Nerve pain, also known as neuropathic pain, can be debilitating and challenging to treat. It often stems from conditions such as diabetes, sciatica, or injuries that damage the nervous system. While medications and physical therapies are commonly used, laser therapy—particularly Class 4 laser therapy and cold laser therapy (low-level laser therapy or LLLT)—has emerged as a cutting-edge, non-invasive option to manage nerve pain.
At Pacific Health and Sports Therapy, we use a combination laser that uses multiple wavlelengths of light therapy to provide the benefits of both cold laser therapy and class 4 laser therapy together in one treatment session. The Summus laser is the best laser of it’s kind for non-invasive laser treatment for muscle injuries, joint pain, arthritis pain, and nerve pain.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of Class 4 laser and cold laser therapy for nerve pain, how they work, and why they’re becoming popular alternatives for pain relief.
What is Class 4 Laser Therapy?
Class 4 laser therapy uses high-power lasers (wavelengths between 780 nm and 1064 nm) to penetrate deep into tissues. The energy from the laser accelerates healing by increasing blood flow and stimulating the cellular repair processes. Due to its higher power output, Class 4 lasers deliver a more intense level of energy, making it suitable for treating chronic and acute pain, including nerve pain.
What is Cold Laser Therapy (LLLT)?
Cold laser therapy, or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), uses low-intensity lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to treat pain. The light energy triggers photochemical reactions in the cells, enhancing their natural healing capabilities. Unlike Class 4 lasers, LLLT doesn’t produce heat, making it ideal for treating more sensitive areas or patients who may not tolerate heat-based treatments.
Key Benefits of Laser Therapy for Nerve Pain
1. Non-Invasive Pain Relief
One of the greatest advantages of both Class 4 and cold laser therapy is that they are non-invasive treatments. There is no need for surgery or injections, reducing the risk of side effects and complications. Patients experience relief without enduring a recovery period, making it an attractive option for long-term pain management.
2. Accelerated Tissue Healing
Laser therapy stimulates the body’s natural healing processes by promoting cellular repair and regeneration. It increases adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, which boosts cellular energy and accelerates tissue repair. For nerve pain sufferers, this means faster healing of damaged nerve tissues, leading to long-term pain relief.
3. Reduced Inflammation and Swelling
Nerve pain is often associated with inflammation, particularly in conditions like sciatica or peripheral neuropathy. Both Class 4 and cold laser therapy help reduce inflammation by enhancing lymphatic drainage and improving blood circulation. This reduction in swelling can alleviate pressure on the nerves, decreasing pain and discomfort.
4. Improved Nerve Function
One of the key benefits of laser therapy is its ability to stimulate the healing of nerve tissues. By promoting circulation around the injured nerve fibers, both Class 4 and cold laser therapies can help improve overall nerve function. This can significantly reduce symptoms of neuropathy, such as burning, tingling, and shooting pain by helping in the nerve’s recovery.
5. Drug-Free Pain Management
For those who want to avoid long-term reliance on medications, laser therapy offers a natural, drug-free alternative. Medications for nerve pain, such as opioids or anticonvulsants, can lead to side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, or addiction. Laser therapy provides a safer solution for pain management, especially for patients looking to avoid these risks.
6. Minimal Side Effects
Laser therapy, when administered by trained professionals, has very few side effects. Class 4 lasers do generate heat, so patients may feel a slight warming sensation, but this is generally well-tolerated. As the treatment is non-invasive and non-contact, there is no soreness or bruising after treatment and no pain with the treatment itself. Most patients report that the treated area immediately feels less discomfort and easier to move.
7. Quick and Convenient Treatments
Both Class 4 laser and cold laser therapy sessions are relatively quick, typically lasting between 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the area being treated. Multiple sessions are often needed for optimal results, but the convenience of short treatment times makes it easy to integrate into a busy schedule.
8. Effective for a Wide Range of Conditions
Laser therapy is versatile and can be used to treat various conditions that cause nerve pain. This includes:
- Sciatica
- thoracic outlet syndrome
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Radiculopathy
- Post-surgical nerve damage
- Shingles-related nerve pain (postherpetic neuralgia)
Whether it’s acute or chronic nerve pain, both Class 4 laser and cold laser therapy can provide significant relief.
Conclusion
Class 4 laser and cold laser therapy offer promising solutions for nerve pain relief. They are non-invasive, drug-free, and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. By reducing inflammation, improving nerve function, and accelerating tissue repair, laser therapy is a viable option for those suffering from conditions like sciatica, diabetic neuropathy, and other forms of nerve damage.
If you’re struggling with nerve pain and looking for an alternative to medications or invasive treatments, consider discussing laser therapy with your healthcare provider. It could be the key to regaining a pain-free life.
