simply alternate between on and off states. This advanced laser delivers high-intensity energy in ultra-short bursts measured in nanoseconds. The extremely fast pulse rate prevents heat buildup in the treated area, ensuring complete safety regardless of how long the session lasts.

This state-of-the-art superpulsing capability dramatically increases peak power, enabling faster, deeper, and more effective therapeutic outcomes. In contrast, competitor lasers that lack superpulsing must restrict power levels to avoid overheating, making them less efficient and potentially less effective.

Key Functions of the 905 nm Superpulsed Laser:

  • Pain Reduction – Rapid pulses stimulate nerve cells, blocking pain signals and reducing nerve sensitivity. This results in immediate and long-lasting pain relief.

  • Enhanced Blood Flow – The high peak power improves microcirculation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues, accelerating the healing process.

  • Anti-Inflammatory Effect – The pulsed energy helps regulate the body’s inflammatory response by reducing pro-inflammatory markers and activating natural anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

  • Deep Tissue Penetration Without Heat – Short bursts of laser energy penetrate deeper layers without causing thermal damage, unlike basic pulsed lasers that may generate heat due to slower cycling.

Meanwhile, the 808 nm laser in MLS® therapy operates as a continuous wave, delivering a steady stream of energy to targeted tissues, ideal for reducing inflammation and swelling through enhanced circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Key Functions of the 808 nm Continuous Wave Laser

  • Reduction of Inflammation and Oedema – The continuous laser energy activates cellular processes, enhancing blood circulation and lymphatic drainage to effectively decrease swelling and inflammation.

  • Boosting Cellular Metabolism – The 808 nm wavelength is absorbed by mitochondria, increasing ATP (cellular energy) production, which accelerates tissue healing and regeneration.

  • Deep Tissue Penetration – This wavelength penetrates deeply into muscles, tendons, and joints, ensuring that therapeutic benefits reach the core of the affected tissues.

The 808 nm laser can be adjusted across a wide frequency range—from 1Hz to 2000Hz—to tailor its therapeutic effect:

  • Lower frequencies are ideal for addressing acute conditions.

  • Medium frequencies are most effective for chronic pain and inflammation.

  • Higher frequencies are used to reduce oedema and stimulate healing through enhanced biostimulation.

When combined with the 905 nm superpulsed laser, which focuses on pain relief and neurostimulation, the 808 nm laser completes a comprehensive treatment strategy—working together to accelerate healing, reduce inflammation, and restore function more effectively than either wavelength could alone.

Key Benefits of MLS Laser Therapy

MLS is an advanced laser therapy system characterised by

Pain Reduction 

Decreases nerve sensitivity and reduces inflammation.

Accelerated Healing

Enhances cellular repair and tissue regeneration.

Improved Circulation 

Increases oxygen and nutrient delivery to damaged tissues.

Non-Invasive & Painless 

No side effects, downtime, or discomfort.

Reduced Inflammation & Swelling

Helps conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, and bursitis.

Technical Features of MLS® Laser Therapy

  • Dual-Wavelength Technology – Combines 808 nm and 905 nm wavelengths to achieve deep tissue penetration with enhanced therapeutic outcomes.

  • Synchronized Emission – Unlike conventional lasers, MLS® precisely synchronizes both wavelengths to deliver consistent, controlled energy without causing excessive heat buildup.

  • Automatic and Uniform Delivery – An advanced lens system ensures accurate and even application of laser energy, providing consistent treatment depth and coverage.

  • Intelligent Power and Dosage Control – Built-in software automatically adjusts laser output to suit specific treatment protocols, optimizing results across a range of conditions.

  • Multitarget Modality with “Greek Key” Motion – This scanning pattern guarantees even coverage of the entire treatment area, eliminating overlap and ensuring uniform energy distribution.

  • Homogeneous Tissue Illumination – The MLS® handpiece features a high-efficiency optical group that produces a uniform laser beam. This ensures that all target cell photoreceptors are activated simultaneously and receive the precise therapeutic dose.

