Neuropathy Treatment with Lasers: Varieties and Efficiency Evaluation
In the realm of medical treatments, laser therapy is gaining traction as a potential solution for various types of neuropathy. Neuropathy, a condition characterised by nerve damage, can cause a range of symptoms depending on the affected nerves [1].
One type of neuropathy that has seen significant progress in laser therapy is peripheral somatosensory neuropathy, which affects how people experience sensations such as pain and touch anywhere in the body [2]. Low-level laser treatment (LLLT) and photobiomodulation with multiple wavelengths (red, infrared, violet) have demonstrated efficacy in reducing symptoms and improving nerve function for this type of neuropathy [1][3].
For instance, LLLT seems to reduce the loss of function in damaged nerves and improve sensory nerve cell function, particularly in peripheral somatosensory neuropathy associated with conditions like autism [2]. Moreover, LLLT has shown some benefit for diabetic peripheral neuropathy, reducing pain and possibly controlling nerve pain [2].
Researchers suggest that the differences in the benefits of various laser treatments for neuropathy are due to the different wavelengths of the lasers [1]. High-intensity laser therapy, for example, can substantially reduce nociceptive substances like substance P released from sensory nerve endings, potentially alleviating pain related to neuropathies [4].
Combining different light wavelengths may enhance therapeutic effects, as demonstrated in trials targeting neuropathy prevention and symptom relief [1]. The safety and non-invasive nature of these laser therapies are supported by devices cleared by regulatory bodies such as the FDA [3].
While evidence predominantly focuses on peripheral neuropathy, research into neuropathies from radiation or other causes is ongoing [5]. Gallium aluminum arsenide lasers, with their short wavelengths, can penetrate body tissue well, potentially stimulating cells, increasing blood flow, and lowering the pain threshold in nerves [6].
However, it's important to note that experts have not conclusively determined the effectiveness of laser treatment for all neuropathy types [1]. The costs of laser treatment can vary depending on the provider, the laser type, the number of sessions, and whether it is covered by Medicare [7].
As with any new treatment, more research is necessary to determine the extent of laser treatment's effectiveness for neuropathy. It is crucial to consult a doctor before trying any new treatments for neuropathy, and to ensure that any laser device used on the skin is FDA-approved [8].
In the case of glaucoma, a type of optic neuropathy that causes slow vision loss and high eye pressure [2], doctors treat the condition with medicated eye drops and laser therapy [9]. Techniques such as laser trabeculoplasty and laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation are used to lower eye pressure [9].
Deep-tissue laser therapy has shown benefit for older people with painful diabetic neuropathy, resulting in a significant reduction in pain [1]. A 2017 review evaluated six studies on low-level laser treatment for peripheral somatosensory neuropathy, with treatment durations ranging from 6 to 21 interventions and follow-ups between 0 and 6 months [1].
In conclusion, laser therapy is an emerging and promising treatment for various types of neuropathy. Different laser types and wavelengths provide beneficial effects by targeting inflammation, improving nerve function, and reducing pain [1][3][4]. However, more large-scale clinical evidence is needed for definitive guidance on optimal laser parameters for specific neuropathy types [1][3][4].
References: 1. A Systematic Review of Low-Level Laser Therapy for Peripheral Neuropathy 2. Peripheral Somatosensory Neuropathy 3. Low-Level Laser Therapy: Mechanisms and Clinical Applications 4. High-Intensity Laser Therapy for Neuropathic Pain 5. Laser Therapy for Radiation-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Review 6. Gallium Aluminum Arsenide Lasers for Pain Management 7. Medicare Coverage of Low-Level Laser Therapy for Neuropathy 8. FDA-Cleared Laser Devices for Treatment of Neuropathy 9. Glaucoma Treatment: Medications and Laser Surgery
- Laser therapy, a non-invasive treatment, is gaining prominence as a potential solution for various public health issues, particularly chronic diseases like neuropathies.
- Neuropathies, medical conditions characterized by nerve damage, can lead to a myriad of symptoms, including pain, depending on the affected nerves.
- Peripheral somatosensory neuropathy, a type of neuropathy that impacts sensations such as pain and touch, has shown significant improvements with low-level laser treatment (LLLT) and photobiomodulation.
- Researchers have found that LLLT can reduce the loss of function in damaged nerves and improve sensory nerve cell function, especially for peripheral somatosensory neuropathy associated with conditions like autism.
- Furthermore, LLLT has shown potential benefits for diabetic peripheral neuropathy, reducing pain and possibly controlling nerve pain.
- The efficacy of laser treatments for neuropathies may differ due to the various wavelengths of lasers used, and high-intensity laser therapy, for example, can significantly reduce nociceptive substances like substance P.
- Combining different light wavelengths in laser therapies may enhance therapeutic effects, as demonstrated in trials targeting neuropathy prevention and symptom relief.
- While promising, more research is necessary to determine the extent of laser treatment's effectiveness for all types of neuropathies, including radiation-induced neuropathies.
- Given its potential benefits, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before trying any new treatments for neuropathy and to ensure that any laser device used on the skin is FDA-approved.
- In the realm of mental health and wellness, maintaining fitness and exercise, balanced nutrition, and proper skin care are essential components of overall health management alongside medical treatments like laser therapy.
