Cold Laser Therapy for Nocturnal Enuresis (Bedwetting)

A young child peacefully sleeping on a patterned bed with hands tucked under the chin, symbolizing restful sleep and relief from bedwetting.

a young child peacefully sleeping on a patterned bed with hands tucked under the chin sybolizing restful sleep and relief from bedwetting

Nocturnal enuresis, commonly known as bedwetting, refers to involuntary urination during sleep, typically after the age when bladder control is expected. While it's more common in children, it can persist into adolescence or even adulthood, affecting self-esteem, sleep quality, and family life.

Though often considered a normal developmental stage, persistent enuresis may point to an underlying issue with bladder function or nervous system regulation. Many families seek alternative, non-invasive solutions when conventional treatments such as alarms or medication are ineffective or not preferred.

Signs and Symptoms of Nocturnal Enuresis

Involuntary urination during sleep (at least twice a week for three months in children over 5 years old)
Difficulty waking during the night to use the bathroom
History of delayed toilet training or daytime incontinence
Possible family history of enuresis
In some cases, signs of constipation or underlying bladder dysfunction

Cold Laser Therapy and Nocturnal Enuresis

Cold laser therapy—also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT)—is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to stimulate healing and improve cellular function. At Cold Laser Perth, located inside Lakeside Chiropractic, we use the MR5 ACTIV PRO LaserStim® device to deliver advanced cold laser therapy safely and precisely.

How Cold Laser Therapy May Help with Bedwetting

🔬 Neuromodulation and Nervous System Balance

Cold laser therapy may help regulate the nervous system by stimulating peripheral nerves and modulating nerve signals. It has been explored for its effects on the autonomic nervous system, which controls bladder function during sleep. A single-blind randomized controlled trial reported that LLLT may influence neurophysiological processes that support bladder control.

💡 Stimulation of Sacral Nerve Pathways

Laser therapy can be applied over the sacral region (S2–S4)—areas associated with bladder control. A study using laser at sacral points showed promising results in children with primary enuresis, reducing the frequency of bedwetting episodes.

🔄 Improved Sleep and Parasympathetic Tone

Research also have shown that LLLT may promote parasympathetic activity and reduce stress responses, which may indirectly support better bladder control during sleep. An overactive sympathetic nervous system can interfere with deep sleep and bladder relaxation, contributing to enuresis.

🌿 Non-Invasive and Gentle

Cold laser therapy is painless, has no downtime, and is well-tolerated by children and adults. It may be particularly helpful for those looking for a natural approach without medication or alarms.

How Chiropractic Care May Help

a chiropractor performs a gentle spinal adjustment on a young child lying face-down on a treatment table targetting the sacral area to support bladder control

Chiropractors assess and address potential spinal or nervous system dysfunctions that may contribute to nocturnal enuresis. The lower spine, particularly the sacral region (which influences bladder and bowel control), is of particular interest. Chiropractic care may involve:

Gentle spinal adjustments to the lumbar and sacral spine
Postural assessments and advice
Supporting pelvic floor function through movement education
Recommending exercises and behavioural strategies

Some case reports and observational studies suggest improvements in bedwetting following chiropractic treatment. However, results vary, and more robust clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy.

A Holistic Approach at Cold Laser Perth

At Cold Laser Perth, we use a tailored approach to each case of nocturnal enuresis. Depending on the assessment, we may combine:

Cold laser therapy over the sacral region
Gentle chiropractic care to support spinal and neurological function
Lifestyle, hydration, and sleep hygiene recommendations

While outcomes can vary, many patients find this multi-modal approach helps improve bladder control and sleep quality over time. If your child or teen is struggling with bedwetting and you're looking for natural, supportive solutions, contact Cold Laser Perth at Lakeside Chiropractic at 9300 0095 to see how we may be able to help or visit our website at www.coldlaserperth.com.au for more information.

📍 Serving the Joondalup & Northern Suburbs of Perth Lakeside Chiropractic is central to the northern suburbs of Perth, located in the City of Joondalup.

If you are in the surrounding suburbs such as Yanchep - 6035, Tapping - 6065, Carramar - 6031, Currambine - 6028, Wanneroo - 6065, Heathridge - 6027, Edgewater - 6027, Gnangara - 6077, Mullaloo - 6027, Padbury - 6025, Kingsley - 6026, Woodvale - 6026, Banksia Grove - 6031, or Duncraig - 6023, our team is here to assist you.

References:

1. Abstract from ICS (2023)
International Continence Society. (2023). Low reactive-level laser therapy (LLLT) for overactive bladder. Presented at the ICS Annual Meeting 2023. https://www.ics.org/2023/abstract/233

2. Karaman et al. (2011)
Karaman, M. I., Koca, O., Küçük, E. V., & Öztürk, M. (2011). Laser acupuncture therapy for primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis. Journal of Urology, 186(2), 648–651. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21420121/

3. Ali et al. (2022)
Ali, M. K., Saha, S., Milkova, N., Liu, L., Sharma, K., Huizinga, J. D., & Chen, J. H. (2022). Modulation of the autonomic nervous system by one session of spinal low-level laser therapy in patients with chronic colonic motility dysfunction. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 16, 947724. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9477245/

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual results may vary.

Dr. Kaitlyn (Yun Qi) Lau

I was first introduced to the world of Chiropractic in my teenage years, when I was given the opportunity to observe my cousin who is a chiropractor. During my brief time in observation, I witnessed the wonder of chiropractic and it was truly a miracle to me, seeing how it can change a person’s life. An old lady came in limping with chronic pain, after the treatment, she walked out perfectly fine with a big smile on her face. She held onto my hand to say thank you to me, even though I was just standing there doing nothing. It filled with me with such joy and fulfillment that in that instance, I made up my mind to become a chiropractor, no matter what it took. I graduated from Murdoch University with Distinction honours in 2016. During these 5 years at University, I participated in a 2 week placement in Northern India, called “Hands on India”, helping to raise over $80,000 to assist the communities living in poverty there, in return, I gained a wealth of knowledge and I was humbled by the amazing people there. In my role at Lakeside Chiropractic, I endeavor to provide excellent Chiropractic care and health advice to our community. I keep myself current with the best available research and professional development opportunities. I absolutely love being a Chiropractor and find that one of the most rewarding parts is being able to assist my patients in expressing their optimal health. My special interests are cervicogenic migraine, TMJ and sciatic pain. I especially love helping our moms-to-be achieve their best shape along the journey, this lead me to recently attended seminars for women’s fertility and pregnancy care essentials. Outside of the clinic, I enjoy my routine of going to yoga and pilates 3 times a week, as well as being a couch potato in front of TV with family. Born and raised in Malaysia, I am also fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin.