Cold Laser for Nerve Pain in Adelaide
Peripheral nerve pain, neuropathy, and nerve-related conditions can cause persistent tingling, numbness, burning sensations, and shooting pain that impact daily life. Cold laser therapy—also called low-level laser therapy (LLLT)—may help support nerve tissue repair and reduce pain signal transmission at the cellular level.
Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor)
Principal Chiropractor
B.Sc.(Chiro), M.Chiro.(Macq)

Cold Laser Treatment for Nerve Pain & Neuropathy in Adelaide
Cold laser therapy uses specific wavelengths of light (typically 600–1000 nm) to stimulate mitochondrial function in damaged nerve cells. This photobiostimulation triggers a cascade of cellular events:
- ATP Production: Laser light stimulates cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria, increasing ATP (cellular energy) production
- Reduced Inflammation: Photons suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines at the site of nerve injury or compression
- Enhanced Circulation: Improved blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to damaged nerve tissue
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Allow up to 30 minutes for a comprehensive initial consultation. Here is how it works.
You Tell Us
We listen carefully, ask the right questions, and build a clear picture of what has been going on with your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.
We Assess
Hands-on testing and biostructural analysis to identify what may be contributing to your nerve pain or discomfort.
We Explain
We walk you through our findings and your options in plain language. If imaging is recommended, we will explain why and discuss your options.
X-rays are only taken with your agreement, and where eligible, may be bulk billed.*
Care May Begin
Where clinically appropriate, care may begin on your first visit to help support relief.*
We offer both traditional hands-on chiropractic techniques and gentle, low-force approaches, tailored to your comfort. Care only proceeds with your consent.

Ready to Get Started?
Your first visit takes about 30 minutes. No referral needed, no lock-in plans. The decision is always yours.
Book Your First Visit*Subject to clinical assessment and suitability criteria. Bulk billing subject to eligibility criteria and clinical need.
How Our Fees Compare
Your first visit is over 40% below the South Australian average.
Source: Australian Chiropractors Association Consultation Fee Survey 2025 (SA data).
🚨 When to seek urgent care for neck pain
Most neck pain is mechanical in nature and responds well to conservative care. However, certain signs and symptoms associated with neck pain can indicate a serious underlying condition that requires urgent medical attention. Seek emergency care or call 000 immediately if you experience:
- Sudden severe neck pain with neurological symptoms: Sudden onset of severe neck pain or headache accompanied by dizziness, visual changes, difficulty speaking, facial drooping, or unsteadiness may suggest vertebral artery dissection. This is a medical emergency.
- Cervical myelopathy signs: Gait disturbance (unsteady walking), hand clumsiness (difficulty with buttons or fine motor tasks), bilateral upper limb symptoms (numbness or weakness in both arms), or changes in bladder or bowel function
- Progressive neurological weakness: Increasing weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms, hands, or legs that is getting worse rather than better
- Neck pain after significant trauma: Following a car accident, fall from height, or impact, particularly if you are unable to turn your head or have numbness or tingling
- Systemic warning signs: Unexplained weight loss, fever, severe night pain that wakes you from sleep, or a history of cancer, combined with new neck pain
If you are experiencing sudden severe neck pain with neurological symptoms such as dizziness, visual changes, or difficulty speaking, call 000 immediately. Do not wait for a routine appointment.
At Stapleton Chiropractic, screening for red flags is a routine part of every neck pain assessment. If we identify anything that requires urgent medical attention or further investigation, we will always let you know immediately and help direct you to the most appropriate care.
How Chiropractic May Help Nerve Pain & Neuropathy
Chiropractic care focuses on assessing and managing the mechanical function of your spine and musculoskeletal system. Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) will conduct a thorough assessment and discuss whether chiropractic care may be appropriate for your situation. Treatment approaches may include spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and tailored exercise recommendations. Individual responses vary, and the decision about care is always yours.
What does the evidence say?
Chow et al. (2009) — The Lancet
Landmark meta-analysis of 16 RCTs (820 patients) demonstrates significant pain reduction in patients with acute and chronic pain conditions. This foundational study forms the evidence base for LLLT's pain-relieving effects across multiple tissue types, including nerve injury.
Rochkind S (2009) — Photomedicine and Laser Surgery
Focused on peripheral nerve regeneration, this study shows LLLT may accelerate nerve fibre repair, improve action potential recovery, and restore sensory and motor function following nerve injury. Highly relevant to neuropathy and post-surgical nerve damage.
