If you’re one of the millions living with chronic neck pain—whether from long hours at a desk, postural strain, or persistent muscle tension—you know how it can disrupt daily life. While painkillers and physical therapy are common go-tos, emerging research highlights photobiomodulation (PBM) as a promising, non-invasive option. Let’s dive into the science behind PBM for neck pain, drawing insights from recent clinical trials that shed light on its effectiveness, alone and in combination with other therapies.

What Is Photobiomodulation (PBM)?

PBM, often referred to as low-level laser therapy, uses specific wavelengths of light (typically near-infrared) to stimulate cellular function. Unlike high-intensity lasers that generate heat, PBM works through photochemical reactions, promoting tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and modulating pain signals. It’s been studied for decades in musculoskeletal care, and recent trials have focused on its role in chronic neck pain—defined as pain lasting 3 months or more, a condition that affects up to 73% of the population at some point.

Key Findings from Clinical Trials on PBM and Neck Pain

Research consistently shows that PBM offers meaningful benefits for chronic neck pain, especially when combined with other modalities or used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Here’s what the latest studies reveal:

1. PBM + TENS: A Powerful Combination for Movement-Related Pain

A 2024 double-blind, randomized controlled trial published in the Brazilian Journal of Physical Therapy (PMC11570946) tested PBM alone, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) alone, their combination, and a sham treatment in 144 participants with chronic neck pain. The results were striking: while PBM or TENS alone didn’t reduce resting pain intensity, the combination of PBM + TENS significantly decreased pain during movement. It also improved local hyperalgesia (increased sensitivity to pressure) and patients’ global perceived effect—how much better they felt overall—compared to sham treatment. Even one month after treatment, these benefits persisted.

The study’s authors note that PBM and TENS work through different mechanisms: TENS targets nerve receptors to block pain signals, while PBM reduces oxidative stress, increases serotonin levels, and inhibits neuromuscular transmission. Together, they create a synergistic effect that enhances pain relief.

2. PBM Outperforms Traditional Physiotherapy for Pain and Disability

Another randomized controlled trial (PMC8558734) compared PBM (using high-intensity laser therapy, HILT) to ultrasound-based physiotherapy in 60 office workers with chronic non-specific neck pain. After 10 sessions over two weeks, both groups showed improvements in pain (measured by the Visual Analogue Scale, VAS) and neck disability (Neck Disability Index, NDI). However, PBM was significantly more effective: participants in the PBM group had 50-60% greater reductions in VAS scores and reported less interference with daily activities (sleep, work, socializing) than those in the physiotherapy group.

The researchers attributed PBM’s superiority to its ability to stimulate β-endorphin secretion, enhance microcirculation, and reduce inflammation—mechanisms that address both pain and the underlying tissue dysfunction driving chronic neck pain.

3. PBM Targets Key Pain Pathways in Chronic Neck Pain

A 2020 study protocol (PMC7034724) designed to investigate PBM and TENS for chronic neck pain emphasizes the therapy’s potential to modulate central sensitization—a common issue in long-term pain where the nervous system becomes hyperresponsive. While the protocol focused on study design, its literature review highlights that PBM may work by releasing endogenous opioids, reducing glutamate (a pain-promoting neurotransmitter), and improving tissue oxygenation—all critical for breaking the cycle of chronic pain.

Who Can Benefit from PBM for Neck Pain?

PBM is particularly well-suited for:

• Individuals with chronic non-specific neck pain (the most common type, where no single cause is identified).
• Those seeking non-pharmacological pain relief (to avoid medication side effects or dependency).
• People with neck pain that worsens with movement (a key area where PBM + TENS excels).
• Office workers, athletes, and anyone with postural-related neck tension.

It’s important to note that PBM is not recommended for those with skin lesions, pregnancy, or a history of cancer in the neck area—always consult a healthcare provider before starting treatment.

How to Incorporate PBM into Your Neck Pain Routine

Based on the research, the most effective use of PBM for neck pain includes:

• Combination Therapy: Pair PBM with TENS for enhanced pain relief during movement, as shown in the 2024 trial (PMC11570946).
• Consistent Sessions: Most trials used 10 sessions over 2 weeks (5 sessions per week), which appears to be an optimal protocol for lasting benefits.
• Targeted Application: PBM should be applied directly to painful areas of the neck and shoulder girdle, as guided by a physical therapist or trained practitioner.

The Bottom Line: PBM Is a Science-Backed Tool for Neck Pain

Chronic neck pain doesn’t have to be a lifelong struggle. Research—including randomized controlled trials (PMC11570946, PMC8558734)—confirms that photobiomodulation is an effective, non-invasive therapy for reducing pain, improving function, and enhancing quality of life. Whether used alone or with TENS, PBM addresses the root causes of neck pain through cellular-level healing, making it a valuable addition to modern pain management.

If you’re tired of living with neck pain, talk to a physical therapist or pain specialist about whether PBM is right for you. With science on its side, it just might be the relief you’ve been searching for.

References

1. de Oliveira Silva M, de Souza Melo A, da Silva Santos J, et al. Combined photobiomodulation and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for chronic neck pain: a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Brazilian Journal of Physical Therapy. 2024; PMC11570946. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11570946/
2. Yildirim H, Kaya A, Aydin S, et al. Efficacy of high-intensity laser therapy versus ultrasound therapy in patients with chronic non-specific neck pain: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation. 2021; PMC8558734. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8558734/
3. dos Santos LR, de Almeida Neto AS, de Oliveira Lima G, et al. Photobiomodulation therapy and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for chronic neck pain: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials. 2020; PMC7034724. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7034724/