When you visit your local wellness Spa or Therapist office, you will probably find different types of therapies offered to help treat different conditions. A new treatment that is being adopted by numerous therapy centers includes photobiomodulation therapy. This is a unique form of therapy that stimulates and helps the brain to repair itself on a cellular level.

So, What Is Photobiomodulation (PBM) Therapy?

When it comes to non-invasive procedures, PBM is one of them. In simple terms, it can be defined as a non-thermal technique that generates energy to stimulate the cells so that they can go through self-repair. Energy is released through the use of near-infrared light (NIR). Photobiomodulation is also referred to as low-level light therapy. It common for the first-time patient who tries out PBM will experience tiredness, temporary headache, and dry throat. Despite this, numerous patients will report the enhancement of energy levels.

Devices Used In Photobiomodulation Therapy

PBM is a form of therapy that utilizes different forms of non-ionizing types of lights, including LEDs, LASERS, and broadband light. Devices used in PBM have proven to be safe and ideal in the temporary relief of pain.

What does PBM treat?

The stimulation of brain cells can be used to treat numerous conditions. There are various applications of PBM which are all being tested on clinical levels. The most common application of this therapy is in pain and inflammation relief and the treatment of sports injuries. It has also been used in the stimulation of hair growth and decrease of fat deposits.

Pain Relief - Before receiving photobiomodulation therapy treatment, a provider must confirm the pain us caused by neuromusculoskeletal factors. The therapy will be done under numerous sessions for successful results. Research has shown that it can take from 8 to 30 sessions of treatments to be fully effective. PBM is not ideal for pregnant women who are experiencing pain and inflammation.

Sports Injuries - In the athletic world, photobiomodulation therapy has been adopted in pain management. Incorporating PBM in athletes' treatment plants has proven to support the healing process. Some of the common sports injuries that can be treated include muscular sprains, hamstring pulls, and plantar fasciitis.

Photobiomodulation has also proven to be effective in cognitive enhancement, stroke treatment, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, Alzheimer's disease, and much more.

What to Expect

If you are enrolled in a PBM session, you will find that it is not a complicated process. On a normal basis, a session will last no more than 20 minutes. The session may occur 5 times a week for 2 weeks. In some cases, the therapy frequency will depend on the illness or condition being treated. Other treatments may be incorporated during your session to ensure successful results.

Conclusion

If you are trying out photobiomodulation for the first time, it is essential that you fully understand what you are getting yourself in. You must visit a professional and get the necessary guidance to find out whether this is the best treatment for your situation.