Photobiomodulation
(PBM) refers to the application of non-thermal laser or light-emitting diode
light sources to stimulate cellular responses that resolve damage or disease.
This branch of light therapy utilizes specific wavelengths, doses, and
treatment protocols to selectively trigger therapeutic cellular responses like
increased ATP production and stimulation of repair pathways.
History of Photobiomodulation Research
The discovery of PBM dates back to the late 1960s when scientists first
observed that low-level lasers could accelerate wound healing in mice. However,
it was not until the early 1980s that research into the underlying cellular
effects began in earnest. Studies demonstrated light could increase cell
metabolism and modulate cellular signaling to alter gene expression and trigger
the synthesis of collagen and other proteins. By the 1990s, evidence showed
light therapy improved recovery from neuropathies, musculoskeletal injuries,
and skin conditions. This research established the foundation for exploring
light's clinical applications across various medical fields.
Cellular Mechanisms of Photobiomodulation
At the cellular level, PBM appears to work through photoacceptor molecules in
the cell's mitochondria called cytochromes. When these molecules absorb photons
of the correct wavelength, it increases their electron affinity and raises
their energy state. This provides an additional energy boost to help accelerate
chemical reactions in the electron transport chain, increasing overall ATP
production within the mitochondria. Greater ATP levels stimulate mitochondrial
biogenesis and enhance cellular function, metabolism, and repair potential.
PBM also activates signaling pathways related to NO production and reactive
oxygen species generation. Low levels of ROS serve as molecular signaling
molecules that can trigger stress response genes and promote anti-inflammatory
pathways. NO is a key vasodilator and also plays a role in regulating
mitochondrial activity. By initiating NO production while limiting oxidative
damage through ROS scavenging, PBM provides an optimal environment for healing
on both a cellular and systemic level.
Conditions Treated with Photobiomodulation
Among the conditions well-documented to respond favorably to PBM include:
- Musculoskeletal injuries: Acute and chronic strains, sprains, tendinopathies,
and other overuse injuries commonly see reduced pain and swelling along with
accelerated recovery times with light therapy. Multiple studies have shown PBM
works for tendinosis, bursitis, and cartilage damage.
- Neuropathies: Both diabetic and chemotherapy-induced neuropathies often
improve significantly with PBM use. Studies show enhanced nerve conduction and
reduced symptoms like numbness, pain, and weakness.
- Skin wounds: PBM significantly boosts wound healing rates by increasing
collagen deposition, angiogenesis, fibroblast proliferation, and wound
contraction. This includes diabetic ulcers, post-surgical incisions, and burns.
- Dental/oral issues: Tooth pain, oral mucositis, perimplantitis,
periodontitis, and other dental conditions report good responses including
reduced infection risk and restoration of soft tissue integrity with light
therapy.
- Muscle recovery: Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) from intense exercise
shows diminished symptoms like swelling, tenderness, and loss of strength after
light therapy sessions. This accelerates recovery and return to normal activity
levels.
Treatment Protocols and Parameters
A number of specific factors are considered when designing PBM treatment
protocols:
- Wavelength: Most research utilizes red and near-infrared light in the
600-1000 nm range, which penetrate tissue deeply and provide the optimal
stimulation based on accepted photochemistry principles.
- Irradiance/Fluence: Low-level protocols use 1-4 J/cm2 of energy delivered at
a power density of 30-90 mW/cm2 over the treatment area. Higher doses show
diminished benefits or potentially harmful effects.
- Pulse structures: Continuous wave or pulsed protocols in the kHz-MHz range
are utilized depending on the condition and desired response. Continuous
treatments may be more suitable for acute applications.
- Treatment duration: Times can range 5-25 minutes per session depending on the
size of the treatment area and desired clinical endpoint, with multiple
sessions spaced 1-3 days apart in a treatment plan.
- Equipment: Class IIIb or Class IV lasers and super pulsed laser/LED devices
are typical for medical applications of PBM involving larger surface areas
beyond hair/nail growth applications. Portable handheld units enable home and
clinical use.
- Target tissues: Treatment sites depend on condition but commonly include
muscles, nerves, wounds, and soft tissues affected by injury or dysfunction.
Joints may also receive light stimulation to modulate inflammatory responses.
With standardized protocols accounting for these parameters, PBM shows great
potential as a non-invasive therapeutic modality to resolve various acute and
chronic conditions through photoenergetic and photobiological responses at the
cellular level. Its wide range of applications, low risk profile, and evidence
of effectiveness have made light therapy an area of growing interest within
both conventional and alternative healthcare models.
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About Author:
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four
years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various
industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and
materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)
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