The Benefits of Whole Body Photobiomodulation: A Guide for Patients
Whole-body photobiomodulation, referred to as ‘red light therapy’ (RLT) by some, is gaining attention as a non-invasive and natural treatment for a wide range of health conditions. This therapy uses low-level light to stimulate cellular function, offering therapeutic benefits for pain, skin issues, inflammation, and more. While localized treatment with light is more common, whole-body photobiomodulation (PBM) extends the benefits of red, infrared and sometimes ultraviolet light therapy to the entire body, promising overall health improvements.
This article will explore the benefits of whole-body PBM, how it works, and what patients should consider before undergoing this innovative therapy.
What is Whole Body Photobiomodulation?
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a therapy that uses therapeutic lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to emit wavelengths of red and near-infrared (NIR) light. As mentioned, some whole-body PBM devices also use ultraviolet wavelengths. These wavelengths penetrate the skin, stimulating cellular activity and promoting healing processes at a molecular level.
Whole-body PBM involves applying these wavelengths to the entire body using LEDs, not just specific areas. By contrast, class 4 therapeutic laser treatments are focused treatments for specific injuries, conditions or areas of pain using a handheld therapeutic laser device. A skilled nurse or technician shines the therapeutic laser on the affected tissues. But in whole-body PBM, the patient simply lies in a bed with panels of LEDs above and below.
When light enters the skin, it interacts with the mitochondria—often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell—stimulating them to produce more energy (ATP). This increase in energy supports cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and enhances tissue regeneration.
Whole-body PBM is typically administered in full-body panels or beds that deliver light to large areas of the body simultaneously. This can be more efficient for addressing systemic conditions or achieving generalized wellness effects.
How Does Whole-Body PBM Work?
Red and near-infrared light used in PBM falls within a range of wavelengths from about 600 to 1000 nanometers. These wavelengths penetrate different tissue depths, allowing them to target various structures, from the surface of the skin to deeper muscles and joints. Red light, usually between 600 and 700 nm, affects the skin and superficial tissues, while NIR light, between 800 and 1000 nm, reaches deeper tissues such as muscles, joints, and even some organs. Ultraviolet light, in the 450nm range, is absorbed very superficially and can help to improve the appearance of the skin.
The basic mechanism involves light absorption by chromophores, which are molecules in the mitochondria. When these molecules absorb light energy, they increase the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell. More ATP means cells can function more efficiently, leading to faster repair and regeneration. Additionally, PBM helps modulate oxidative stress, improve blood flow, and reduce inflammation, all of which contribute to a range of health benefits.
Benefits of Whole Body Photobiomodulation
Pain Relief
One of the most well-established benefits of PBM is its ability to relieve pain. Whether the pain is acute, like that from an injury, or chronic, such as arthritis or fibromyalgia, whole-body PBM can provide significant relief.
By improving blood flow and reducing inflammation, PBM helps decrease the sensation of pain while promoting healing in damaged tissues. Many patients report relief from musculoskeletal pain, joint stiffness, and even nerve pain after consistent use of whole-body PBM. This makes it an excellent alternative or complement to other pain-relieving treatments, including medications and physical therapy.
Reduction of Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to ongoing pain and illness. Whole-body PBM has been shown to modulate inflammatory pathways, helping reduce both acute and chronic inflammation.
In conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and autoimmune diseases, systemic inflammation plays a significant role. Whole-body PBM therapy can be particularly effective because it treats the entire body, targeting inflammation at multiple sites.
Improved Muscle Recovery and Performance
For athletes or individuals involved in regular physical activity, whole-body PBM can aid in muscle recovery. It works by stimulating blood flow and reducing muscle fatigue, enabling faster repair of damaged muscle fibers. This means less post-exercise soreness and quicker recovery times.
In fact, some studies suggest that PBM may also enhance muscle performance by improving mitochondrial function, increasing ATP production, and boosting overall energy levels. Athletes and those engaged in strength training may notice improved endurance and strength after regular sessions.
