Inhibition of primary nociceptors by optogenetic approaches has been achieved in transgenic mice, but the genetic manipulation involved has limited its translational potential. A new study used a type of adeno-associated virus administered into the sciatic nerve in mice to express inhibitory opsins in primary nociceptors. Expression of the opsin in the dermal free nerve endings of the sciatic nerve in the hindpaw enabled the light stimulus to be applied transdermally. Light-stimulation of the opsin reduced both mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in the mice. Application of such non-invasive approaches in humans could lead to a novel approach to control intractable neuropathic pain.