What is PBM?
- Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) previously known as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a laser or LED light therapy that improves tissue repair (skin wounds, muscle, tendon, bone, nerves), reduces inflammation and reduces pain wherever the beam is applied. Usually applied by a technician, treatments typically take 1 – 10 minutes and should be applied two or more times a week.
How it works?
- PBM works predominately on a protein in mitochondria (cytochrome c oxidase) to increase ATP and reduce oxidative stress. A cascade of mitochondrial and intracellular downstream effects lead to improved tissue repair and reduced inflammation.
How much is enough, how much is too much?
- There is a dose response: not enough power density and there is no effect, too much and there can be inhibitory effects which can slow down healing and lose the anti-inflammatory effects.
The analgesic mechanism
- This depends on an PBM overdose; Higher power density PBM >300mW/cm² reduces ATP production in C fibres and A delta fibres resulting in an immediate neural blockade lasting up to approx 24 hr
Benefits of Photobiomodulation Therapy
Heal Tissue
- PBM Therapy has been shown to stimulate cellular repair for better overall tissue recovery. This can also aid in the prevention of muscle degeneration through muscular dystrophy.
- Edema and congestion
- Wounds
Manage Pain
- PBM has been shown to lessen overall pain levels while stopping pain sooner
- Osteoarthritis/ hip dysplasia
- Joint Pain
- Tendinopathies
- Joint, ligament, and muscle sprains
- Neck and back pain
- Post surgical or rehabilitation pain
Improve Mood & Brain Health
- PBMT has been linked to increased cerebral blood flow and brain energy metabolism, ultimately leading to diminishing the symptoms of major neurological disorders.
- PBMT is currently treating degenerative myelopathy in dogs – a condition like MS in people where dogs slowly become paralyzed and require a cart. Studies have show significant improvement and some cure!
Postoperative patient; Skeeter receiving a laser therapy to his incision site after removing bladder stones. This therapy was also applied to the urethra to help with spasms to help prevent a blockage
Willoughby Veterinary Hospital is proud to announce that we have a new Class IV Companion Therapy Laser to offer as an alternative treatment option for a variety of medical conditions.
Lead technician Ashley performing the laser