Enhanced Skin Health
Red light therapy is commonly used to treat various skin conditions, and whole-body PBM extends these benefits to the entire surface of the skin. By stimulating collagen production and improving cellular regeneration, PBM can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars.
Moreover, it can help with skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne by reducing inflammation and promoting faster healing. As a bonus, PBM improves skin tone and texture, giving the skin a more youthful, radiant appearance.
Improved Sleep and Mood
Sleep disorders and mood issues like anxiety and depression can also benefit from whole-body PBM. Exposure to red and near-infrared light has been shown to regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, improving sleep quality and duration. For individuals who suffer from insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns, regular sessions of whole-body therapy can help reset the body’s internal clock.
Additionally, PBM may increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood. This makes it a promising option for individuals suffering from mood disorders like depression or anxiety.
Support for Cognitive Health
Whole-body PBM has shown promise in supporting cognitive health and brain function. Studies indicate that near-infrared light can penetrate the skull and stimulate the brain, promoting neurogenesis (the formation of new neurons) and reducing neuroinflammation.
This could be particularly beneficial for individuals with neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, PBM has been studied for its effects on cognitive performance, including memory and focus, making it a potential therapy for people seeking to improve mental clarity.
Boosted Immune Function
This therapy can also enhance immune function by improving the efficiency of white blood cells and reducing oxidative stress. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with autoimmune conditions, chronic infections, or compromised immune systems.
Whole-body PBM supports the body’s defense mechanisms by promoting overall cellular health and reducing systemic inflammation. Patients report fewer illnesses and quicker recoveries from infections when incorporating regular red light therapy sessions into their health routine.
Weight Loss and Metabolic Health
There is emerging evidence that whole-body PBM can aid in weight loss and improve metabolic health. By stimulating the mitochondria and enhancing ATP production, PBM helps cells use energy more efficiently. Some studies suggest that it can help reduce fat cells, leading to weight loss.
Additionally, PBM may improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation, making it a promising therapy for individuals with metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes.
Reduction of Arthritis Symptoms
Patients suffering from arthritis often experience joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility due to chronic inflammation. Whole-body PBM has been shown to alleviate these symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving joint mobility. The therapy targets not only the joints but also the surrounding tissues, providing relief from arthritis-related discomfort. PBM is an excellent alternative for those seeking non-invasive treatment options for arthritis.
Safety and Side Effects of Whole-Body PBM
One of the major benefits of whole-body PBM is its safety profile. This therapy is non-invasive, drug-free, and has very few side effects. Unlike some medical treatments that come with risks of significant side effects or downtime, PBM is considered safe for most individuals when used appropriately.
The most common side effect reported is mild skin irritation or redness, which usually subsides quickly after the session. To ensure safety, it's important to follow the guidelines provided by your healthcare provider or the technician administering the therapy. Overexposure to the light could lead to minor burns, though this is rare when proper protocols are followed.
Patients who are pregnant, have a history of skin cancer, or are taking certain photosensitive medications should consult with their doctor before beginning this therapy.
What to Expect During a Whole-Body PBM Session
A whole-body PBM session is a simple, pain-free experience. During the session, you will lie down in a therapy bed. Treatments work best when the light is delivered directly to the skin, so patients will disrobe to their level of comfort. The office staff will take great care to ensure privacy. The therapy session typically lasts 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the treatment plan and the specific condition being addressed.
For the best results, multiple sessions are usually recommended. Depending on the condition, you might undergo treatment a few times a week or several times a month. The therapy is generally cumulative, meaning that the more sessions you do, the better the results.
Conclusion: Is Whole-Body PBM Right for You?
Whole-body photobiomodulation offers a wide range of health benefits, from pain relief and improved muscle recovery to enhanced skin health and cognitive function. Whether you are seeking relief from a chronic condition or looking for a natural way to enhance overall wellness, red light therapy is a safe and non-invasive option with a growing body of research to support its effectiveness.
Before beginning therapy, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if PBM is right for you, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. With proper use and a treatment plan tailored to your needs, whole-body PBM could be a game-changer in your health and wellness journey.
One example of a whole-body PBM device, the Vita Bed.
