BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- For millions of people, life is literally a pain in the neck. Studies estimate that between 10 and 24 percent of the population experiences chronic neck pain.

But a new study has found that low-level laser treatment may provide quick and lasting relief.

Researchers in Australia examined data from 16 clinical trials on laser therapy. Results were mixed for acute neck pain, but those with chronic neck pain experienced large improvements -- by an average of 20 points on a 100 point pain scale.

The therapy works by using laser light to stimulate cells. Doctors aren't quite sure how the laser works to reduce pain, but they have several plausible theories.

The laser may directly trigger healing in damaged tissue; it may reduce inflammation; or it may act as a kind of acupuncture by stimulating particular points on the neck.

Researchers said another benefit is the low odds of any side effects. However for many, the price of treatment may be prohibitive, as laser therapy often totals hundreds of dollars.