Treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia Using LLLT/PBMT

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), also known as Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT), is a highly effective, non-invasive, and drug-free treatment for trigeminal neuralgia (TN), in Melbourne, Victoria. Led by Dr Shikha Parmar, a GP with expertise in managing and resolving chronic musculoskeletal pain, this treatment involves the application of red and near-infrared light to promote cellular repair in injured tissues. LLLT is safe, painless, and targets the root cause of the injury, unlike pain medications that simply mask the pain. Supported by scientific research from reputable institutions, including Harvard University and NASA, LLLT is an evidence-based therapy for nerve-related conditions, including trigeminal neuralgia.

Gentle. Drug-Free. Clinically Proven

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Key Points

  • Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN) is a condition characterised by intense, sharp, or stabbing pain along the trigeminal nerve, which supplies sensation to the face.
  • Common causes of TN include nerve irritation or damage from trauma, infections (such as shingles), or vascular issues (e.g., compression by dilated blood vessels). In some cases, it may also be caused by multiple sclerosis (MS), where nerve damage results from demyelination.
  • LLLT can effectively treat TN caused by nerve damage or irritation, promoting tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and supporting nerve regeneration.
  • LLLT may not help in cases of TN caused by mechanical pressure on the nerve, such as dilated blood vessels or tumours. These require surgical or medical interventions to address the pressure.
  • LLLT may also have limited efficacy in TN associated with multiple sclerosis due to the nature of nerve degeneration and demyelination involved in MS.
  • Standard treatments for TN, such as anti-seizure medications, painkillers, or surgery, may provide temporary relief but do not address the root cause of nerve damage.
  • LLLT offers a drug-free, non-invasive option that promotes long-term healing by addressing the root cause of TN—nerve inflammation and damage.
  • At Laser Pain Therapy, all LLLT treatments are GP-led by Dr Shikha Parmar and delivered as part of a medically supervised six-week program, including rehabilitation support tailored to each patient’s needs.
  • LLLT has been scientifically proven to reduce pain, restore nerve function, and improve outcomes in cases of TN caused by nerve damage or irritation.
Click here for FAQ/Costs

What is Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)?

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a neurological disorder causing severe, sharp, and often debilitating pain in the face, usually on one side. This pain is triggered by irritation or compression of the trigeminal nerve, which transmits sensory information from the face to the brain. TN is characterised by sudden, intense episodes of shooting pain that can last seconds to minutes and are typically provoked by activities such as talking, eating, or touching the face. These episodes can be excruciating, significantly affecting daily life.

TN is most commonly caused by blood vessels pressing on the trigeminal nerve. However, it can also result from nerve damage due to aging, facial trauma, or multiple sclerosis (MS). In some cases, TN may be associated with tumours or other underlying conditions.

Causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia can develop from several factors, including:

  • Blood vessel compression: An artery or vein pressing on the trigeminal nerve, the most common cause of TN.
  • Multiple sclerosis (MS): MS causes damage to the protective covering (myelin) of nerve fibres, which can lead to TN.
  • Facial trauma or surgery: Injury or surgery affecting the trigeminal nerve can lead to nerve damage and result in TN.
  • Aging: As individuals age, the trigeminal nerve becomes more vulnerable to compression.
  • Tumours or abnormal growths: These can compress the trigeminal nerve, contributing to TN.   

Where LLLT May Help

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) can be particularly effective for trigeminal neuralgia caused by nerve irritation or damage, such as from viral infections (e.g., shingles) or trauma. LLLT works by promoting cellular healing, reducing inflammation, and supporting nerve regeneration in the affected area. It is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that targets the root cause of the pain by addressing the nerve irritation rather than just masking symptoms.

However, LLLT may not be effective when TN is caused by mechanical pressure on the trigeminal nerve from dilated blood vessels or tumours, as these conditions require surgical or other medical interventions to relieve the pressure. Additionally, TN resulting from multiple sclerosis involves nerve degeneration due to demyelination, which may not be responsive to LLLT, as it does not directly reverse the underlying neurological damage.

Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia

The symptoms of TN can vary, but the most common feature is intense, sharp, shooting pain in the areas served by the trigeminal nerve, which includes:

  • Pain along the jaw, gums, teeth, cheeks, or eyes
  • Episodes of severe, stabbing pain triggered by talking, chewing, or even light touch
  • Pain that may occur in brief, repetitive bursts or persist for a few minutes
  • A feeling of discomfort or tenderness around the affected area in between pain attacks
  • Episodes that can last from seconds to a few minutes and may occur multiple times a day

How is Trigeminal Neuralgia Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia is based on a thorough clinical evaluation.
Dr Shikha Parmar will take a detailed history of your symptoms, including the onset and frequency of pain, triggers, and its impact on your daily life.

A physical examination will assess the area of pain and evaluate the function of the trigeminal nerve.Imaging techniques, such as MRI, may be used to rule out underlying causes of nerve compression, including blood vessel abnormalities or multiple sclerosis. X-rays may also be used in certain cases to rule out other conditions, though they are typically not required unless other causes are suspected.

Treatment for Trigeminal Neuralgia

Why Choose Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)?

Conventional treatments for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) often include anticonvulsant medications, pain relievers, and nerve blocks. While these can provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying nerve damage and may come with side effects or diminished effectiveness over time. Surgery is sometimes considered but is typically a last resort due to its invasiveness and potential complications.

 

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), or Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT), offers a drug-free, non-invasive solution that targets the root cause of TN by promoting nerve healing and reducing inflammation. LLLT works by stimulating cellular repair and restoring normal nerve function, addressing the underlying nerve damage that causes the pain.

 

At Laser Pain Therapy, LLLT is integrated into a structured, six-week program under the medical supervision of Dr Shikha Parmar, ensuring targeted treatment tailored to each patient’s needs. This approach is ideal for chronic conditions, especially those where conventional treatments have been ineffective.

How LLLT Works

LLLT uses red and near-infrared light to penetrate the skin and stimulate healing at the cellular level.

It works by:

  • Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are common in nerve injuries
  • Improving blood flow and oxygenation to the affected nerve tissues
  • Enhancing lymphatic drainage, helping to remove waste products and toxins
  • Stimulating ATP (cellular energy) production, which accelerates tissue repair
  • Supporting nerve regeneration and restoring normal function

LLLT delivers these benefits without applying mechanical stress to the affected area, making it ideal for conditions like TN, where touch or pressure can worsen symptoms.

Read how LLLT does this here.

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Proven, Safe, and Effective

LLLT is supported by over 700 randomized controlled trials and more than 7,000 studies demonstrating its effectiveness in pain relief and tissue repair. It is:

  • Scientifically proven and evidence-based
  • Non-invasive and painless
  • Drug-free and non-toxic
  • Clinically shown to relieve pain and restore function

At our GP-led clinic, all patients are thoroughly assessed by Dr Shikha Parmar to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Treatments are delivered by highly trained assistants under medical supervision, ensuring you receive the highest quality care.

 

What to Expect

LLLT for trigeminal neuralgia aims to:

  • Relieve pain and reduce inflammation
  • Promote healing of the affected nerve tissue
  • Improve sensitivity and nerve function in the treated area
  • Support long-term recovery through rehabilitation

As the treatment progresses, we often see a significant reduction in pain and improvement in function, leading to better quality of life and reduced dependency on medication.

Treatment Plan

Our Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) program for trigeminal neuralgia is medically supervised by Dr Shikha Parmar and tailored to your specific needs. It is designed to address the root cause of your pain and support long-term healing.

The treatment plan includes:

  • Up to 12 LLLT sessions, with a review after 6 sessions to assess progress
  • Individualised advice for managing your condition and modifying activities
  • A guided rehabilitation and recovery plan to restore function and prevent recurrence

While outcomes vary, we generally expect a 15–20% improvement in pain or function within the first 6 sessions if the treatment is likely to be effective. If this threshold is not met – which is uncommon – we will reassess the treatment plan, and treatment will generally not continue. The number of sessions can be adjusted based on progress and discussed with you in detail.

