Discover how laser therapy for peripheral neuropathy can help reduce pain related to this condition.
Are you one of the millions suffering from the burning, tingling, and numbness of peripheral neuropathy? This debilitating condition, often caused by diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or injury, can significantly impact quality of life. But there’s hope.
At TruSpine Chiropractic in San Francisco, we’ve seen firsthand how laser therapy can provide remarkable relief for those with peripheral neuropathy. This cutting-edge treatment harnesses the power of light to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and improve function.
Let’s dive into how laser therapy works and why it’s become a game-changer for our patients with neuropathy.
Key Takeaways
- Laser therapy is a safe, non-invasive treatment for peripheral neuropathy
- It uses focused light to stimulate healing and reduce pain and inflammation
- Laser therapy can improve nerve function and reduce neuropathy symptoms
- At TruSpine Chiropractic, we offer personalized laser therapy treatment plans
- Combining laser therapy with other modalities like chiropractic care and acupuncture can enhance results
Additional reading: Nerve Pain: Your Body’s Alarm System
How Laser Therapy Works
Laser therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with tissue. When the light is applied to an affected area, it’s absorbed by photoacceptors in the cells’ mitochondria.
This kicks off a series of events that lead to enhanced cellular metabolism, reduced inflammation, and accelerated tissue repair.
For peripheral neuropathy, laser therapy can:
- Increase blood flow to the nerves
- Stimulate nerve regeneration and repair
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Improve nerve conduction and sensory function
One of the key benefits of laser therapy is that it’s non-invasive and drug-free. Unlike medications that may have side effects, laser therapy harnesses the body’s own healing mechanisms.
And unlike surgery, laser therapy doesn’t require any downtime. Patients can resume their normal activities immediately after treatment.
The TruSpine Approach
At TruSpine Chiropractic, we take a comprehensive approach to treating peripheral neuropathy. We understand that every patient is unique, which is why we create personalized treatment plans that may include laser therapy along with other modalities.
Our cutting-edge laser therapy treatments are performed using state-of-the-art equipment by our trained and certified clinicians. We utilize both class 3B and class 4 lasers, which allows us to customize treatments based on the patient’s specific needs.
During a typical laser therapy session, the patient relaxes comfortably while the laser is applied to the affected area for a specified period of time. Most patients report a warm, soothing sensation during treatment. Sessions usually last between 5-20 minutes, and most patients see results within a few treatments.
Enhancing Results with Combination Therapies
While laser therapy alone can provide significant relief for many patients with peripheral neuropathy, we’ve found that combining it with other therapies can enhance results. At TruSpine, we often recommend integrating laser therapy with:
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic adjustments can help improve spinal alignment and nerve function. When combined with laser therapy, chiropractic care can optimize the healing environment for damaged nerves.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is another drug-free therapy that can be beneficial for peripheral neuropathy. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture can help regulate nerve function, reduce pain, and improve circulation.
Nutritional Support
Proper nutrition is essential for nerve health. We often recommend specific supplements, such as B vitamins, alpha-lipoic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids, to support nerve function and repair.
Case Study
To illustrate the power of laser therapy, let’s look at a real-life cases of how laser therapy is able to provide peripheral neuropathy relief.
A 2019 pilot randomized clinical trial found that deep tissue laser therapy significantly reduced pain and improved quality of life in older adults with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy compared to sham laser therapy. The laser treatment was applied to the plantar surfaces of the feet and lumbar spine over a 12-week period
An older 2017 review looked at 6 studies on low-level laser treatment for peripheral somatosensory neuropathy. The laser treatment durations ranged from 6 to 21 sessions. The review found the laser treatment seemed to reduce loss of function in damaged nerves and improve sensory nerve cell function
Laser Therapy in Action
A case report described chiropractic management of a 40-year-old male with Bell’s palsy (facial nerve paralysis) using low-level laser therapy and manipulation. After 2 treatments over 4 days, the patient reported 70-80% improvement in facial movement and full control of facial movements (Source)
From our practice. John, a 62-year-old with a 10-year history of diabetes, came to us with severe peripheral neuropathy. He had burning pain and numbness in his feet that made walking difficult. He had tried medications, but they provided little relief and caused unwanted side effects.
We recommended a course of laser therapy, along with chiropractic adjustments and nutritional support. After just a few treatments, John noticed a significant reduction in his pain.
He was able to walk more easily and even resumed his favorite hobby of hiking. By the end of his treatment plan, John’s neuropathy symptoms were reduced by 85%.
| Treatment | Symptom Reduction |
|---|---|
| 5 sessions | 40% |
| 10 sessions | 70% |
| 15 sessions | 85% |
John’s case is not unique. We’ve seen similar results with many of our patients who have undergone laser therapy for peripheral neuropathy.
Is Laser Therapy Right for You?
If you’re suffering from peripheral neuropathy, laser therapy may be a viable treatment option. However, it’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if it’s right for your specific case.
At TruSpine Chiropractic, we offer free consultations where we can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. We’ll perform a thorough evaluation and create a personalized treatment plan that may include laser therapy along with other modalities.
Some factors that may make you a good candidate for laser therapy include:
- Diagnosed peripheral neuropathy
- Symptoms such as burning, tingling, numbness, or weakness
- Desire for a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option
- Commitment to a comprehensive treatment plan
Conclusion
Peripheral neuropathy can be a challenging condition to manage, but laser therapy offers hope for many sufferers. By harnessing the power of light to stimulate healing and reduce pain, laser therapy can significantly improve quality of life. At TruSpine Chiropractic, we’ve seen the remarkable results firsthand.
If you’re in the San Francisco area and are looking for a comprehensive, drug-free approach to managing your peripheral neuropathy, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team.
Together, we can create a personalized treatment plan that may include laser therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, and nutritional support to help you find relief and reclaim your life.
FAQs
How many laser therapy sessions will I need?
The number of sessions needed varies from patient to patient depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s response to treatment. Most patients see results within a few sessions, but some may require more.
We typically recommend a course of 10-15 sessions for optimal results.
Is laser therapy painful?
No, laser therapy is not painful. Most patients report a warm, soothing sensation during treatment. There may be a slight tingling sensation, but this is not painful.
Are there any side effects of laser therapy?
Laser therapy is generally very safe with few side effects. Some patients may experience a temporary increase in pain or tingling after the first few treatments, but this usually subsides quickly. More serious side effects are very rare.
Can laser therapy be combined with other treatments?
Yes, laser therapy can be safely combined with other treatments such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, physical therapy, and medication. In fact, we often recommend a comprehensive approach for optimal results.
How long does each laser therapy session take?
Laser therapy sessions typically last between 5-20 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated and the dosage required.
Call to Action
Ready to take the first step towards relief from peripheral neuropathy?
Contact TruSpine Chiropractic today to schedule your free consultation. Our team of experts is ready to help you create a personalized treatment plan that may include laser therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, and nutritional support.
Don’t let peripheral neuropathy control your life any longer. Take action today and start your journey towards better health and quality of life.
