At Bayshore Podiatry Center in Tampa, FL, Dr. James E. Repko, DPM, DABPM and Dr. Saleena Niehaus, DPM, DABPM offer MLS Laser Therapy, a cutting-edge treatment that has helped thousands of Tampa Bay patients heal faster from foot and ankle pain. With 8 years of combined clinical experience and Dr. Repko's international fellowship training at the Third Military Hospital of China, our team delivers evidence-based laser therapy protocols tailored to your specific condition.
"In our practice, we've seen MLS laser therapy dramatically accelerate healing for everything from chronic plantar fasciitis to post-surgical recovery," says Dr. Repko. "It's become an essential part of our comprehensive treatment approach."
Why Tampa Bay Patients Choose Our MLS Laser Therapy:
✓ Board-certified expertise with thousands of successful treatments
✓ Proven protocols developed over 8 years of clinical practice
✓ Integrated approach combining laser with orthotics and other therapies
Schedule Your MLS Laser Consultation Today
What Is MLS Laser Therapy?
MLS stands for Multiwave Locked System. It uses two synchronized wavelengths of light (808nm and 905nm) to stimulate your body's natural healing processes through photobiomodulation (PBM)—the same principle used in advanced tissue regeneration research.
"Think of your body's cells as small power plants," explains Dr. Niehaus. "When injured, they become sluggish. MLS Laser Therapy delivers light energy that helps 'recharge' those cells, allowing them to recover more efficiently."
Our Clinical Experience with MLS Technology
After evaluating multiple laser systems, we chose MLS technology for its superior dual-wavelength approach. Over our 8 years of practice, we've refined our treatment protocols to maximize results for Tampa Bay's active population—from weekend pickleball players to marathon runners.
How It Works: The Science Behind Our Approach
Based on our clinical experience treating thousands of patients, MLS Laser Therapy works at the cellular level to:
Increase Cellular Energy (ATP)
Stimulates mitochondria to boost ATP production, providing energy for tissue repair. This fundamental process, where cells absorb light and convert it into energy, is well-documented in research.
Reduce Pain Naturally
Calms nerve activity and triggers the release of your body's natural pain-relief chemicals. "Many of our patients report significant pain reduction after just 2-3 sessions," notes Dr. Repko.
Decrease Inflammation
Reduces swelling, redness, and inflammatory markers by improving circulation and lymphatic drainage. This anti-inflammatory action helps resolve the acute phase of injury.
Accelerate Healing
Supports regeneration of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves by enhancing cellular proliferation and new blood vessel formation.
Minimize Scar Tissue
Encourages healthy healing to improve long-term mobility and function, reducing the likelihood of excessive scar formation.
Conditions We Successfully Treat with MLS Laser Therapy
Drawing from our 8 years of Tampa Bay clinical experience, we've achieved excellent results treating:
Heel and Foot Pain
- Plantar Fasciitis - Our most common laser application, often combined with custom orthotics
- Heel Spurs - Reducing inflammation around bony prominences
- Morton's Neuroma - Decreasing nerve inflammation and pain
- Tendon Injuries - Achilles tendinitis, posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
Joint and Soft Tissue Conditions
- Arthritis - Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms
- Bursitis and Tendinitis - Reducing inflammation in active Tampa Bay residents
- Sprains and Strains - Common in our pickleball and tennis players
- Post-Surgical Recovery - Enhancing healing after foot and ankle procedures
Chronic and Complex Cases
- Diabetic Ulcers - Promoting faster wound closure in our diabetic patients
- Neuropathy - Reducing nerve pain and improving circulation
- Chronic Wounds - When traditional treatments haven't been effective
Our Integrated Treatment Approach
Why Our MLS Laser Protocols Are Different
"We don't just use laser therapy in isolation," explains Dr. Niehaus. "Our 8 years of experience have taught us that combining MLS laser with other treatments often produces superior results."
Proven Combination Therapies We Use:
- MLS Laser + Custom Orthotics - For biomechanical foot problems
- MLS Laser + Shockwave Therapy - For chronic plantar fasciitis
- MLS Laser + Regenerative Injections - For tendon and ligament injuries
- MLS Laser + Physical Therapy - For comprehensive rehabilitation
Our Clinical Protocols
Developed over thousands of patient treatments, our protocols include:
- Initial Assessment - Comprehensive evaluation to determine laser candidacy
- Customized Treatment Plans - Frequency and duration based on your condition
- Progress Monitoring - Regular assessment to adjust protocols as needed
- Integration Planning - Coordinating with other treatments for optimal results
Why Tampa Bay Patients Choose Bayshore Podiatry Center
Board-Certified Expertise
- Dr. James Repko, DPM, DABPM - Fellowship-trained with international experience
- Dr. Saleena Niehaus, DPM, DABPM - Board-certified podiatric medicine specialist
- Active hospital privileges at HCA South Tampa Hospital
- 8 years of combined Tampa Bay experience
Advanced Technology & Training
- Latest MLS M6 Robotic Laser - Most advanced system available
- Ongoing professional education in photobiomodulation therapy
- Evidence-based protocols refined through clinical experience
- Integration with cutting-edge treatments (shockwave, regenerative medicine)
Patient-Centered Care
- Same-day appointments available for urgent conditions
- Personalized treatment plans based on your lifestyle and goals
- Insurance verification assistance - we help determine coverage
- Convenient South Tampa location serving Hyde Park, Davis Islands, and MacDill AFB
What to Expect: Our Treatment Process
Your First Visit
"We always start with a comprehensive evaluation," says Dr. Repko. "Not every condition responds equally to laser therapy, so proper assessment is crucial."
