Light Therapy for Neck and Back Pain

Neck and back pain are two of the most common reasons people seek care. Alongside exercise-based rehab, manual therapy, and lifestyle changes, light therapy (also called photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy) is being studied for its potential to reduce pain and inflammation and support tissue recovery.

What “light therapy” means in pain care

Photobiomodulation uses specific wavelengths of light delivered at low intensities (not heat-based “surgical lasers”). Research suggests it can influence cellular energy production and inflammatory signaling, which may support pain reduction and functional improvement. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9980499/

What the research shows for back pain

Clinical trials and systematic reviews have evaluated LLLT/PBM for chronic, non-specific low back pain. Some findings show pain improvement, especially when combined with exercise, although results vary between studies (dose and treatment protocols matter a lot). 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27207675/

Who might be a good candidate

Light therapy may be considered when someone wants a non-invasive, drug-free addition to their plan, especially if pain is limiting activity, rehab progress, or sleep. A provider should still screen for red flags (significant weakness, loss of bowel/bladder control, severe trauma, fever, unexplained weight loss, etc.).

What to expect

Most plans involve a series of short visits over several weeks, with progress measured by pain, range of motion, and function. Outcomes are individualized and depend on the underlying cause of pain.

Book Your Consultation

If you’re dealing with neck or back pain and want a treatment plan tailored to your symptoms, schedule a consultation to see whether light therapy is appropriate for you.