Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) for Tinnitus — Long-Lasting Everyday Home-Practiced Experiences

[lymebite]

I am worried those are not safe, but maybe they are; I don't know.

Are there any other reputable lasers, preferably models that have been used in clinical trials?

Tinnitool isn't selling the 5 mW version anymore.

I am not aware of any that are only 5 mW other than the new low-priced USB-powered ones.

To verify the specifications, you can buy equipment that tests the output of the low-priced USB laser devices (and any other laser devices). This is one place that sells laser power meters:

https://www.laserbeelpm.com/products-1.html

 

[StoneInFocus]

Low level laser therapy alleviates mechanical allodynia in a postoperative and neuropathic pain model and alters the levels of inflammatory factors in rats - PMC

This study aimed to investigate the analgesic and preventive effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the incisional pain model and spinal nerve ligation (SNL) model in rats and identify the possible mechanisms of action. Male Sprague-Dawley rats ...

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

 

[mike079]

I see on the Konftec site that there's a laser with infrared light, another with red light, and a package that includes both. Which one are people here using?

 

[mike079]

I decided to order the emLas-520AC and will see how it goes. I will update here if I have good results.

 

[HighleyTall]

Low level laser therapy alleviates mechanical allodynia in a postoperative and neuropathic pain model and alters the levels of inflammatory factors in rats - PMC

This study aimed to investigate the analgesic and preventive effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the incisional pain model and spinal nerve ligation (SNL) model in rats and identify the possible mechanisms of action. Male Sprague-Dawley rats ...

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

They were using WellsCare lasers.

Maybe I should strap an IASO Ultra in the neck. If it doesn't work, I saved $4000 compared to Lenire.

 

[SoundB0und]

I see on the Konftec site that there's a laser with infrared light, another with red light, and a package that includes both. Which one are people here using?

I have the emLas-520BCB. Actually, I own two of the same model. The first one began to break down after many years of use, so I purchased a replacement. The last "B" in the model name indicates it has a black controller, which, along with the mostly black wires and adapter, gives it a more professional look.

From what I recall, the 808nm wavelength has been more thoroughly studied for tinnitus than the 780nm. I haven't tried the 780nm myself, so I can't say for sure how it would work or how it might have worked for me. However, I would definitely recommend including the red, 660nm light.

Good luck!

 

[mike079]

I ordered the 780nm model with the 660nm red light included. Thanks for the tip! I just emailed them to ask if I can pay the extra $60 to switch to the 808nm version.

 

[K89]

@SoundB0und, you mentioned that you used the laser after experiencing a spike or new trauma, if I remember correctly. Did your tinnitus ever get significantly worse for a few days after using the laser, before eventually improving?

I've been doing clinic sessions with Lumomed, and I have to say my ringing has never been worse. They say this isn't necessarily a bad reaction, but it's hard to tell, as I've been dealing with several days of extremely intense ringing—enough to keep me from sleeping. I'm really not sure what to make of it.

I'm hoping that after a break, things will level out.

 

[SoundB0und]

Did your tinnitus ever get significantly worse for a few days after using the laser, before eventually improving?

Yes. Looking back, it's hard to say exactly how much it spiked. I think I partially attributed my poor sleep to the hot summer nights around the time I started the laser therapy.

When I first experienced a major tinnitus spike, I couldn't sleep at all and was up for three nights straight, relying on a lot of sleep meds. So, this wasn't an entirely new experience for me.

Being exactly three months in and having been relatively careful with sound exposure might have contributed to the spike being milder. It's possible that my tinnitus was already beginning to settle naturally, and even though I triggered a temporary spike with the laser, that timing might have acted as a buffer.

In all honesty, I can't be certain, as it was a while ago. At that point, quitting the laser wasn't really an option in my mind; I was more afraid it wouldn't work, which would have meant losing my last hope. It was a do or die situation.

I protected my hearing carefully, which seemed necessary for healing. I wasn't in complete silence but stayed indoors almost 24/7, taking no risks unless absolutely necessary. Fortunately, I didn't have many real-life responsibilities at the time.

It didn't improve in just a few days, though; it took weeks or even a month, and significant improvements took several months. When I realized I could tolerate it and that it wouldn't be unbearable, I just kept going and didn't look back.

Doesn't Lumomed offer both clinical laser therapy and home lasers? You're referring to the home laser, right? I've never tried a clinical laser. From what I've read on the forum, and just logically, it seems that the initial spike from clinical lasers is generally much more intense.

Good luck.

 

[mike079]

I received the 606nm and 808nm lasers today and tested each for 10 minutes. I plan to do this for a few days, then take a break before following the full protocol from the website.

How much time are people here using per session?

 

[Dizzyhead888]

I am experiencing serious brain fog after just a few minutes of LLLT (5 mW, 650 nm).

I am also noticing a 10% worsening in my tinnitus, though it generally settles back to baseline over time.

Does anyone have any insights into this?

 

[Nick47]

I am experiencing serious brain fog after just a few minutes of LLLT (5 mW, 650 nm).

I am also noticing a 10% worsening in my tinnitus, though it generally settles back to baseline over time.

Does anyone have any insights into this?

