High-power Laser Therapy for Notalgia Paresthetica.
40 participantsStarted 2026-01-27
Plain-language summary
A non-invasive modality for the management of neuromusculoskeletal pain conditions that has emerged as a compelling option is high-power laser therapy (HPLT). The pathophysiology of notalgia paresthetica (NP) is treated uniquely by HPLT, which targets both the presumed muscular component of nerve entrapment and the resultant neuropathic symptoms. The main goal of this study, which is randomised, controlled and blinded by assessors, is to find out how well High-Power Laser Therapy (HPLT) works as an extra treatment to standard care in reducing itching, pain and improving quality of life for patients with long-term nerve pain.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 65 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Adults aged 18-75 years
* Clinical diagnosis of unilateral Notalgia Paresthetica for at least 3 months
* Presence of characteristic symptoms (pruritus, paresthesia, and/or burning pain) in the typical T2-T6 dermatomal distribution
* A minimum score of 4 on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for pruritus intensity
* Presence of hyperpigmentation in the affected area
Exclusion Criteria:
* \- Secondary causes of symptoms (e.g., spinal pathology, herpes zoster, renal failure)
* Previous spinal surgery in the thoracic region
* Coagulopathy or use of anticoagulant medication
* Skin diseases or infections in the treatment area
* Pregnancy or lactation
* Cognitive impairment affecting ability to complete questionnaires
* Previous treatment with botulinum toxin in the affected area within 6 months
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.