Using low-level laser therapy to alleviate low back pain

Impact of Variable Treatment Frequencies of Low-Level Laser in Reduce Low-Back Pain

Not applicable Interventional Mayo Clinic · NCT06007976

This study is testing if low-level laser therapy, along with self-help manuals, can help people with lower back pain feel better after six weeks.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMayo Clinic Academic / other
Locations1 site (Rochester, Minnesota)
Trial IDNCT06007976 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research evaluates the effectiveness of Trident low-level laser therapy (LLLT) combined with patient education manuals in reducing lower back pain. Participants will receive one of four treatment regimens consisting of 2, 4, 6, or 8 LLLT sessions, along with two self-help manuals. The study aims to compare pain levels among the different treatment options at the end of a six-week period. The primary focus is on patients reporting significant pain in their lower back.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals experiencing lower back pain with a pain intensity of 4 or higher on the Visual Analogue scale.

Not a fit: Patients who have recently used pain medications or participated in pain treatments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a non-invasive treatment option for individuals suffering from low back pain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise with low-level laser therapy for pain management, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Reporting a primary pain point in lower back.
* Pain intensity reported at baseline must be 4 and above on the Visual Analogue scale (PROMIS Numeric Rating Scale).
* Individual able to participate fully in all aspects of the study and have understood and signed study informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Have used pain medications or participated in a pain treatment within three days of study enrollment.
* Have an implanted device (including lap band) in the targeted area of Low Level Laser Treatment.
* Have used an investigational drug within 30 days of study enrollment.
* Reports being currently pregnant, lactating, or are of child-bearing potential or are likely to become pregnant during the low level laser treatment phase and are unwilling to use a reliable form of contraception. Acceptable forms of contraception include: Hormonal methods, such as birth control pills, patches, injections, vaginal ring, or implants; Barrier methods (such as a condom or diaphragm) used with a spermicide (a foam, cream, or gel that kills sperm); Intrauterine device (IUD); Total hysterectomy or tubal ligation; Abstinence (no sex).
* Have a history of any major cardiovascular events including heart valve disease, ongoing angina, cardiac arrhythmias, congestive heart failure, acute coronary syndrome, stroke, transient ischemic attack, or peripheral vascular disease.
* Have clinically significant acute or chronic progressive or unstable neurologic, hepatic, renal, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, metabolic disease (such as uncontrolled diabetes type 2), active cancer, actively receiving l treatment for cancer or within 1 year of cancer remission.
* Surgical intervention for pain within 1 month prior to enrollment.
* Active infection, wound or other external trauma to the areas to be treated with the laser
* Known photosensitivity disorder.
* Have a known history of any condition or factor judged by the investigator to preclude participation in the study or which might hinder adherence.

Where this trial is running

Rochester, Minnesota

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Low Back PainlaserLLLTback painpainlow back pain
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.