@Dizzyhead888, which study inspired you to try this treatment? The ones I have read are poorly designed, highly biased, and have only short-term follow-ups. This treatment has been around for years, yet it seems to provide little benefit for most people.

 

[Dizzyhead888]

@Dizzyhead888, which study inspired you to try this treatment? The ones I have read are poorly designed, highly biased, and have only short-term follow-ups. This treatment has been around for years, yet it seems to provide little benefit for most people.

In terms of papers and in conclusion, the research on LLLT for tinnitus has produced mixed results. Some studies show positive outcomes, while others report no improvement. In all the papers I've reviewed, the power used was 5mW, which is considered very low.

Beyond the research, there are numerous anecdotes about using higher power levels, such as 50mW. For example, devices like those from Konftec and the experiences shared by individuals like @SoundB0und and Dr. Wilden are often mentioned. I've come across these accounts on forums and in Facebook groups.

LLLT remains an inconclusive treatment, but like most tinnitus therapies, you won't know if it works for you unless you try. It is, however, proven effective for various other conditions and has a strong safety profile.

What surprises me is that I'm experiencing brain fog from just 5mW! I haven't seen anyone else report this side effect in their experiences or in any of the studies.

This is quite frustrating, as I had planned to try this treatment gradually over an extended period.

 

[artlite]

Do you guys know where I could buy a used laser so I don't need to pay as much?

 

[lymebite]

Do you guys know where I could buy a used laser so I don't need to pay as much?

@DebInAustralia mentioned a while ago that she was selling one. I'm not sure if it's still available, but if it is, it might be a good option.

 

[Nick47]

Do you guys know where I could buy a used laser so I don't need to pay as much?

@artlite, the chance of it being effective is very very small. Some people felt worse, but in all honesty they do nothing for most people. Money wasted that could better be used?

 

[HighleyTall]

As usual, @Nick47 is correct.

 

[mike079]

For those who have the laser and are using it, could you share your protocol?

The image below is from the Konftec website. I've started with 15 minutes of red light and 15 minutes of infrared light per day for 10 days. I'm curious to know what others are doing.

 

[lymebite]

Do you guys know where I could buy a used laser so I don't need to pay as much?

There is a used Konftec posted for sale on eBay right now.

 

[ccpjc]

I'm currently in the acute phase after suffering acoustic trauma nearly two weeks ago. I've seen three doctors and an audiologist, all of whom said there's nothing they can do and that my hearing results are fine for my age. However, I'm experiencing ear pain, loud tinnitus, and, more recently, the onset of vertigo. You can read more about my story under my profile if you're curious.

Is it possible that LLLT could help? Unfortunately, I don't have a copy of my audiology report, so I'm not sure if they tested beyond 8 kHz.

I'm considering the Dr. Wilden device since it seems easier to use and more accurate, but it's very expensive. Because of this, I'm leaning toward Konftec instead.

For what it's worth, I believe my tinnitus is somewhere around 12–13 kHz. It's challenging to pinpoint the exact frequency because when I play matching sounds, the tinnitus stops for a few seconds.

 

[Nick47]

it possible that LLLT could help? Unfortunately, I don't have a copy of my audiology report, so I'm not sure if they tested beyond 8 kHz.

It's extremely unlikely that it will help. The studies conducted so far have been of low quality and carry a high risk of bias. If it were likely to be effective, it would already be widely available.

 

[ccpjc]

It's extremely unlikely that it will help. The studies conducted so far have been of low quality and carry a high risk of bias. If it were likely to be effective, it would already be widely available.

But is there a chance? I've read about the success stories from people it has worked for. My tinnitus is truly life-altering, and I'm carrying a heavy load of guilt, regret, depression, and an inability to sleep.

Yesterday, I had to wear noise-canceling earbuds all day because my neighbors were blasting music. Now, my tinnitus is extremely loud. Even the tonal sounds that usually help aren't providing much relief. This is the worst it's been since I developed this condition.

 

[Nick47]

But is there a chance?

There's always a chance, however small, that a rocket could hit your house tonight. Similarly, the few success stories shared here are, in my opinion, likely due to a placebo effect or simply the passage of time.

That said, there are a couple of medication combinations you might want to explore. Check out the NeuroMed thread and Dr. Dirk De Ridder's protocol. Additionally, some long-term members here follow the Abraham Shulman protocol. Take a look at the relevant threads and feel free to ask questions if you need clarification.

I understand how difficult this can be.

 

[ccpjc]

There's always a chance, however small, that a rocket could hit your house tonight. Similarly, the few success stories shared here are, in my opinion, likely due to a placebo effect or simply the passage of time.

That said, there are a couple of medication combinations you might want to explore. Check out the NeuroMed thread and Dr. Dirk De Ridder's protocol. Additionally, some long-term members here follow the Abraham Shulman protocol. Take a look at the relevant threads and feel free to ask questions if you need clarification.

I understand how difficult this can be.

I'm planning to talk to my doctor about several potential medications that people on this forum have reported success with, including LDN.

However, she won't prescribe benzodiazepines, so the Abraham Shulman protocol isn't an option for me. I do have a prescription for Ativan, but it's for 10 tablets of 1 mg each, and I use them very sparingly—this amount lasts me over a year.