Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive, non-thermal therapy that uses light of specific wavelengths to stimulate cellular function and promote healing in the body. The therapy typically uses red or near-infrared light, which has been shown to penetrate deep into the skin and interact with cellular components, such as the mitochondria, to produce various biological effects.
In simple terms, it’s kind of like giving your cells a special type of light bath that helps them function better and heal faster. It’s a safe, non-invasive therapy that has shown promise in treating a variety of conditions, including pain and inflammation.
The therapy is based on the idea that certain wavelengths of light can penetrate the skin and interact with cellular components, such as the mitochondria, to produce various biological effects. This interaction can result in the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), a molecule that provides energy for cellular processes, and the release of nitric oxide, which can improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.
In terms of pain, PBM has been shown to reduce both acute and chronic pain in various conditions. It has been used to treat musculoskeletal pain, including neck pain, low back pain, and osteoarthritis, as well as neuropathic pain, such as that caused by diabetic neuropathy. PBM has also been shown to reduce pain associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia and temporomandibular joint disorders.
In terms of inflammation, PBM has been shown to reduce both acute and chronic inflammation in various conditions. It has been used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, as well as inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease. PBM has also been shown to reduce inflammation in the brain and to promote the survival of neurons, which may be useful in the treatment of neurological disorders.