  • Advanced Scanning in Robotic Models – Robotic MLS® systems feature low divergence laser beams to minimize reflection and ensure homogeneous energy delivery without overlapping, resulting in highly controlled and efficient treatments.

  • Arthritis & Joint Pain
  • Sports Injuries (Sprains, Strains, Tendonitis Wounds, Ligament Injuries)
  • Neuropathy & Nerve Pain
  • Post-Surgical Recovery (Soft Tissue Repair, Post Surgical Pain))
  • Chronic Pain Conditions (Fibromyalgia, Sciatica)
  • Podiatric conditions (Plantar Fasciitis, Knee Pain)

Common Conditions Treated

Advanced technology

New MLS laser therapy products are regularly released including the following additions to the line-up of models

  • Fully robotic laser models available for hands-free treatment
  • Models equipped with laser acupuncture
  • All models feature superpulsed laser now up to 1,000 w peak pulse energy for faster, more effective and longer lasting treatments.

When can it be used?

MLS® high powered system means reduced number of treatments. MLS laser therapy is an ideal non-invasive, non-threatening, pain free and safe treatment modality that perfectly complements and benefits many treatment regimes.

It is suitable for use before, during and after a wide variety of procedures to enhance outcomes and improve patient satisfaction and comfort.

Use the Multiwave Locked System (MLS) in a preventive capacity to reduce post-operative symptoms and complications by reducing pain, inflammation, swelling and promoting healing. Use the MLS therapy to provide a noticeable reduction in many types of presenting pain at the first appointment in a short period of time.

Where can it be used?

The built-in software for the Mphi laser product range contains multiple built in settings for a variety of pathologies and body parts. MLS® Laser Therapy helps overcome the painful symptoms typical of musculoskeletal disorders which means patients return to everyday activities faster.

The MLS® Laser Therapy can be used in a scanning mode to treat whole muscle groups associated with pathology.  Additionally, it can be localised to target various trigger points. In both cases, pre-set treatment regimens are programmed into the built-in software. It is indicated for the treatment of pain and muscle spasms, joint stiffness, arthritis pain and it promotes an increase of blood circulation and muscle relaxation.

Treatment sites include muscles of the musculoskeletal system various trigger points as well as the associated lymphatic system including lymph nodes plus nerves.

The high-power MLS® beam has deep tissue penetration of 3-4 cm for optimum treatment outcomes and physiologic results able to reach bone, underlying soft tissues, nerves, sinuses, tendons and muscles attachments.

What is the evidence?

The design of each ASAlaser comes from extensive research in vitro and in vivo.

Created as a collaboration of ASAlaser and the Biomedical Experimental and Clinical Science Department of Florence University Italy, the ASAcampus laboratory tests the validity of designs and improves results over time.

The campus undertakes extensive study into the photochemical, photothermal, and photomechanical effects of lasers on biologic tissue including at the molecular level to evaluate therapeutic effects. The results of research are presented at conventions and appear in scientific publications.

Since 1983 ASAlaser has been a reference point in Laser Therapy and Magnetotherapy in many fields from physiotherapy to rehabilitation, management of muscular and articular pain to sports medicine. The company is a recognised world leader in the knowledge and development of advanced technological development in pain management.

For more on MLS laser therapy devices and a selection of published research from ASAlaser  and other researches visit the ASAlaser research bibliography.

Biological effects

Scientific literature and experiments carried out in ASAcampus laboratories have identified the specific biological interaction and the therapeutic effects of MLS® pulse.

PHOTOCHEMICAL EFFECT

The photochemical effect in MLS® laser therapy refers to the biological response of cells to laser light at the molecular level, leading to enhanced healing and reduced inflammation. This effect occurs when laser energy is absorbed by cellular components, particularly the mitochondria, triggering a series of beneficial biochemical reactions.

