Photobiomodulation Therapy in Musculoskeletal Disorders: Current Evidence and Clinical Applications (2024)
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This review examined the role of photobiomodulation therapy (PBM)/low-level laser therapy in treating musculoskeletal disorders, including conditions involving muscles, joints, tendons, and soft tissues.
Key findings:
- Pain reduction: PBM showed beneficial effects in reducing acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Therapy may decrease inflammatory markers and reduce tissue swelling.
- Improved tissue repair: PBM appears to support healing of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues by enhancing cellular activity.
- Functional recovery: Some studies reported improved mobility, strength, and rehabilitation outcomes after injury.
- Mechanism: Benefits are linked to mitochondrial stimulation, increased ATP production, better circulation, and modulation of oxidative stress/inflammation.
Conclusion:
The review suggests that PBM is a promising non-invasive adjunct therapy for musculoskeletal pain management and tissue recovery. However, the authors emphasized that outcomes vary depending on wavelength, energy dose, treatment duration, and protocol consistency, so stronger standardized clinical trials are still needed.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39493098/