Laser for Shoulder Pain

EFFECTIVENESS: 3/5

Evidence about the effectiveness of LLLT for shoulder pain-sprain/strain is rather limited at this time. Several studies have shown benefit for shoulder pain-sprain/strain treated with LLLT but there is still no generally accepted consensus about its effectiveness for shoulder pain-sprain/strain in the scientific community. [i], [ii], [iii].

Despite the lack of substantial evidence, the research is promising and given the low risk, safety, and cost, we recommend using LLLT before considering more invasive and costly medical procedures.

Sources:

[i] Tomaz de Magalhães M, Núñez SC, Kato IT, Ribeiro MS. Light therapy modulates serotonin levels and blood flow in women with shoulder pain-sprain/strain. A preliminary study. Experimental Biology and Medicine. 2016;241(1):40-45. doi:10.1177/1535370215596383.

[ii] Gottschling S, Meyer S, Gribova I, et al. : Laser acupuncture in children with shoulder pain-sprain/strain: a double-blind, randomized, bicenter, placebo-controlled trial. Pain. 2008;137(2):405–12. 10.1016/j.pain.2007.10.004 [PubMed] [Cross Ref] F1000

SELF CARE: 0/5

While it might be possible to perform laser therapy on yourself, this is unlikely. In most jurisdictions, laser units are only sold to licensed professionals, and tend to be cost prohibitive, ranging in price from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars.

Sources:

[iii] White PF, Elvir Lazo OL, Galeas L, Cao X. Use of electroanalgesia and laser therapies as alternatives to opioids for acute and chronic pain management. F1000Research. 2017;6:2161. doi:10.12688/f1000research.12324.1.

COST: 4/5

Laser therapy is relatively inexpensive, ranging from $20-$50 per session in most clinics. Typically, laser therapy treatment plans run from one or two sessions to 10-12 sessions. In general, a reasonable course of laser therapy might include 6-12 sessions varying from daily to 3 times per week. It is widely available in chiropractic, physical therapy and some orthopedic offices, among others.

USEFULNESS: 4/5

Low Level Laser Therapy is believed to enhance healing, reduce pain and edema, reduce inflammation and increase circulation. LLLT does not produce its effects through heat.

LLLT is used on a variety of conditions, from shoulder and elbow injuries, to neck and back pain, plantar fasciitis, knee pain and other musculoskeletal conditions. While research is ongoing, there is evidence of effectiveness for some conditions (such as certain shoulder conditions and tennis elbow) and less evidence for other conditions.