By using specific wavelengths of light, laser therapy helps reduce pain, improve circulation, and stimulate tissue repair — all without heat, discomfort, or downtime. 

At Ottawa Cancer and Lymphatics Centre, laser therapy is most used to help manage chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), support scar healing after surgery, and promote lymphatic health as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan. 

 

What is Cold Laser Therapy?

Cold laser therapy uses low-intensity light to gently penetrate the skin and interact with tissues at a cellular level. It encourages healing by increasing energy production in the cells, reducing inflammation, and improving microcirculation.  

Laser therapy is painless and typically takes 15–30 minutes per session. The laser device is applied directly to the skin over the affected area. You may feel a mild warming sensation, but many people feel nothing during the treatment itself. There is no downtime afterward. 

While completely painless, this therapy can have a significant impact on healing outcomes when used consistently over time. Laser therapy treatments may be a part of your treatment plan and can usually be claimed on your extended health benefits plan.

 

Laser Therapy for Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN) 

One of the most important applications of laser therapy in cancer rehabilitation is for people experiencing nerve damage due to chemotherapy. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common side effect of certain cancer drugs, and may cause symptoms such as: 

• Tingling or burning in the hands or feet 
• Numbness or decreased sensation 
• Sensitivity to touch 
• Muscle weakness or coordination challenges 

Cold laser therapy can help by: 

• Stimulating nerve tissue repair
• Improving blood flow to affected areas
• Reducing pain, tingling, and numbness
• Supporting balance, coordination, and overall mobility

Our therapists may also recommend integrating laser therapy with physiotherapy or kinesiology treatments to maximize results. It can be safely used alongside other treatments and adapted to your individual needs. 

 

Laser Therapy for Scar Healing

Laser therapy is also used to support tissue recovery and scar healing after plastic surgeries — especially in areas that may be tight, painful, or visibly raised. This can include surgical sites after: 

• Breast reconstruction 
• Abdominoplasty 
• Liposuction incisions 
• Plastic or reconstructive procedures 
• Skin grafts 

Laser therapy can help by softening thick or raised scars as well as improve the colour and overall appearance of scars. It may also be a helpful tool to reduce tightness and increase comfort and healing post-operatively.  

 

Additional Applications of Laser Therapy

While neuropathy and scar healing are the most common uses in our clinic, cold laser therapy may also benefit: 

• Lymphedema and lipedema (to reduce inflammation and support lymph flow) 
• Soft tissue healing after injury 
• Chronic joint or muscle pain 
• Post-surgical swelling or stiffness 
• Delayed healing or wound care support 

Our team will always assess your specific situation to determine if laser therapy is an appropriate and beneficial option as part of your recovery plan. 

At Ottawa Cancer and Lymphatics Centre, all laser therapy is provided one-on-one by trained clinicians who specialize in cancer and lymphatic rehabilitation. We use it as part of a broader, integrated plan tailored to your goals. 

Laser therapy can be introduced at any stage of your recovery journey — whether you’re actively in treatment, recovering from surgery, or navigating survivorship. If laser therapy is a good option for you, it can be included in your treatment plan during your regular session with your clinician- no extra appointments or fees. Our goal is to help you heal faster, move more freely, and feel more like yourself again.