Nerve pain, also known as neuropathic pain, can range from mildly irritating to excruciating. Whether it presents as sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, diabetic neuropathy, or a pinched nerve in the spine, people often seek non-invasive ways to manage symptoms and support recovery. Chiropractic care and cold laser therapy are two gentle options that may be suitable, particularly when combined together.
At Cold Laser Perth and Lakeside Chiropractic, we often see individuals seeking support for nerve-related symptoms like tingling, burning, numbness, or shooting pain. Our approach combines hands-on care with the latest in photobiomodulation therapy providing a natural, non-pharmacological option for people dealing with nerve discomfort.
What Is Cold Laser Therapy?
Cold laser therapy (also known as low-level laser therapy or LLLT) uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate healing at the cellular level. It’s non-invasive and painless, and sessions typically take only 5 to 15 minutes.
When used to assist with nerve pain, cold laser therapy may help:
- Improve circulation
- Decrease inflammation
- Support nerve regeneration
- Promote tissue healing
How Chiropractic Care May Help Nerve Pain
Chiropractic care focuses on improving musculoskeletal and nervous system function, particularly in the spine, joints, and surrounding soft tissues. When it comes to nerve pain, chiropractors aim to address biomechanical imbalances or joint dysfunctions that may be contributing to nerve irritation or compression.
For example:
- A disc bulge or herniation in the lumbar spine may compress the sciatic nerve, causing radiating leg pain (sciatica). Chiropractic adjustments and techniques such as flexion-distraction therapy may help reduce pressure on the affected nerve root.
- Cervical joint dysfunction can cause pain that radiates into the shoulders, arms, or hands. Addressing restricted movement and poor - posture may reduce associated nerve symptoms.
- Poor posture or repetitive strain (e.g., from desk work or manual labour) can lead to nerve entrapments, like in thoracic outlet syndrome or carpal tunnel syndrome. Soft tissue therapy and ergonomic advice from a chiropractor can help address contributing factors.
Chiropractors may use a range of tools to support people with nerve-related issues, including:
- Spinal adjustments to improve alignment and mobility
- Flexion-distraction tables (available at Lakeside Chiropractic) to gently decompress spinal structures
- Postural and movement retraining
- Targeted exercises and ergonomic education
- Soft tissue techniques and referral when further investigation or co-management is needed
All care is tailored to the individual, with a focus on supporting mobility and reducing nerve irritation where clinically appropriate.
Who Might Benefit from This Combined Approach?
A combined approach using cold laser therapy and chiropractic care may be considered for individuals seeking non-invasive support for nerve-related discomfort. This may include:
- Sciatica: Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, often from lumbar disc issues or spinal misalignment. Symptoms may include sharp pain down the leg, numbness, or tingling.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve in the wrist, common in people who type frequently, perform repetitive hand movements, or have underlying inflammation. Symptoms often include hand pain, numbness, and weakness.
- Peripheral Neuropathy: Common in individuals with diabetes, chemotherapy exposure, or certain vitamin deficiencies. Symptoms can include burning, tingling, or electric-shock-like sensations in the hands or feet.
- Pinched Nerves: Nerve compression in the neck, upper back, or lower spine due to poor posture, muscle tightness, arthritis, or disc injuries.
This combined care approach:
- Is gentle and drug-free
- Focuses on reducing inflammation and mechanical compression
- May help improve local blood flow, reduce nerve sensitivity, and promote functional movement
Care is provided following a detailed assessment and tailored to the individual's needs and health goals.
What Does the Research Say about Cold Laser therapy?
There is emerging evidence supporting both therapies in the context of nerve-related conditions. Here are 3 peer-reviewed studies that meet AHPRA’s criteria for acceptable evidence:
- Studies suggest that Cold Laser Therapy reduces inflammation and improves nerve function in lumbar radiculopathy (sciatica).
- Cold Laser Therapy and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
A study found that Cold Laser Therapy improves nerve conduction and reduces pain in CTS patients.
- Peripheral Neuropathy
Neuropathy results from nerve damage, commonly caused by diabetes, infections, injuries, or chemotherapy. Research shows cold Laser Therapy has been found to promote nerve regeneration and reduce pain in neuropathy patients.
Explore Cold Laser Therapy in Joondalup
Here in Lakeside Chiropractic and Cold Laser Perth, our team is available to help assess your needs and guide your care. Whether you're managing sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, neuropathy, or general nerve pain, our gentle approach may help you move with more ease and comfort. If you do experience any of the conditions above, feel free to call us at 9300 0095 or visit our website at www.lakesidechiro.com.au for more info.
