Phototherapy in Ottawa by Physiocare Physiotherapists

Q: How quickly will I see results?

Many patients see improvements within 4–6 weeks, with optimal clearing often by weeks 8–12.

Q: How often are sessions?

Typically 2 to 3 times per week until maintenance or remission is achieved.

Q: Can phototherapy treat eczema effectively?

Yes—around 70 % of patients respond well, often reducing the need for steroids.

Q: Is home phototherapy reliable?

Guided use of NB‑UVB devices at home shows similar results (~60 % clear skin) when adherence is good.

Q: Will it increase my cancer risk?

Long‑term studies indicate narrowband UVB does not significantly raise skin cancer risk when monitored properly.

Q: Is insurance coverage available?

Yes—phototherapy is typically covered under skin‑care or physiotherapy plans; check with your insurer.

Hands-on narrowband UVB skin treatment delivered by Physiocare’s expert therapists for targeted healing and relief.

Physiocare's Experience in Action

Understanding Phototherapy for Skin Conditions

Phototherapy (light therapy) applies narrowband UVB (311–313 nm) to calm inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema by inducing apoptosis of T-lymphocytes and shifting immune responses. A 2024 observational study found marked improvements in patient‑reported outcomes, particularly in psoriasis, with remission in over 50 % of participants.

How does Phototherapy work?

Targeted UVB exposure penetrates the epidermis, moderating keratinocyte turnover and suppressing pro‑inflammatory cytokines (IL‑23/Th17 pathway), while stimulating regulatory T‑cells. Narrowband UVB specifically depletes pathogenic T-cells and alleviates epidermal hyperproliferation without the excessive erythema linked to broadband UVB

Benefits of Therapeutic Shockwave Therapy

Reduces plaques and lesions, clearing psoriasis in ~60 % of cases after 12 weeks
Eases eczema symptoms, improving pruritus and sleep in ~70 % of cases
Calms skin inflammation, regulating cytokine-induced flare-ups
Fewer side effects compared to systemic meds; safe for long-term use

Boosts vitamin D synthesis, offering added nutritional benefits

Conditions Treated with Phototherapy

Phototherapy safely targets dysfunctional immune signaling and skin inflammation, restoring healthy cellular turnover in a controlled setting.

At Physiocare, we treat psoriasis, atopic dermatitis (eczema), vitiligo, chronic urticaria, and lichen planus—leveraging narrowband UVB to deliver anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and immunomodulatory effects.

Major Skin Conditions Treated With Phototherapy

Psoriasis: Causes programmed death of hyper-active skin cells and inflammatory T-cells, reducing plaques.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Suppresses Th2-mediated inflammation, improving dryness, itch, and barrier function.
Vitiligo: Promotes melanocyte activation and repigmentation via immune modulation
Chronic Urticaria: Reduces mast cell activity and inflammatory mediator release

Lichen Planus and Other Dermatoses: Modulates immune activity in resistant skin conditions

How Physiocare Helps with Phototherapy in Ottawa

At Physiocare Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre, our certified team combines narrowband UVB phototherapy with manual and holistic skin care protocols. Backed by accreditation from the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, we offer safe and effective phototherapy in Ottawa.

Session flow:

Consultation assesses skin type, condition severity, and treatment history.
Skin mapping determines targeted UVB dosage.
Eye protection fitted and treatment area exposed.
Custom narrowband UVB session (typically 2–3× weekly).
Post-session skin assessment and hydration guidance.
Progress tracked across 6–12 weeks with clinical and patient-reported measures.

Our approach blends science with compassionate care for real skin transformation. Book your phototherapy session today—shine a light on skin wellness!