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Therapeutic Modalities

Therapeutic Laser — Photobiomodulation

What Photobiomodulation Actually Does

Photobiomodulation (PBM) is the mechanism underlying all Class IV laser therapy. Specific wavelengths of near-infrared light penetrate tissue and are absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase — the terminal enzyme of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. This interaction increases ATP production, reduces reactive oxygen species, upregulates growth factor receptor expression, and shifts the local cellular environment from inflammatory to regenerative.

This is not heat therapy. It is not TENS. It is a photochemical interaction at the mitochondrial level that drives measurable changes in cellular metabolism, inflammation signaling, and tissue repair kinetics. The distinction matters clinically — and it is why we integrate laser with every biologic procedure we perform.

When PBM is applied prior to PRP or BMAC injection, it increases growth factor receptor density on cell surfaces and enhances tissue perfusion — creating a more receptive environment for the injected biological material. Post-injection, laser reduces procedural inflammation and extends the regenerative signaling window. The combination produces outcomes neither intervention achieves alone.

The CE MLS M7 is a robotic Class IV laser system utilizing Multiwave Locked System technology — a patented approach that synchronizes two therapeutic wavelengths simultaneously rather than alternating between them.

  • 808nm continuous wave — sustained anti-inflammatory and tissue repair effects
  • 905nm pulsed wave — rapid pain reduction, edema management, and nerve modulation

The synchronization of these two wavelengths is the clinical advantage of MLS technology. Continuous wave delivery drives the sustained photochemical response at the mitochondrial level. Pulsed wave delivery provides the rapid analgesic and anti-edema effect. Delivered together by the robotic scanning system — which ensures precise, consistent dosing across the entire treatment area — MLS addresses pain, inflammation, and tissue repair simultaneously rather than sequentially.

The robotic delivery system eliminates operator variability, ensuring reproducible dosing at every session. This matters for treatment consistency across a course of therapy — particularly in post-surgical and chronic condition protocols where cumulative dosing drives outcomes.

CLINICAL APPLICATIONS — MLS M7
  • Pre- and post-biologic injection photobiomodulation — standard for all orthobiologic procedures at MASI San Jose
  • Post-surgical recovery — ACL, rotator cuff, meniscus, joint replacement, tendon repairs
  • Acute and chronic tendinopathy — rotator cuff, Achilles, patellar, biceps, plantar fascia
  • Osteoarthritis — knee, hip, shoulder, ankle — pain and inflammatory burden reduction
  • Ligament and muscle injuries — sprains, strains, partial tears
  • Peripheral nerve conditions — neuropathy, nerve irritation, post-surgical nerve pain
  • Spinal conditions — cervical and lumbar pain, disc-related radiculopathy, muscle spasm
  • Post-operative scar tissue and wound healing support

The LightForce 40W is one of the highest-powered Class IV therapeutic laser systems available in clinical practice — delivering 40 watts of continuous therapeutic energy with precision dosing control. The high power output allows for rapid energy delivery to deep tissue structures, achieving therapeutic doses in treatment times that lower-powered systems cannot match.

LightForce systems are used by professional sports organizations, orthopedic surgery practices, and rehabilitation specialists globally. The 40W output enables effective treatment of deep structures — hip joint, lumbar spine, posterior shoulder, thick musculature — where lower-powered Class IV systems lose therapeutic efficacy due to tissue attenuation.

CLINICAL APPLICATIONS — LIGHTFORCE 40W
  • Pre- and post-biologic injection photobiomodulation — standard for all orthobiologic procedures at MASI Santa Cruz
  • Deep joint and tissue penetration — hip, lumbar, posterior shoulder, thick muscle groups
  • Athletic recovery — high-volume training load management, competition recovery
  • Acute sports injuries — rapid energy delivery for accelerated early-phase healing
  • Chronic musculoskeletal conditions — arthritis, tendinopathy, myofascial pain
  • Post-surgical rehabilitation — accelerated tissue healing and scar management
  • Nerve conditions — peripheral neuropathy, radiculopathy, nerve entrapments

Available at both MASI locations. Laser is included as a standard component of all orthobiologic procedures. Standalone laser therapy sessions available for ongoing recovery and performance protocols.

Single Session: $150
3-Session Intro Package: $400 (save $50)
10-Session Treatment Package: $1,000 (save $500)

Acute injuries typically respond well to 3–6 sessions. Chronic conditions and post-surgical recovery protocols often require 10 or more sessions. Protocol is determined at clinical evaluation.

The MASI Method

Dr. Masi’s four-pillar approach to healing and performance integrates soul, structure, biology, and mindset. Mana is the life force that encompasses and is at the root of all, inherent in each individual and honoring the deeper connection between spirit, purpose, and healing. The Anatomical pillar focuses on structural care through orthopedic expertise, surgery, and rehabilitation. The Systemic pillar addresses cellular and physiological healing with regenerative therapies such as stem cells, PRP, peptides, and anti-inflammatory protocols. Finally, the Interoception pillar centers on mindset and self-awareness—cultivating belief, agency, and resilience as essential drivers of recovery and long-term performance.

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