Over 600,000 carpal tunnel surgeries are performed within the US every year–and many of them fail; however, there is a better way.
Over the last ten years, numerous studies have shown the effectiveness of one treatment: photobiomodulation, or PBM for short.
PBM is one of the best non-invasive treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome. The research shows promising results in reducing symptoms, improving nerve function, and enhancing recovery.
What is Photobiomodulation (PBM)?
Photobiomodulation delivers either red light (light with a wavelength of 600 to 700 nm) or near-infrared light (light with a wavelength of 800 to 1,000 nm) to the cells in our body.
Light penetrates the skin, and the mitochondria (AKA – the powerhouses or energy sources for the cells), absorb it. Our focus is on the nerve cells.
Once the mitochondria absorb PBM light, also known as infrared or red-light therapy, they produce more energy or ATP (the fuel source that helps nerve cells repair, regenerate, and function better).
In simpler terms, the PBM device charges your nerves, giving them the energy they need to repair and grow healthy new nerve cells to function at their best.
How Does PBM Work?
How does PBM compare to other treatments for carpal tunnel?
Studies show that while both red and near-infrared light are effective, near-infrared light penetrates deeper into tissues, making it far better for nerve repair and regeneration.
Here are three major benefits of PBM.
Reduced Inflammation
PBM reduces pain and swelling by lowering inflammatory molecules while increasing antioxidants. Lowering inflammation protects the median nerve from further damage.
Improved Circulation
PBM stimulates nitric oxide, improving blood flow and delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the wrist, hand, and forearm.
Tissue Repair and Nerve Healing
PBM encourages the growth of new blood vessels, enhances collagen production, and supports nerve regeneration.
Furthermore, research shows that PBM is equally effective with nerve crush injuries. It also shows that using PBM after surgery significantly improved recovery and functionality outcomes.
Dr. Coppola and I used photobiomodulation for almost 2 decades in our clinic for peripheral neuropathy, radiculopathies, and carpal tunnel with phenomenal results.
When we used photobiomodulation pads that combined red and near-infrared lights, we got a better response to controlling and reducing the inflammation within the tissues. The key is that there must be a higher percentage of near-infrared diodes than red diodes.
Avoiding Buying Infrared Junk
Many people hear the benefits of infrared therapy and go to Amazon to buy the cheapest unit they can find. However, not all PBM devices are created equal.
Research shows that for PBM to work effectively, the device must have the correct wavelength, the proper energy output, proper coverage and pulsed light.
Many inexpensive devices on the market do not meet these standards, so watch out for the infrared junk. To learn about the devices Dr. Coppola and I recommend, email us at [email protected] or call (844)400-0101.
Post-Surgery Recovery: How PBM Can Help
Photobiomodulation can help with post-surgery recovery. Most doctors recommend surgery for carpal tunnel, but it has a large fail rate. In Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery, surgeons cut the transverse carpal ligament that forms the carpal tunnel to provide more room for the median nerve.
While it sounds like a good idea, statistics show that 50% of patients who underwent surgery reported a return of their symptoms, with some cases experiencing greater severity.
Why does this happen?
Most patients do not know that scar tissue forms while tissues recover after surgery. Scar tissue is a normal part of the healing process; however, it can encroach within the already narrow carpal tunnel space and place pressure on the median nerve. After some buildup, the patient is back to square one with their symptoms.
Statistics further show that carpal tunnel symptoms commonly occur after two years of surgery. Furthermore, the 2nd surgery typically has a 95% failure rate.
However, there is a silver lining. If you have had surgery and are struggling with recurring symptoms, PBM can be a game-changer.
Research shows infrared therapy reduces scar tissue complications, improves grip strength, and lowers the risk of returning symptoms. Most importantly, it helps you return to doing the things you love without constant pain or limitations.
Lastly, there are no side effects. You can recover without risk.
Carpal tunnel syndrome often feels like an uphill battle, with many treatments failing to deliver long-term relief. But it does not have to stay that way. Photobiomodulation offers a powerful, science-backed solution whether you are starting to experience symptoms, hoping to avoid surgery, or recovering after surgery.
Recovery takes time, but with the right tools, you can take control of your recovery.
Struggling with Neuropathy?
Dr. Coppola and Dr. Monteiro’s dedication to combating neuropathy is deeply personal, stemming from Dr. Monteiro’s experience with her mother’s severe chemo-induced neuropathy. This personal journey fueled their commitment to develop a systematic, drug-free approach to reversing neuropathy.
They founded the San Antonio Neuropathy Center, where they’ve successfully treated over 18,000 patients over the past two decades. Their acclaimed book, “Defeat Neuropathy Now in Spite of Your Doctor,” along with their neuropathy product line, stands as a testament to their expertise and innovative solutions.
Recognized as leading neuropathy specialists in America, Dr. Coppola and Dr. Monteiro offer a beacon of hope for those diagnosed with this challenging condition. If you or a loved one is seeking relief from neuropathy, reach out to us at 844 400-0101 or email us through our contact page – Click here.
Your path to healing can start today.
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