The Therapeutic Effects of Red and Near-Infrared Light
Red light and near-infrared irradiation produce measurable changes locally in cells/tissues/organs. This form of light therapy is called photobiomodulation (PBM).
Animal studies show that photobiomodulation therapy could be beneficial for over 100 different diseases. Evidence from human studies is also emerging in a fast pace.
Over 3800 photobiomodulation papers have been published in PubMed-indexed journals, over 120 of which have a good impact factor (> 3.0). Research has been conducted in at least 71 different countries.
The mechanistic basis for photobiomodulation therapy of neuropathic pain by near infrared laser light.
Conclusion: These in vitro and in vivo studies indicate that treatment with an irradiance/fluence rate at 270 mW/cm2 or higher at the level of the nerve can rapidly block pain transmission. A combination therapy is proposed to treat neuropathic pain with initial high irradiance/fluence rates for fast pain relief, followed by low irradiance/fluence rates for prolonged pain relief by altering chronic inflammation.
“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.