Alcântara CC et al. (2015) — Lasers in Medical Science
Examined LLLT efficacy in peripheral nerve injury recovery. Found that photobiomodulation may reduce inflammation, support axonal regeneration, and facilitate functional recovery in nerve-damaged tissue.
Barbosa RI et al. (2016) — Journal of Physical Therapy Science
Demonstrated LLLT effectiveness in carpal tunnel syndrome, a common entrapment neuropathy. Results showed pain reduction, improved grip strength, and reduced pressure at the carpal tunnel site with laser treatment.
Why Patients Choose Stapleton Chiropractic for Nerve Pain & Neuropathy
Over 50 Years of Trusted Care
Stapleton Chiropractic has been serving Adelaide since 1972. Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) continues this legacy with an evidence-based, patient-centred approach.
Transparent, Affordable Pricing
$99 initial consultation. Standard follow-up visits $120. Private fee service with itemised receipts provided.
Convenient Hours & Location
Open 7am–7pm weekdays and Saturday mornings (8am–12pm). Free on-site parking at 528 Marion Road, Plympton Park. No referral needed.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Your initial consultation is $69. No referral needed, no lock-in plans. We will listen, assess your condition, and explain your options in plain language.
Book Your First VisitPrefer to call? (08) 8297 5277
Your nerve pain & neuropathy questions answered
Common questions answered by Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor).
Peripheral neuropathy can result from diabetes, chemotherapy, infection, compression injuries, repetitive strain, or idiopathic causes. Adelaide Cold Laser clinicians can assess your specific presentation and recommend appropriate care.
Cold laser research suggests LLLT may help support nerve tissue repair and reduce pain, but it is not a cure. Results vary by condition severity, duration, and individual factors. A consultation with Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) can establish realistic expectations for your case.
Yes. The $99 initial consultation includes a complete evaluation of your nerve pain, physical assessment, and your first cold laser treatment session. Subsequent sessions are $120 each.
Some patients report immediate pain reduction. Nerve tissue healing typically requires consistent treatment over an appropriate timeframe. Research supports gradual, cumulative benefit.
Yes. Research (Barbosa RI et al., 2016) demonstrates LLLT effectiveness for carpal tunnel-related nerve pain and compression. Combining laser with ergonomic adjustment and physiotherapy optimises outcomes.
Cold laser is generally well-tolerated in diabetic neuropathy. However, diabetes requires careful monitoring. A consultation with Stapleton Chiropractic ensures your cold laser plan is coordinated with your medical management.
Typical courses range 6–an extended course, 2–a frequency based on your needs. Acute nerve pain may respond faster; chronic neuropathy typically requires longer courses. Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor) will outline a personalised plan during your initial $99 consultation.
Many patients with nerve pain also have spinal component involvement. Cold laser addresses both the compressed nerve and the inflammatory process. Combined chiropractic care (adjustments) and cold laser often produces better results than either alone.
Cold laser therapy is a private fee service and does not attract private health insurance rebates. Sessions are $99 (initial) and $120 (standard). We provide itemised receipts after every session.
Cold laser is non-invasive with minimal side effects. Rarely, mild temporary tenderness may occur. Contraindications include certain medications and active malignancy. A full health assessment during your consultation ensures safety.
Chiropractic adjustments restore spinal alignment and reduce nerve compression. Cold laser supports nerve tissue healing at the cellular level. Together, they address both the mechanical and metabolic aspects of nerve pain.
Chiropractic adjustments restore spinal alignment and reduce nerve compression. Cold laser supports nerve tissue healing at the cellular level. Together, they address both the mechanical and metabolic aspects of nerve pain.
Where are you right now?
Choose the path that best describes where you are today.
Ready to Get Started? We're Ready When You Are.
Choose a time that works for you. No referral needed.
Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor)
B.Sc.(Chiro), M.Chiro.(Macq)
$69
Initial Consultation
Up to 30 minutes, including full assessment
Book Your First VisitPrefer to call? (08) 8297 5277
Text: 0400 105 454 | Email: info@adelaidecoldlaser.com.au
You will receive a confirmation email with all details immediately after booking.
Last clinically reviewed: 22 March 2026 by Dr Sam Johnson (Chiropractor), B.Sc.(Chiro), M.Chiro.(Macq), AHPRA Registered.