If a positive treatment response is seen after the first 2 to 3 weeks, we recommend 6 further treatments, along with introducing our protocol of light and gradual graded rehab to help achieve up to 70 to 90% improvement in best-case scenarios.

Ongoing treatment beyond the anticipated 12-treatment protocol is generally not required, as your immune system will continue the healing process once laser therapy is withdrawn.

All treatment decisions are made collaboratively, keeping your progress, preferences, and medical context in mind.

Ready for Lasting Relief?

If you are struggling with trigeminal neuralgia, we invite you to contact our experienced team at Laser Pain Therapy. Our LLLT treatment offers a safe, effective, and lasting solution to restore your comfort, mobility, and quality of life.

Contact us today to arrange your consultation and take the first step towards recovery.
📍 Located in Melbourne
📞 (03) 8529 2225 Contact Us

View treatment cost here

Cost / FAQ

At Laser Pain Therapy, we use the terms Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) and Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) interchangeably, as they both refer to the same therapeutic approach. “LLLT” specifically focuses on the use of laser light, while “PBMT” is the broader scientific term describing how light interacts with the body to promote healing.

Both therapies stimulate cellular activity, reduce inflammation, repair tissue, and accelerate the healing process.

The initial consultation with Dr Shikha Parmar requires up to 60 minutes where your condition is fully assessed along with your medical history. Dr Parmar will take a thorough history of your problem from its onset, through its progression to now. She will review any imaging reports pertaining to your problem, and may recommend further investigations. Dr Parmar will give you a detailed explanation of your problem, and will discuss our holistic approach and management plan including the utilisation of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT). If your condition is amenable to LLLT the treatment is commenced at the initial consultation. A medical consultation with Dr Shikha Parmar, GP, is billed and is rebatable through Medicare for patients who hold a Medicare card.

The fee for an initial consultation including Low Level Laser Therapy treatment is $257.00. This includes a Medicare rebate for the GP consultation of $84.90, the out of pocket cost being $172.10.

Pension and Health Care Card holders receive a further reduced fee for the initial consultation of $207.00 only with the out of pocket fee (gap fee) being $122.10.

For each subsequent follow-up consultation  involving review of progress, tailored advice and management etc, and Low Level Laser Therapy treatment, a fee of $129.25 applies. This includes a Medicare rebate for the GP consultation of $43.90, the out of pocket cost (gap fee) being $85.35.

Longer review visits are charged at $210.20 which includes a Medicare rebate $84.90, the out-of-pocket cost being $125.30.
An $8.00 surcharge applies to appointments after 6pm.

Fees may be subject to change and will be confirmed with you at the time of booking. We utilise state of the art equipment from Europe and the USA operated with the assistance of highly trained clinic assistants.  No further rebate can be claimed from private health insurance. We are unable to offer bulk billing.

Yes.  LLLT has been in active and beneficial use in Europe for nearly 30 years. There are more than 200 double blind positive studies confirming the clinical effect of LLLT.
Published in the world’s top scientific journals:

  • Nature, Pain, PNS, Blood, BMJ, Spine, Muscle and Nerve, The Lancet, Circulation, BJSM
  • 30 LLLT papers published a month
  • Over 4000 laboratory studies and over 400 randomised controlled trials

Over 2,500 clinical studies and published research reports have shown the effectiveness of LLLT for a variety of health issues. Looking at the limited LLLT dental literature alone (370 studies), more than 90% of these studies do verify the clinical value of laser therapy.
LLLT has been a staple in veterinary practices for decades.
In the past 6 years, professional sports teams have begun utilising LLLT.

