Low-Level Laser Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Pilot Study Shows Promising Results
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects hand function and quality of life, causing pain, numbness, and weakness. A recent pilot study investigated the effects of a single Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) session on CTS symptoms, showing significant improvements in pain, tingling, numbness, and hand strength.
This open-label, pre-post intervention study, conducted at the Rejuvenation Center of the Carolinas, was led by Dr. Rick Amy and Dr. Francisco Cidral and utilized the Avant Wellness LZ30 Pro Z laser.
Laser details: Avant Wellness LZ30 Pro Z
Study Highlights & Methodology
🔹 Objective: To assess the impact of a single LLLT session on pain, function, and strength in individuals with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS).
🔹 Participants: 15 male and female individuals diagnosed with CTS were selected, pre-screened, and included in the study.
🔹 Intervention: The LZ30 Pro Z Class 3B laser (1,400mW at 808nm, 1,000mW at 637nm) was used in a chronic pain protocol, applying red (RED) and infrared (IR) light to targeted areas:
✔ Anterior cervical spine (30s RED + 30s IR)
✔ Anterior shoulder (coracobrachialis) (30s RED + 30s IR)
✔ Posterior elbow (30s RED + 30s IR)
✔ Upper forearm (30s RED + 30s IR)
✔ Dorsal wrist (30s RED + 30s IR)
✔ Carpal tunnel (flexor retinaculum) (30s RED + 30s IR)
🔹 Assessment Measures:
- Pain – Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)
- Hand Strength – Measured with a manual dynamometer
- Function & Symptom Severity – Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ)
Key Findings
✔ Significant reduction in pain, tingling, and numbness
✔ Improvement in grip strength (+18.6%)
✔ Better symptom severity and function scores on BCTQ
📊 Pain Reduction:
✅ 58.1% reduction in pain immediately after treatment
✅ 48.4% reduction in pain 2 days later
📊 Tingling & Numbness:
✅ 53.1% reduction in tingling (immediate)
✅ 50% reduction in tingling (2 days later)
✅ 46.4% reduction in numbness (immediate & 2 days later)
📊 Grip Strength:
✅ 160% improvement immediately after treatment
✅ 120% improvement 2 days later
📊 Functional & Symptom Scores (BCTQ):
✅ 26.6% reduction in symptom severity
✅ 22.6% improvement in functional status
What This Means for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
This pilot study suggests that a single session of LLLT using the Avant Wellness LZ30 Pro Z laser can provide immediate and lasting relief for individuals suffering from CTS. The results highlight the potential of non-invasive, photobiomodulation-based interventions as an alternative or complementary approach to traditional treatments like splinting, medication, and surgery.
While further randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed, these preliminary findings support the effectiveness of LLLT in managing CTS symptoms and improving hand function.
Final Thoughts
As LLLT gains traction in pain management and rehabilitation, studies like this reinforce its potential to revolutionize conservative care for musculoskeletal conditions. If you’re looking for non-invasive, evidence-based solutions for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, PBM with Class 3B lasers might be worth considering!
