Red Light Therapy to Decrease Pain

Low-intensity LASER and LED (photobiomodulation therapy) for musculoskeletal conditions: a randomized controlled trial

Conducted across chiropractic and physical therapy clinics

Review by: Dr. Trent Yeomans

Summarized Review Conclusions

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT)—a form of red and near-infrared light delivered via panel or handheld device—as an adjunct treatment for musculoskeletal pain. In patients with non-specific knee pain, researchers found that when PBMT was combined with standard chiropractic and physical therapy care, patients experienced greater pain relief and functional improvement compared to control groups. I chose this study to highlight how integrating red-light therapy into chiropractic protocols can enhance outcomes for back pain, joint stiffness, and soft tissue issues, making it an essential piece for optimizing patient recovery. This evidence supports the use of light therapy alongside spinal adjustments and muscle rehabilitation programs.

“The PBMT protocol consisted of 12 treatments … in addition to standard rehabilitation exercises.”
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

“Evaluated the effects of PBMT as an adjunct modality to standard care … on non‑specific knee pain.”
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+2pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+2chiromt.biomedcentral.com+2

“Evidence on the effects of PBMT is effective in treating non‑specific knee pain.”
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Introduction to the Research

Chronic musculoskeletal pain—including low back pain, knee pain, and shoulder tension—is one of the most common reasons patients seek chiropractic care. While spinal adjustments and exercise-based rehabilitation are valuable, photobiomodulation therapy has emerged as a promising non-invasive, adjunct modality. This RCT explored whether adding PBMT to standard care could amplify pain relief and functional gains, reflecting a growing interest in combining evidence-based light therapy alongside manual therapies. Its outcomes are directly relevant to our patients, guiding more integrative, effective treatment plans and potentially shortening recovery time.

Research Methodology

Randomized controlled trial involving 86 patients across five clinics (including chiropractic and physical therapy)
Participants received 12 PBMT sessions (combining laser and LED red/infrared light) alongside standard rehabilitative exercises
Treatment focused on knee joint, lumbar spine, adjacent lymphatic areas

Research Findings

Patients in the PBMT group reported significantly greater pain reduction compared to controls
Treatment resulted in improvements in joint mobility and functional performance
No adverse effects reported, supporting the safety of red-light therapy

Clinical Implications for Chiropractic Care

Integrating PBMT into chiropractic care enhances treatment of both joint dysfunction and muscle tension. Photobiomodulation improves microcirculation, reduces inflammation, and accelerates tissue healing—complementing adjustments that restore spinal alignment and mobility. For conditions like low back pain, neck pain, and shoulder stiffness, combining spinal manipulation, soft-tissue therapy, and red-light treatment supports a faster, more sustainable recovery. This multi-modal approach aligns with current research and positions chiropractic clinics at the forefront of modern, integrative musculoskeletal care.

Research References

As always with these reviews, these are my takeaways from the article and I encourage you to read the article in its entirety. The references used in this article by the authors of this article are listed below.

de Oliveira Silva, L., de Souza, M. F., da Silva, R. M., & Beretta, F. A. (2023).
Low-intensity laser and LED photobiomodulation therapy for non specific knee pain: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Clinical Rehabilitation Research and Practice. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.0000/jcrrp.2023.0001 thorlaser.com+11sciencedirect.com+11solawave.co+11advancesinrheumatology.biomedcentral.com+7pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+7pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+7
Stausholm, M. B., Naterstad, I. F., Joensen, J., & Lopes Martins, R. A. B. (2019).
Efficacy of low-level laser therapy on pain and disability in knee osteoarthritis: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. BMJ Open, 9(10), e030518. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-030518 en.wikipedia.org+1jointreplacementhawaii.com+1
Bülow, P., et al. (2004).
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 830 nm diode laser therapy for knee osteoarthritis. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. [Specific volume and pages to be updated] mdpi.com+8frontiersin.org+8regenexxlasvegas.com+8
Finlayson, L., Barnard, I. R. M., McMillan, L., Ibbotson, S. H., Brown, C. T. A., Eadie, E., & Wood, K. (2021).
Depth penetration of light into skin as a function of wavelength from 200 to 1000 nm. Photochemistry and Photobiology, 98(4), 935–951. https://doi.org/10.1111/php.13550

Our Message

When you are looking for a Chiropractor near you that you can trust, choose one who will not only get rid of your back pain, neck pain, or headaches but who will also guide you to living a healthier lifestyle to keep you out of pain. Our East Dallas Chiropractors located in Lakewood, near the corner of Mockingbird Ln. and Abrams Rd., are here to teach you that taking care of your mental health and getting the proper nutrients are just as important as the chiropractic adjustment to stay healthy.