PBM and Cancer - What is the Truth?
Results: Although there are a few articles suggesting that PBM therapy can be detrimental in animal models of tumors, there are also many articles that suggest the opposite and that light can directly damage the tumor, can potentiate other cancer therapies, and can stimulate the host immune system. Moreover, there are two clinical trials showing increased survival in cancer patients who received PBM therapy.
Conclusions: PBM therapy may have benefits in cancer patients and should be further investigated.
The effect of photobiomodulation on chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: A randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial
Background: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common side effect of cancer therapy with few efficacious treatments.
Conclusion and relevance: Among patients with CIPN, PBM produced significant reduction in neuropathy symptoms.
“Therapy lasers have been an exciting addition to the health care treatment arsenal. The development of Class IV therapy lasers represents the next generation of light therapy. By maximizing the primary effects, Class IV therapy lasers are able to induce extremely rapid clinical responses. Progressive health care providers wanting to offer the latest technology to their clientele should investigate Class IV therapy lasers.”
— Dr. Julian Vickers (deceased)
Note from Dr. Phil
Dr. Julian was taken away from us too soon. He passed away in 2009, shortly after he and I authored this article on Class 4 Laser Therapy. He was a good man. I think of him often, and I look forward to seeing him again on the other side.