Photobiomotulaton Therapy

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light, typically in the red to near-infrared spectrum, to stimulate cellular processes. The therapy works by enhancing mitochondrial function, which increases ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and alleviating pain.

The Essence of Light

It is a form of electromagnetic radiation that typically propagates in the form of light waves. It exhibits both wave-like and particle-like properties, characterized by features such as wavelength and frequency.

Photothermal Function of Light

The photothermy of light refers to the use of light energy to generate heat in biological tissues.
• This process involves the absorption of specific wavelengths of light (often infrared or near-infrared) by the skin and underlying tissues.
• When light is absorbed by tissues, it excites molecules, leading to increased molecular motion and, consequently, heat generation.

Laser Therapy

It is the application of a very narrow spectral width of light over injuries or lesions to stimulate healing within those tissues.
The biological effects of laser therapy are related to the wavelengths of light emitted by the laser. Different wavelengths target different tissues e.g. blood, melanin, water, etc.. These targets are known as Chromophores.

Photochemical Action

• Visible (red) light and Near Infrared (NIR) are absorbed within the mitochondria and the cell membrane.
• This produces higher ATP levels and boosts DNA production, leading to an increase in cellular health and energy.

When light is absorbed, it delivers energy to tissue, and the tissue's reaction depends on the intensity and exposure time of the light.

Each type of tissue has its specific absorption characteristics depending on its specific components (i.e., skin is composed of cells, hair follicles, pigment, blood vessels, sweat glands, etc.)

The main absorbing components, or Chromophores, of tissue are:

• Hemoglobin in blood
• Melanin in skin, hair, moles, etc.
• Water (present in all biologic tissue)
• Protein or “Scatter" (covalent bonds present in tissue)

Biological Effects of Laser Therapy

• Anti-Inflammation
• Anti-Pain (Analgesic)
• Accelerated Tissue Repair and Cell Growth
• Improved Vascular Activity
• Increased Metabolic Activity
• Trigger Points and Acupuncture Points
• Reduced Fibrous Tissue Formation
• Improved Nerve Function
• Immunoregulation
• Faster Wound Healing

Continuous Wave and Pulsing

Continuous Wave (CW and Modulated or "Pulsed")
• Power output (watts) is constant over time
• Average power is about the same level or lower than peak
• Can be chopped, modulated, turned on-off to simulate pulses
• Peak power is about the same as maximum average power

Pulsed Wave (Pulsed and Superpulsed)
• Power output is emitted in impulses over time at regular intervals (frequency)
• High peak power output – “Flash Bulb”
• Pulsed in nanoseconds (10-9 or billionths of a second)
• Peak power level (50-250W); much higher than average power