How the Photochemical Effect Works in MLS® Therapy:
  • Light Absorption by Chromophores – The 808 nm and 905 nm laser wavelengths are absorbed by key cellular structures, such as cytochrome c oxidase in mitochondria.
  • Increased ATP Production – The absorbed energy stimulates mitochondria to produce more adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cell’s main energy source, accelerating tissue repair and regeneration.
  • Enhanced Cellular Metabolism – Higher ATP levels boost cell function, promoting faster protein synthesis, collagen production, and cell proliferation for healing.
  • Reduction of Oxidative Stress – The laser light modulates reactive oxygen species (ROS), reducing oxidative stress and inflammation while promoting tissue homeostasis.
  • Improved Nitric Oxide (NO) Release – The therapy stimulates the production of NO, which dilates blood vessels, enhances circulation, and increases oxygenation of tissues.
Why This Matters:

The photochemical effect is the primary mechanism behind the therapeutic benefits of MLS® laser therapy, enabling faster healing, reduced pain, decreased inflammation, and improved tissue function. This effect ensures that the treatment is not just masking symptoms but actually supporting cellular recovery and regeneration at a deep biological level.

PHOTOTHERMAL EFFECT

The photothermal effect in MLS® laser therapy refers to the controlled heating of tissues caused by the absorption of laser energy, leading to increased circulation, oxygenation, and metabolic activity in the treated area.

 

How the Photothermal Effect Works in MLS® Therapy
  • Absorption of Laser Energy – The 808 nm continuous laser delivers a steady flow of energy, which is absorbed by water molecules and chromophores in the tissues.
  • Mild Temperature Increase – This absorption leads to a gentle warming effect, which dilates blood vessels (vasodilation), improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to the area.
  • Enhanced Cellular Metabolism – The warmth stimulates enzymatic activity and speeds up biochemical reactions, helping cells function more efficiently and promoting tissue repair.
  • Reduction of Muscle Spasms & Stiffness – The thermal effect helps relax muscles, reduce stiffness, and improve flexibility, making it beneficial for musculoskeletal conditions.
    How the Photothermal Effect Works in MLS® Therapy:
    • Absorption of Laser Energy – The 808 nm continuous laser delivers a steady flow of energy, which is absorbed by water molecules and chromophores in the tissues.
    • Mild Temperature Increase – This absorption leads to a gentle warming effect, which dilates blood vessels (vasodilation), improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to the area.
    • Enhanced Cellular Metabolism – The warmth stimulates enzymatic activity and speeds up biochemical reactions, helping cells function more efficiently and promoting tissue repair.
    • Reduction of Muscle Spasms & Stiffness – The thermal effect helps relax muscles, reduce stiffness, and improve flexibility, making it beneficial for musculoskeletal conditions.
Why the MLS® Laser is Different:

Unlike traditional continuous-wave lasers that can cause excessive heating and tissue damage, MLS® therapy combines 808 nm continuous beam and 905 nm superpulsed lasers, ensuring that the photothermal effect remains controlled and safe. The 905 nm superpulsed laser prevents overheating while still delivering powerful therapeutic benefits.

Key Benefits of the Photothermal Effect in MLS® Therapy:
  • Increased blood circulation → Faster healing
  • Improved oxygen and nutrient supply → Enhanced tissue repair
  • Relaxation of muscles & reduction in stiffness → Better mobility
  • Safe temperature control → No risk of overheating tissues

The photothermal effect complements the photochemical effect, ensuring a synergistic approach that maximises the healing process, reduces pain, and enhances overall recovery.

PHOTOMECHANICAL EFFECT

The photomechanical effect in MLS® laser therapy refers to the mechanical stimulation of cells and tissues caused by pulsed laser energy, leading to improved cellular function and faster healing. This effect is primarily driven by the 905 nm superpulsed laser, which delivers high-intensity energy in extremely short pulses (nanoseconds).

