Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as near-infrared light therapy (NILT), has become popular over the years for its wide range of health benefits.
But what is photobiomodulation exactly, and how can it support your well-being and your health?
PBM uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to promote cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and boost overall health.
It’s a noninvasive, painless therapy often used to enhance recovery, manage pain, and support neurological health.
Let’s explore what makes photobiomodulation a powerful addition to modern wellness treatments.
Photobiomodulation is a therapy that uses light in specific near-infrared wavelengths to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular activity.
According to the National Human Genome Research Institute, the light interacts with the mitochondria, the energy center found in every cell in your body.
Stimulating the mitochondria enhances energy production within these cells and promotes natural healing processes.
A typical session involves sitting or lying near a panel emitting near-infrared light. Depending on the treatment area, sessions may last between 10 and 30 minutes.
The therapy is painless, relaxing, and requires no downtime, making it a convenient option for busy lifestyles.
PBM works primarily at a cellular level by stimulating the mitochondria to enhance cell energy production.
The increase in energy speeds up cellular metabolism, essentially causing all the processes in the cell to run more quickly.
This results in increased blood flow to the area and reduced oxidative stress.
These combined effects help regulate normal cell function, which can help heal injuries, reduce inflammation, and even support cognitive health.
What is photobiomodulation good at treating? Well, PBM is extremely versatile. As it can be targeted at many different types of cells in the body, it carries a whole range of general wellness benefits or can be used to treat specific health conditions.
For example, athletes can use photobiomodulation to enhance recovery and reduce muscle soreness, whereas red light therapy targeted at the skin supports collagen production and improves skin appearance.
PBM can also be used to manage conditions like arthritis, neuropathy, and back pain.
Emerging research suggests PBM can benefit those with neurological conditions by improving cellular function in the brain.
The light can penetrate the brain and target specific deep brain tissues to regulate mitochondrial activity and enhance cognition.
Practitioners can target the light through the skull (transcranial PBM) or the nose (intranasal PBM) to better reach certain brain regions.
How is photobiomodulation different from red light therapy?
Red light therapy is often used as a catch-all term for PBM. However, while PBM uses near-infrared light, red light therapies use red light and are not backed by the same clinical-grade devices.
Is photobiomodulation safe?
Yes, PBM is non-invasive and has minimal side effects when used as directed. It’s a low-risk option for most individuals and is available through our Universal Wellness clinic.
How many sessions are needed to see results?
The number of sessions varies based on your goals and health condition. Some individuals notice improvements after a few treatments, while others benefit from consistent use over several weeks.
Photobiomodulation is a cutting-edge therapy with proven benefits for pain relief, recovery, and overall wellness. Whether you’re an athlete, managing a chronic condition, or seeking skin rejuvenation, PBM offers a natural, effective solution.
To learn more about photobiomodulation and our red light therapy services, contact Universal Neurological Care today or schedule your appointment here.
