Red Light Therapy for Nerve Pain - A New Hope for Recovery

Introduction: Red Light Therapy for Nerve Pain

Nerve pain is a severe and persistent condition resulting from nerve system damage, where nerves, particularly those that have been injured, transmit false messages to the pain centers. It is hard living with this complication, and eventually, it contributes to the interference with your body's normal function. Your daily life becomes challenging, and you want a treatment that cures you once and for all, rather than offering a temporary cure. That is why most individuals have now started looking for non-invasive treatments such as red light therapy, which not only assists in curing the nerve pain but also treats the root cause of the issue. Read this article to learn about how red light therapy for nerve pain functions and gives relief without producing any side effects.

How Red Light Therapy Helps Relieve Nerve Pain

The Science Behind Red Light Therapy and Nerve Healing

Red light therapy for nerve pain treats damaged nerves by exposing them to certain red and near-infrared wavelengths. It is drug-free and non-invasive with proven efficacy against peripheral neuropathy. Since the treatment utilizes specific wavelengths, there are no side effects associated with the procedure. The light in this therapy penetrates into the skin to trigger the body's natural recovery of nerve damage and nerve pain.

To alleviate nerve pain, red light therapy boosts the production of natural painkillers called endorphins, which decreases the pain in nerves. RLT not only minimizes pain but also treats the cause of neuropathic pain by increasing the activity of the mitochondria within neurons. The mitochondria further release more ATP, a molecule of energy, that assists cells, including neurons, to function properly. Such energy assists the neurons to operate, divide, and support the repair of damaged nerves.

Red light therapy also improves blood flow, so your nerves get more blood, which supplies oxygen and nutrients to the affected areas, stimulating healing. Moreover, it minimizes the feeling of numbness by improving circulation and reduces swelling by preventing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Does Red Light Therapy Work for Nerve Pain? What Research Shows

Research about red light therapy for nerve pain implies phenomenal outcomes. According to research, it has proven to be highly effective in the treatment of neuropathic pain as it not only alleviates pain from the nerves but also helps to heal injured nerves. Experiments have found that red and near-infrared light can potentially activate the healing of damaged nerves through cell regeneration, reduction in inflammation, and increased blood flow. These studies further suggest a significant reduction in symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and burning, which are usually experienced when suffering from nerve pain.

Clinical Studies on Red Light Therapy for Nerve Pain

Study 1: Photobiomodulation Therapy Using 660 nm, 825 nm, and 840 nm Wavelengths for Scar Healing and Nerve Pain Relief

Objective

The objective of this case report was to observe how photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), with certain wavelengths of light (825 nm, 660 nm, and 840 nm), would aid in healing scar tissue and alleviating nerve pain. The patient was a 32-year-old female with a painful 15 cm scar two years post-gallbladder surgery.

Result

After applying PBMT in the clinic and at home for a few months, the patient's scar became thinner and less red. Her pain also fell from severe levels to a mild 1/10, and she could discontinue opioids, antidepressants, and sleep pills. She even went back to work and needed only sporadic Tylenol for minor pain.

Conclusion

This case recommends that PBMT improve both the appearance of the scar and the patient's pain. Although the therapy was focused on the scar, it also enhanced her mood and sleep, perhaps by decreasing pain. Future research comparing PBMT to sham (placebo) treatments might provide more definitive evidence of these benefits.

Study 2: Deep Tissue Laser Therapy (810 nm and 980 nm) for Pain Relief in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Objective

This study aimed to confirm whether deep tissue laser therapy (DTLT) at 810 nm and 980 nm wavelengths is safe and effective in treating older adults with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Researchers aimed to find out if DTLT would reduce pain, improve mobility, alleviate inflammation, and improve overall quality of life.

Results

At 12 weeks, individuals treated with DTLT had significantly better outcomes than the sham (placebo) group. They had lower pain levels, functioned better (reflected by quicker Timed Up and Go test scores), and their quality of life was improved. There was a significant decrease in inflammation markers, particularly IL-6 and MCP-1, as tested in blood. The group that received the placebo treatment improved slightly as well, but less significantly compared to the DTLT group.

Conclusion

Deep tissue laser treatment using the wavelengths 810 nm and 980 nm is safe and efficient to relieve pain, enhance movement, reduce inflammation, and improve the overall quality of life among older individuals suffering from painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Study 3: Photobiomodulation Therapy with 810 nm Light for Neuropathic Pain Relief in Oral Conditions

Objective

This research sought to evaluate how well photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy involving an 810 nm wavelength could treat neuropathic pain (NP) due to burning mouth syndrome and oral nerve trauma. The objective was to determine whether PBM could effectively and safely alleviate nerve pain, enhance physical function, and improve quality of life when compared with conventional pain medications (CPM).

Results

The group receiving PBM experienced a rapid and significant decrease in neuropathic pain. Their pain scores decreased from 7.6 at baseline to 3.9 just one month later. For comparison, the MED group only experienced a modest reduction, from 8.2 to 6.8. Individuals treated with PBM also had improved ability to eat, drink, and taste — activities commonly impacted by nerve pain. These improvements persisted up to nine months. No side effects were observed in either group.

Conclusion

810 nm photobiomodulation therapy was a safe and very effective treatment for neuropathic pain. Not only did it decrease pain more than conventional medications, but it also improved quality of life and daily activities. PBM may be a potent, drug-free option for treating neuropathic pain by assisting the body in its natural healing.