How the Photomechanical Effect Works in MLS® Therapy:
  • High-Peak Power Pulses – The 905 nm superpulsed laser delivers very short (nano-seconds), high-intensity bursts of energy, creating a pressure wave at the cellular level.
  • Cellular Stimulation – These rapid pulses cause a gentle mechanical effect on cell membranes, enhancing cell permeability and triggering biological responses.
  • Increased Microcirculation – The pulses help stimulate capillary networks and lymphatic flow, improving nutrient and oxygen delivery to tissues while aiding in the removal of waste and toxins.
  • Enhanced Cellular Communication – The mechanical stimulation boosts intracellular signaling, which accelerates the body’s natural healing processes.
  • Reduced Pain Sensitivity – The 905 nm pulses interact with nerve fibers, modulating pain signal transmission and providing analgesic effects.

Why the Photomechanical Effect is Important in MLS® Therapy:
  • Stimulates deeper tissue layers without generating heat.
  • Boosts cellular metabolism and repair by improving nutrient exchange.
  • Enhances circulation and lymphatic drainage, reducing swelling and inflammation.
  • Provides rapid pain relief through nerve modulation.

By combining the photomechanical, photochemical, and photothermal effects, MLS® laser therapy delivers a synergistic and highly effective laser treatment that accelerates healing, reduces inflammation, and relieves pain.

 

    Photochemical Effect

    Photothermal Effect

    Photomechanical Effect

    MLS Difference

    The MLS laser achieves it results through the use of a combination of a superpulsed 905nm wavelength laser synchronised with the continuous wave of a 808nm laser.

    Laser Therapy

    Effective Treatment

    The synchronised dual-wavelength delivery system provides synergistic results so that pain reduction is greater than with the equivalent single wavelength beam.

    For the practitioner, this means the effective treatment of pain, inflammation and oedema in the one treatment session.

    Reduces inflammation and oedema

    While the 905 superpulsed laser is treating pain and promoting healing, the continuous beam 808nm wavelength simultaneously reduces inflammation and oedema.

    The 905 laser is a true superpulsed laser in contrast to many pulsed lasers that are merely chopped (turned on and off).  The pulse rate of the MLS® laser is so rapid that the treatment area never heats up no matter how long the treatment is for. It makes MLS® laser perfectly safe.

    905nm superpulsed emission

    Fast acting analgesia and accelerated healing.

    The high-power pulsed laser 905 nm emission produces an analgesic effect.

    It has also been shown to significantly increase the activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes I, II, III, IV and succinate dehydrogenase, thus suggesting that this emission may induce an increase in ATP synthesis that may accelerate the healing processes.

    808nm continuous emission

    Anti-oedema and increased cell energy.

    The 808nm continuous emission has an immediate ant-inflammation and anti-oedema effect. In addition, the 808 nm wavelength falls in the secondary absorption peak of cytochrome oxidase, therefore it is expected to activate mitochondria thus favouring ATP production.

    Effects of MLS laser therapy at a systemic level

    ANALGESIC EFFECT Obtained from:

    • A reduction in the inflammatory component
    • A reduction of oedema
    • A reduction in muscular spasms
    • Allogenic substance “Wash out”
    • Increased endorphin synthesis
    • Modulation of pain stimulus conduction

    ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND ANTI-OEDEMA EFFECT Obtained from:

    • Vasodilation and modulation of the permeability of the lymphatic and capillary vessels
    • An inhibited production of pro-inflammatory molecules
    • Pro-inflammatory molecules “Wash out”

     

    BIOSTIMULATION EFFECT Obtained from:

    • An increased supply of nutrients, oxygen and growth factors thanks to vasodilation
    • Activation of the cell functions
    • Recovery and modulation of the cell energy metabolism
    • Modulation of cell proliferation and differentiation (e.g. nerve regeneration)
    • Induction of the recovery of muscle fibre and damaged nerve endings
    • Modulation of the synthesis and organisation of the matrix proteins
    • Control of the formation and organisation of scar tissue

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