Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN): How Red Light Therapy Can Help

Cancer treatment saves lives, but for many patients, chemotherapy can leave lasting side effects. One of the most common is Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy, or CIPN. At RegenClinic, we work with patients every day who are navigating these challenges, and we’re proud to offer gentle, science-backed therapies to help improve comfort and quality of life.

What is CIPN?

CIPN is nerve damage caused by certain chemotherapy drugs. It often shows up in the hands and feet with tingling, numbness, burning, or sharp “pins-and-needles” sensations. Some patients also experience weakness, balance problems, or difficulty with fine motor skills, making everyday activities harder.

Up to half of people treated with specific chemo agents, like platinum-based drugs, taxanes, or vinca alkaloids, will develop CIPN. For some, symptoms improve after treatment ends. For others, they can last months—or even years—affecting independence and daily well-being.

Why it Matters

CIPN isn’t just uncomfortable. It can interfere with walking, buttoning clothes, typing, or cooking. In severe cases, symptoms may force changes to chemotherapy schedules, which can impact cancer treatment itself. While medications such as duloxetine may help with pain, most people need a combination of approaches, including physical therapy, exercise, and complementary treatments, to regain confidence and function.

How Red Light Therapy Helps

Red light therapy, also called photobiomodulation (PBM), uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support cellular repair and calm inflammation. The light is absorbed by mitochondria, the “powerhouses” of cells, which helps restore energy production and reduce oxidative stress.

For people with CIPN, Red Light Therapy can ease nerve pain, reduce tingling and numbness, and improve overall function. Treatments are safe, non-invasive, and comfortable—most patients describe them as relaxing sessions with no side effects.

What the Research Shows

Recent studies are building a strong case for Red Light Therapy in preventing and treating CIPN:

• In the NEUROLASER randomized controlled trial, patients receiving Red Light Therapy during chemotherapy developed fewer and less severe symptoms compared to those receiving placebo.
• A 2022 study evaluating Red Light Therapy for established CIPN showed reductions in neuropathy scores and meaningful improvements in quality of life.
• Systematic reviews have concluded Red Light Therapy is safe when delivered with proper equipment and protocols, with very few adverse effects reported.

How We Use RLT at RegenClinic

At RegenClinic, we follow THOR Laser protocols used in hospitals and research centers worldwide. Our treatments focus light on:

• Areas of neuropathic pain in the hands and feet
• Nerve root exits along the spine related to those limbs
• Lymphatic and supportive regions to reduce inflammation

Sessions are short, comfortable, and scheduled more frequently at the beginning, tapering as symptoms improve. We can start during treatment or after chemotherapy has ended, depending on your needs.

A Gentle, Supportive Option

Red Light Therapy is not a replacement for your oncology care. It’s a complementary therapy designed to ease side effects, support nerve recovery, and help restore confidence in everyday life. Many of our patients tell us they feel more in control of their healing journey after adding Red Light Therapy to their care plan.

If you or a loved one is experiencing CIPN, we invite you to learn more about how RegenClinic can help.

Call or text us at 250-813-2121
Email: sasha@regenclinic.ca