Study 4: Effectiveness of 830 nm Low-Intensity Laser Therapy in Treating Neuropathic Stump Pain Following Amputation Surgery

Objective

This case series was conducted to evaluate the effects of low-intensity laser therapy (LILT) with a 830 nm wavelength on neuropathic stump pain following amputation surgery. The aim was to identify whether LILT could alleviate pain in patients suffering from chronic, debilitating neuropathic pain that was resistant to conventional pain medications.

Results

Three patients who experienced severe, chronic stump pain that was defined as neuropathic pain were treated with nine sessions of LILT.  All three patients experienced a decrease in pain intensity and an increase in function when performing daily living activities within a 4-month follow-up period.

Conclusion

830 nm low-intensity laser therapy is a promising method of treating neuropathic stump pain. The treatment could prove effective in relieving pain and improving the quality of life for patients who are unresponsive to traditional therapies.

Choosing the Right Red Light Therapy Device for Nerve Pain

Key Features to Look for in a Nerve Pain Relief Device

When considering using red light therapy for nerve pain at home, it is essential to choose an effective device. Considering many models, selecting the proper one can be confusing. An effective red light therapy device must have the following attributes:

Specific Wavelength

The equipment should be able to emit red light at approximately 660 nm and near-infrared light at around 810, 825, 830, and 980 nm, as these wavelength ranges are most effective for healing nerve pain.

FDA-approved

Make sure the device is FDA-approved. An FDA-approved device ensures it has undergone rigorous tests for efficacy and safety.

Sufficient Power

The device must possess sufficient power output to transmit red and near-infrared efficiently.

Light Source

The unit must be designed with LEDs as the light source since halogen and fluorescent bulbs cannot project red light therapy efficiently.

User-friendly Features

To achieve proper application, the unit must provide hands-free operation, adjustable intensity levels, and portability. Portability enables you to carry your red light therapy unit with you wherever you go.

Total Spectrum Devices: Targeted Relief for Nerve Damage

The Total Spectrum products are wonderfully designed and built red light treatment products. They're designed to enable you to perform red light treatment effectively. These FDA-approved products enable you to perform red light treatment safely and effectively at home. Total Spectrum devices emit specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light, which are necessary to heal nerve damage and alleviate nerve pain. As they are FDA-approved, you don't need to worry about their safety or effectiveness. Moreover, these products offer easy-to-use features, making it convenient to use red light therapy for nerve pain at home.

Best Practices for Using Red Light Therapy for Nerve Pain

Finding the Right Dosage: Frequency, Session Length, and Distance

To achieve the best results, it's helpful to determine the optimal dosage of red light therapy, including how frequently to use it, how long to perform a session, and how close to place the device to the body.

Depending on the power of your unit and the severity of your condition, treatment is usually performed three to five times a week.  To achieve maximum results with chronic nerve pain, it is generally advisable to use the product on a regular, continuous basis.

Session time is usually between 10 and 20 minutes, although this can vary based on the power of the device as well as the location being treated. It is necessary to follow the manufacturer's protocols to avoid overutilizing or underutilizing therapy.

Finally, the space between the device and your skin is crucial for it to work. For the majority of devices, keeping 6-12 inches of space works best. Always consult the user manual for proper instructions specific to your device for optimal results.

Conclusion: The Future of Red Light Therapy in Nerve Pain Management

Why are More People Turning to Red Light Therapy for Nerve Pain?

Red light therapy is being favored as an increasingly popular choice in treating nerve pain since it is a harmless, non-invasive treatment that never produces side effects like medicines. Red light therapy not only reduces pain but also heals damaged nerves. Hence, red light therapy is considered one of the safest and most effective procedures for curing nerve pain.

What are the Dangers of Red Light Therapy for Nerve Pain?

Red light therapy is generally safe, but there are a few precautions to consider. One of the largest concerns is eye protection. If the light is too intense or directly in your eyes, it can harm them. To prevent this, always wear protective eyewear or move the light out of your eyes during a treatment.

Another key fact is to be mindful not to overuse it. Applying red light therapy for an extended period of time or regularly can irritate your skin or even cause burning. It is highly crucial to heed guidance on the length and frequency of treatments in order not to have unwanted side effects.

If you have specific medical conditions, such as photosensitivity or certain skin problems, red light therapy may not be indicated for you. It is always best to seek advice from a medical professional before treatment, particularly if you have any concerns.

Lastly, severe nerve damage or severe pain might not be effectively treated with red light therapy.  It's effective for general to moderate nerve pain, but in more serious conditions, it's essential to combine it with other treatments if needed.

Red light therapy should always be performed responsibly. If you have any questions about its effectiveness or safety for your specific situation, consult your physician.

FAQs: Addressing Common Questions

Can red light therapy heal nerve pain?

Yes, red light therapy helps alleviate nerve pain by stimulating the production of endorphins and promoting nerve recovery to aid in healing nerve damage.

How long does it take for red light therapy to work for neuropathy?

The extent of the condition and personal factors can determine how long red light treatment of neuropathy takes to produce an effect.  Most people will begin to experience improved function and reduced pain with repeated treatments within one to two weeks.  It can take even longer for serious nerve damage to occur, but even after 6–8 weeks of regular treatment, concrete improvement may not seem to appear at times.

What is the best treatment for nerve pain?

The ideal treatment for nerve pain varies according to its cause and severity. Medications such as pain killers or antidepressants, physical therapy, and non-invasive therapies such as red light therapy are some options. In chronic conditions, a combination of the above might prove to be the best, so it's always recommended that a doctor be consulted.

Does red light therapy help the nervous system?

Yes, red light therapy can help the nervous system by promoting healing and reducing inflammation. It stimulates cellular repair, improves blood flow, and encourages nerve regeneration, which can aid in recovery from nerve damage and reduce pain.