Can Laser Therapy Treat My Back Pain?

Back pain affects millions of Americans, and many are exploring alternatives to surgery, including laser therapy. But is laser therapy an effective back pain treatment? And if so, how does it work? Find the answers here.

Back pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint. In fact, nearly 65 million Americans reported a recent episode of back pain, according to research from the Health Policy Institute. Although the duration and severity of symptoms vary from person to person, many individuals believe their only options for lasting relief are intensive physical therapy or surgery. But what if there was a way to achieve that relief more quickly? Enter laser therapy.

At Performance Therapy Institute, our experienced team offers LightForce® laser therapy at our offices in Brentwood, Nashville, and Nolensville, Tennessee. Keep reading to learn what laser therapy is, how it works for back pain, and what the research says.

What is laser therapy?

Laser therapy is a noninvasive, cutting-edge procedure that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate healing in the cells and tissues beneath your skin.

LightForce therapy, the laser treatment we offer, uses a process called photobiomodulation (PBM). When the light is applied to specific parts of your body, such as the lower spine, neck, or shoulders, it increases blood flow to the area. It also reduces inflammation, promotes your body’s natural healing process, and relieves pain.

How does laser therapy work for back pain?

Back pain is often caused by issues such as muscle spasms, joint stiffness, and nerve irritation, which can all lead to inflammation and reduced mobility. Traditionally, severe or chronic cases have often required invasive procedures like surgery.

LightForce therapy is unique in that the lasers it uses penetrate deeply beneath your skin. This allows the light to stimulate the cells responsible for healing, which helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

What does the research say?

Several studies have found that laser therapy can help reduce pain and improve mobility in people with chronic lower back pain. However, the results of other studies have been less conclusive. Because the technology is still evolving, more research is needed before making any broad conclusions.

Still, many people who undergo LightForce therapy at our clinics report feeling better, sometimes after just a few sessions. To encourage optimal results, we typically include laser therapy as one aspect of a multimodal treatment plan. Treatment tends to be more effective when it’s paired with physical therapy and lifestyle changes, like postural corrections, regular exercise, and a healthy diet.

How to determine if laser therapy is right for you

The best way to determine if laser therapy is right for you is to make an appointment at one of our clinics. After a review of your medical history, a discussion of your symptoms, and a physical exam, we can make personalized treatment recommendations.

That said, if you experience mild to moderate back pain that affects your daily life or keeps you from activities like work and exercise, the treatment is worth exploring. Laser therapy isn’t a guaranteed cure, but when paired with other measures, it can help you move and live more comfortably.

Schedule a laser therapy consultation today