Using Lasers to Help People with Neck Pain
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With the data in from 16 different studies, it has become clear that low-intensity laser therapy is effective for reducing pain in those with chronic neck problems. While the exact mechanism isn’t understood as of yet, it has been found that shining a laser with a wavelength of 780, 810, 830 or 904 nm at the affected muscle tissue helps relieve pain. While such wavelengths and strengths don’t generate heat, they do penetrate several centimeters into the body.
The Exact Reasons Aren’t Known -
Three theories have been suggested as to how the lasers work. One theory suggests that the radiation generated by the laser may have some anti-inflammatory effect generated by the ability to inhibit postoglandins or cytokines. Another idea is that it may decrease the muscle fatigue and oxidative stress. A third concept is that the lasers change the signals within the nerves, eliciting a sort of nerve block.
What is known is that extensive studies have shown the use of lasers to be effective and consistently so. Control groups had much lower percentages of success regarding treatment when compared to those who received laser therapy. As many as 70% more patients treated with the lasers had a significant reduction in chronic pain.
Just the Lasers Ma’am? -
With the data collected in a meta-study compiled from 820 participants, doctors and the FDA feel sufficiently confident to recommend low level laser therapy to any patients that suffer from chronic neck pain. While the laser therapy can be used alone, it is best combined with regular neck pain treatments such as physical therapy and supervised exercise.
The pain relief has been tracked as effective for both short and medium term results. Results were tracked for up to 22 weeks. Long term results are not yet available. The lasers have mild side effects, if any, and are well tolerated by a majority of the tested population.
Long Term Goals for Low Level Laser Therapy -
To date there hasn’t been a truly structured, double blind, placebo based trial of laser therapy. While doctors are enthusiastic about the possibilities opened up by this innovative treatment, they are quick to caution against too much hope. Until a properly managed, peer reviewed study has been carried out, doctors will continue to give their support to the procedure, but with caveats.
While the FDA has given approval for the therapy, that is not the same as when the FDA permits the use of a new medication. A device need only prove that it isn’t harmful for approval, whereas medications have much higher standards. With neck pain a growing complaint among those in the workforce, there is a great deal of pressure to approve any technique that may help reduce pain and improve function. Even with the approval, many insurance companies are unwilling to pay for the procedure.
Until more studies are conducted or the mechanism behind the success of laser treatment is known, it is unlikely that insurance companies will step up to the bat and pay for the therapy. In the meanwhile, low level laser therapy is a viable option for those with chronic neck pain.