In the last 10 years 8 systematic reviews have found in favour of LLLT

  • American College of Physicians Guidelines include a “strong recommendation” for Low-Level Laser Therapy as a non-invasive Treatments for Acute, Subacute & Chronic Low Back Pain. (2017) Click here
  • BMJ LLLT for chronic non-specific low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials found “moderate quality of evidence” and “clinically important benefits” in the short term. (2016) Click here
  • BMJ sports medicine journal, systematic review of surgical and conservative interventions for frozen shoulder found “strong evidence” for LLLT. (2010) Click here
  • The BMJ clinical evidence recommendations for tennis elbow 2011 now include LLLT Click here
  • American Physical Therapy Association guidelines recommend LLLT for Achilles tendonitis. (2010) Click here
  • Lancet systematic review: “LLLT reduces pain immediately after treatment in acute neck pain and up to 22 weeks after completion of treatment in patients with chronic neck pain”. (2009) Click here
  • World Health Organisation (Bone and Joint Task Force) for neck pain Low Level Laser Therapy “more effective than no treatment, sham, or alternative interventions” (2008) Click here

Laser Therapy does not heat or cut tissue, unlike high intensity lasers. The question is often asked “If it’s a laser aren’t they used in surgical operations, to cauterise tissue?” The answer is “Yes” – hot lasers are able to cauterise (cut) tissue. However, the ones we use are “Low Level Lasers” of class 3B, the most researched and proven class in LLLT, and with designed parameters that make it impossible to damage even one cell in the body. Our lasers stimulate and energise the cells.

In the past 4 years, the FDA has ruled that LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy) is safe and the only contraindication (warning) is not to use it directly in the eyes.

For the past 30 years the technology of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) has been formally accepted in many parts of the world such as Canada, USA, Brazil, Europe, Scandinavia, Russia and Japan. In all this time there have been no recorded long-term adverse effects from its use. It is considered to be non-invasive, painless and safe.

Industry has been using laser diodes for years in such applications as barcode readers, CD players, DVD players, laser printers and pointers. The FDA has listed bio-stimulation lasers as non-significant risk (NSR) devices.

Hundreds of research studies have shown Laser Therapy to be safe and effective. Laser Therapy is non-invasive, non-toxic and non-thermal. Unlike other forms of radiation, Laser Therapy is beneficial rather than harmful to tissue. Over 400 LLLT clinical trials (RCTs) and over 2500 laboratory studies have been published. It has proven more effective and safer than pharmaceutical anti-inflammatories across a range of musculoskeletal conditions.

LLLT also improves healing and reduces muscle fatigue, muscle damage and delayed onset muscle soreness or DOMS.

There are normally no adverse effects from LLLT, however, patients occasionally experience mild discomfort/ache after treatment. This is due to a restimulation of the inflammatory phase and should settle down after 24 – 48 hours.

The answer is no. No mutational effects have been observed resulting from light with wavelengths in the red or infrared range and of doses used within LLLT. But what happens if I treat someone who has cancer and is unaware of it? Can the cancer’s growth be stimulated? The effects of LLLT on cancer cells in vitro have been studied, and it was observed that they could be stimulated by laser light. However, with respect to a cancer in vivo, the situation is rather different. Experiments on rats have shown that small tumours treated with LLLT can recede and completely disappear, although laser treatment had no effect on tumours over a certain size. It is probably the local immune system, which is stimulated more than the tumour.

The situation is the same for bacteria and virus in culture. These are stimulated by laser light in certain doses, while a bacterial or viral infection is eradicated more quickly after treatment with LLLT.

Laser Therapy should be avoided in the following instances:

  • Over the womb for women in pregnancy
  • Over cancerous tumour, primary or secondary (LLLT is not a treatment for these conditions)
  • Direct irradiation of the eyes

At Laser Pain Therapy, we use state-of-the-art, TGA-approved laser devices, applied by highly trained assistants. Our laser devices deliver the appropriate red and infrared laser energy to trigger the desired tissue response. With the application of up to 37 diodes (laser lights) across multiple devices, we ensure time-efficient treatment without compromising dosage or energy delivery. Unlike LED devices, our laser technology provides deeper penetration and more effective tissue healing.

