Has anyone had success with Red Light therapy for foot neuropathy?

Posted by keifriffards @keifriffards, Jan 29 12:08am

I have neuropathy in my feet that is advancing up my legs. I have known issues with my spine but have hoped to avoid surgery. Gabapentin and DULoxetine stole my soul with horrible brain fog, fatigue and dizziness, with no perceived benefit. I am currently using a boot from NovaaLab that has Red and NIR Lights, but so far I haven’t seen any improvement in several weeks. Any input or feedback would be most appreciated.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Neuropathy Support Group.

Profile picture for John, Volunteer Mentor @johnbishop

@keifriffards You might find the following discussion on spine surgeries helpful.
-- January 2026 spine surgeries - Let's hear the positive outcomes!
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/january-2026-spine-surgeries/
I do think surgeries and back surgeries in particular can be a little scary and I don't think you are alone with your concerns. @jenniferhunter or others who have had back surgeries may have some thoughts or suggestions also.

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@johnbishop thank you kindly for your reply, and sharing the link. I will give it a look, and I appreciate your feedback.

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Profile picture for John, Volunteer Mentor @johnbishop

Hello @keifriffards, Welcome to Connect. It sounds like your neuropathy symptoms may be due to compression of nerves in your spine. I'm not a doctor but the red light therapy may or may not provide relief for your symptoms. There are quite a few members who have shared their experience in other discussions if you want to scan through them.
-- Anyone tried using red light therapy?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/anyone-tried-using-red-light-therapy/
-- Far infrared better than red light therapy
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/far-infrared-better-than-red-light-therapy/
-- Anyone try LLLT red light therapy for helping with PN?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/anyone-try-lllt-red-light-therapy-for-helping-with-pn/
It might be helpful to connect with others that have had the surgery that you are trying to avoid. Did your doctors tell you what surgery might help?

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John bishop The primary treatment that the Practitioner I reported my neuropathy to was a spinal decompression. Great results to an age old back issue but I had to revisit the neuropathy issue and continued my treatment with several treatments of laser light therapy and shockwave treatments coupled with interferrential electrical stimulation. I also researched B vitamins and commenced to entertain vitamin therapy as well. To date the results are very promising but I must realize this isn't a quick fix. I also have an exercise program that strengthens my leg muscles and assists to improve balance. I try not to ignore the necessity of good foot wear (perhaps orthotics) but I find an insert that goes by the name 'Barefoot science' a very helpful assist to my feet performing a bit better. Things are improving noticeably - I have had to practice patience. I shutter to think what I would be like now had I not jumped on the 'find a solution' bandwagon.

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You would be smart to avoid surgery. It introduces new problems which may be part of the healing process but nonetheless uncomfortable. Six weeks ago I had a shin shave biopsy done to remove a lesion, which turned out to be non-cancerous afterall. Since then, I have been dealing with various pains and sensations as the skin on shin is thin and sensitive.

The red light therapy helped me deal with my neuropathy last summer. I have since been diagnosed with celiac disease--which explains why I have the neuropathy. I am on a strict gluten-free diet. Have you tried dietary adjustments? They seemed to have helped me but I pay more for food and am limited in what I may eat. My neurologist said I will need to be on this diet lifelong.
Also, have you tried vitamin supplements? Some of the Bs, ALA and D help with neuropathic pain and help regenerate nerves. It sure beats surgery.

Also,weather conditions came make neuropathy worse--people with autoimmune conditions may struggle in cold weather. I know here in NYC we are having a brutally cold winter so it affects my feet. I should probably wear warmer shoes and socks.

Our bodies are complex so there are myriads of ways of approaching healing and getting stronger. Wish you luck.

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