Understanding the effects of Photobiomodulation
Posted on February 5th, 2008 by Dr. Perry
Photobiomodulation
Photobiomodulation, also known as laser therapy and laser biostimulation, is a medical technique in which exposure to laser light enhances tissue growth and healing. The following information will help you understand the effects of Photobiomodulation on the body.
Physiological effects:
- Stabilization of cellular membrane of damaged cells
- Enhancement of ATP production and synthesis
- Decreased C-Reactive protein Neopterin
- Acceleration of leukocytic activity
- Enhanced lymphocyte response
- Reduction of Interleukin 1 (IL-1)
- Increased prostaglandin synthesis
- Enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels
- Stimulation of vasodilation
- Increased angiogenesis (new blood vessels)
- Temperature modulation
Decreased Pain and Nociception:
- Ion channel normalization (results in pain reduction)
- Increase in Beta Endorphins (decreased pain response)
- Increased nitric oxide production (helps oxygenation and synapse normalization)
- Decreased Bradykinin levels
- Blocked depolarization of C-fiber afferent nerves
- Normalization of resting action potentials (back to 70 mv range)
- Increase release of acetylcholine (normalization of nerve function)
- *Axonal sprouting and nerve cell regeneration* (assists in improving nerve function and reducing pain)
Tissue healing:
- Increased leukocyte activity (acceleration of tissue repair and decrease of pain)
- Increased macrophage activity (increased phagocytosis)
- Increased neovascularization (new vessel growth and increase oxygenation)
- Increased fibroblast production (speeds tissue repair)
- Keratinocyte proliferation (Decreased skin healing time and early ephitheliazation)
- Increased tensile strength (helps prevent re-injury)
Normal cells and tissues are not affected! 
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