Dr Shikha Parmar, an experienced GP with over 30 years in General Practice and 14 years of expertise in photobiomodulation therapy, leads our clinic, making her one of the most experienced doctors in this field. Treatment at Laser Pain Therapy is medically supervised, ensuring each patient receives a thorough assessment that takes into account not only their presenting condition but also relevant health factors, such as co-morbidities, medications, lifestyle, work, personal activity demands, and nutritional deficiencies. This holistic approach allows us to tailor care with LLLT at the core, supported by personalised advice.

Additionally, our treatment plans are finite, with clear goal-setting and regular progress reviews, ensuring that each patient is on track towards long-term recovery and optimal outcomes.

At Laser Pain Therapy, we use advanced equipment with laser diodes, not LED lights. Unlike LEDs, laser diodes provide more focused light with deeper penetration, making them significantly more effective for treating musculoskeletal conditions.

Our state-of-the-art equipment features 37 laser diodes, allowing us to efficiently cover a larger surface area. This optimises treatment time, ensuring deeper penetration for superior results. Unlike devices that use just 2-4 diodes, our technology delivers more effective treatment in less time, promoting faster healing, reduced inflammation, and long-lasting pain relief.

The effects of LLLT are accumulative. The good news is that for most patients undergoing a treatment program, the results from the treatments are sustained. While some patients get immediate results, improvements are often not noticed until after 3 to 5 treatments. Most patients usually require 6-12 treatments to achieve resolution of the problem or a lasting effect.

More severe conditions will require more treatments than less severe injuries. Since each person’s condition varies in severity the doctor will determine after reviewing your condition how laser treatments may benefit you and how many you might require

Your situation will be assessed after 6 treatments and if there is no improvement after 6 to 8 treatments (very uncommon), LLLT will not be continued and alternatives will be looked at for your future management.

You will need to follow precautions in order to avoid re-injury or the pain may return. Low Level Laser Therapy not only helps injured tissues heal faster, it also makes them stronger and less vulnerable to re-injury.

Contact us to book a consultation at our clinic or to learn more about how this form of therapy could help you.

No. Low level lasers do not generate perceivable heat. Therefore, when the laser contacts the skin the patient experiences no burning as a result of the laser. Most people feel nothing at all while a few may feel a slight tingling or warmth during the treatment.

No. As Dr Shikha Parmar is a General Practitioner a doctor’s referral is not required.

With our dedicated clinic in Melbourne, contact us at Laser Pain Therapy to discuss how we can assist you

Images and Illustrations Disclaimer
Please note that the images, diagrams, and illustrations used on this website are for demonstration and illustrative purposes only. They are intended to provide a general overview of Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) and Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT). The specific methods and equipment we use at Laser Pain Therapy may differ from those depicted. For instance, while some images may show a small laser being applied to the skin, we utilise advanced cluster lasers equipped with multiple diodes, offering superior coverage and effectiveness for treating musculoskeletal conditions. Our treatment protocols are tailored to each patient’s unique needs, using the latest technology for optimal results.

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“The use of low levels of visible or near infrared light for reducing pain, inflammation and edema, promoting healing of wounds, deeper tissues and nerves, and preventing cell death and tissue damage has been known for over forty years”.

Associate Professor, Harvard Medical School: Mechanisms of Low Level Light Therapy (2006). Proceedings of SPIE, 6140, 614001

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Laser Pain Therapy

South Yarra, Victoria
Suite 8, 200 Toorak Road
(Ground floor from William St)
South Yarra, Vic 3141
Ph: 03 8529 2225
Email us:
info@laserpaintherapy.com.au

Easy free street parking:
If driving you will find many free 1P and 2P spots on and around Toorak Rd and William St near the clinic.

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TRANSPORT ACCESS: Train: South Yarra Station, 100m, 1 minute walk Tram: Route 58, stop no. 127
Call now: 03 8529 2225
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We are dedicated to helping our patients with the most technically advanced, proven and affordable medical therapies. Our treatment modalities offer evidence-based, safe, non-invasive and painless solutions to improve health, well-being and quality of life.

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The contents of this website have not been evaluated by the Australian Government Department of Health. The information of this site is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Individual articles are based upon the opinions of the author, who retains copyright as listed…..Continue Reading

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