- Detailed examination of your specific condition
- Medical history review including previous treatments
- Treatment plan development with realistic expectations
- Insurance verification and cost discussion
During Treatment Sessions
- 10-15 minutes per session - fits easily into your schedule
- Completely painless - most patients find it relaxing
- No preparation required - come as you are
- Immediate return to activities - no downtime needed
Expected Timeline
Based on our clinical experience:
- Initial improvement - Often noticed after 2-3 sessions
- Significant relief - Typically by 6-8 sessions
- Optimal results - Usually achieved with 10-12 treatments
- Maintenance therapy - Occasionally needed for chronic conditions
Patient Success Stories from Tampa Bay
Case Study: Plantar Fasciitis Recovery
A 45-year-old Hyde Park runner came to us with chronic plantar fasciitis limiting her training. Through our protocol combining MLS laser therapy with custom orthotics, she returned to pain-free running within 8 weeks and completed the Gasparilla Half Marathon 4 months later.
Case Study: Post-Surgical Healing
Following bunion surgery at HCA South Tampa Hospital, a 58-year-old patient used our MLS laser protocol to accelerate healing. She experienced faster wound closure and returned to full activity 3 weeks ahead of the typical timeline.
Case Study: Chronic Achilles Tendinitis
A local pickleball enthusiast suffered from chronic Achilles pain for over a year. Our combination of MLS laser, shockwave therapy, and targeted exercises eliminated his pain and allowed him to return to competitive play.
The Science Behind Our Results
Research-Backed Effectiveness
Our treatment approach is supported by extensive research in photobiomodulation:
- Cellular energy enhancement through ATP stimulation
- Pain reduction via natural endorphin release
- Anti-inflammatory effects reducing tissue swelling
- Accelerated healing through improved circulation
Why We Chose MLS Technology
"After reviewing all available laser systems, we selected MLS for its unique dual-wavelength approach," explains Dr. Repko. "The research supporting its effectiveness, combined with our clinical results, made it the clear choice for our patients."
Safety and Contraindications
Completely Safe When Properly Applied
- FDA-cleared technology with extensive safety data
- No known side effects when used according to protocols
- Suitable for all ages from children to seniors
- Compatible with most medications and other treatments
When Laser Therapy May Not Be Appropriate
- Pregnancy - We use alternative treatments during this time
- Active cancer in the treatment area
- Certain medications that increase light sensitivity
- Acute infections - treated after infection resolves
Insurance and Investment Information
Coverage Options
- Many insurance plans cover MLS laser therapy for specific conditions
- Workers' compensation often provides coverage for work-related injuries
- Auto insurance may cover treatment for accident-related injuries
- HSA/FSA eligible - use pre-tax dollars for treatment
"Our team handles insurance verification and pre-authorization to make the process as smooth as possible," notes Dr. Niehaus.
Treatment Investment
Individual sessions typically range from $75-$125, with package options available for multiple treatments. We believe in transparent pricing and will discuss all costs during your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How quickly will I see results? A: Based on our clinical experience, most patients begin noticing improvement after 2-3 sessions, with cumulative benefits building over time.
Q: Is MLS laser therapy painful? A: Not at all. Most patients find the treatment relaxing and painless. You may feel a gentle warming sensation.
Q: Can I combine laser therapy with other treatments? A: Absolutely. We often combine MLS laser with custom orthotics, shockwave therapy, or other treatments for enhanced results.
Q: How does MLS compare to other laser systems? A: MLS uses dual synchronized wavelengths, which research shows provides superior tissue penetration and healing compared to single-wavelength systems.
Q: Are there any restrictions after treatment? A: None. You can immediately return to all normal activities. We actually encourage movement to enhance the therapy's benefits.
Schedule Your MLS Laser Consultation Today
Don't let foot and ankle pain limit your active Tampa Bay lifestyle. Our MLS Laser Therapy, backed by 8 years of clinical experience and thousands of successful treatments, offers a proven path to faster healing without surgery or downtime.
Ready to Experience the Difference?
Contact Bayshore Podiatry Center to schedule your comprehensive evaluation with our board-certified podiatrists. Discover why Tampa Bay residents trust us for advanced, effective laser therapy.
Serving Tampa Bay including Hyde Park, Davis Islands, MacDill Air Force Base, and surrounding communities.
References:
- Cutting Edge Laser Technologies. (n.d.). The science behind MLS laser therapy.
- Hamblin, M. R. (2017). Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. AIMS Biophysics, 4(3), 337–361.
- Chung, H., et al. (2012). The nuts and bolts of low-level laser (light) therapy. Annals of Biomedical Engineering, 40(2), 516–533.
- Karu, T. I. (1999). Primary and secondary mechanisms of action of visible to near-IR radiation on cells. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 49(1), 1–17.
- Fukuda, K., et al. (2020). Efficacy of Photobiomodulation Therapy in the Treatment of Pain and Inflammation: A Literature Review. Healthcare, 11(7), 938.
