Exploring the Advantages of Low-Level Laser Therapy for Spinal and Neck Pain Through Evidence & Research

Emerging as a notable treatment in pain management, cold laser therapy, or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), has shown significant promise in relieving chronic pain conditions, particularly those affecting the back, spinal discs, and neck.

This research article gets into the myriad benefits, operational efficiency, and overall effectiveness of cold laser therapy, underpinned by robust research findings and clinical data to substantiate its use.

Understanding the Mechanism of Cold Laser Therapy

Cold laser therapy, also referred to as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), leverages low-intensity light to enhance cellular function and accelerate healing processes.

Unlike high-powered surgical lasers that cut or burn tissue, LLLT employs specific light wavelengths that penetrate the skin to stimulate the body's natural repair mechanisms without generating heat or causing tissue damage.

Research indicates that these lasers typically operate at wavelengths between 600 and 1000 nanometres, which are optimal for encouraging cellular regeneration and pain relief (Serrage et al., 2019).

Benefits of Cold Laser Therapy for Pain Relief

Cold laser therapy has garnered significant attention in the medical community for its potential to provide effective pain relief without relying on medications or invasive procedures.

Below are some of the notable benefits of cold laser therapy and how it can improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from chronic pain and inflammation.

1. Reducing Inflammation and Pain

One of the primary benefits of cold laser therapy is its ability to reduce both inflammation and pain. According to a study published in the journal Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, LLLT has demonstrated considerable efficacy in alleviating pain and reducing inflammation in patients suffering from musculoskeletal disorders (Wickenheisser et al., 2019c).

How It Works: Cold laser therapy significantly reduces inflammation and pain by targeting the affected areas with low-level laser light. This therapy is particularly effective for patients with musculoskeletal disorders, as it helps to alleviate pain and decrease inflammation.

In a study presented in Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, researchers Wickenheisser et al. (2019c) documented the substantial benefits of LLLT, observing that patients experienced notable reductions in pain and inflammation.

2. Enhancing Tissue Repair

Cold laser therapy is also known for its ability to enhance tissue repair, which is particularly beneficial for those suffering from disc and neck pain. The light energy penetrates deeply into the affected area, stimulating cell repair and promoting faster healing processes. This cellular stimulation boosts the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which fuels cellular repair and regeneration.

How It Works: Enhancing tissue repair through cold laser therapy involves the deep penetration of light energy into the affected tissues. This stimulation initiates cell repair and accelerates the healing process, which is especially advantageous for individuals dealing with disc and neck pain.

The laser's light encourages the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a molecule that supplies energy for cellular activities and regeneration, thereby facilitating quicker and more efficient recovery of damaged tissues.

3. Improving Mobility and Function

For individuals experiencing chronic back or neck pain, improved mobility and function are often primary treatment goals. Cold laser therapy has been shown to help improve these aspects significantly.

Research indicates that patients undergoing LLLT experienced enhanced range of motion and a decrease in functional restrictions caused by pain (Chow et al., 2006).

How It Works: Cold laser therapy plays a crucial role in improving mobility and function for those with chronic back or neck pain. By reducing pain and inflammation, this therapy contributes to an enhanced range of motion, allowing patients to move more freely.

A study conducted by Chow et al. (2006) revealed that patients who received LLLT demonstrated significant improvements in their mobility, experiencing fewer functional limitations associated with their pain conditions. This improvement underscores the therapy's potential in restoring physical function and enhancing the quality of life for chronic pain sufferers.

Efficiency and Effectiveness of Cold Laser Therapy

● Evidence-Based Practices

Clinical studies have repeatedly endorsed the positive effects of cold laser therapy. The study from Current Allergy and Asthma Reports concludes that cold laser therapy is a viable option for pain management, offering substantial benefits and minimal side effects (Wickenheisser et al., 2019c).

● Time-Efficient Treatment

Cold laser therapy sessions are relatively short, often lasting between 5 to 20 minutes. Despite their brevity, these sessions are highly efficient in delivering the required therapeutic benefits. Patients usually require multiple sessions, but many report noticeable improvements after just a few treatments.

● Non-Invasive and Safe

Cold laser therapy is non-invasive and has a high safety profile, making it an attractive option for patients seeking an alternative to surgery or medication. With its minimal risks and side effects, cold laser therapy serves as a practical and effective choice for pain management.

Conclusion

Cold laser therapy is a promising treatment option for patients suffering from back, disc, and neck pain. It offers several benefits, including pain reduction, enhanced tissue repair, and improved mobility.

Supported by substantial clinical evidence, cold laser therapy is both an efficient and effective treatment method, making it a valuable addition to pain management practices.

References

1. Serrage, H., Heiskanen, V., Palin, W. M., Cooper, P. R., Milward, M. R., Hadis, M., & Hamblin, M. R. (2019). Under the spotlight: mechanisms of photobiomodulation concentrating on blue and green light. Photochemical & Photobiological Sciences, 18(8), 1877–1909. https://doi.org/10.1039/c9pp00089e

2. Wickenheisser, V. A., Zywot, E. M., Rabjohns, E. M., Lee, H. H., Lawrence, D. S., & Tarrant, T. K. (2019c). Laser light therapy in inflammatory, musculoskeletal, and autoimmune disease. Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, 19(8). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-019-0869-z

3. Chow, R. T., Heller, G. Z., & Barnsley, L. (2006). The effect of 300 mW, 830 nm laser on chronic neck pain: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Pain, 124(1), 201–210. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pain.2006.05.018