Photonic Light Therapy - Does It Work?

Does Photonic Light Therapy Really Work?

YES!  Light has proven to an effective source of healing.  The power of PBM light, or Photobiomodulation is widely accepted.   

The great thing about Light Therapy is that it is a modality that helps the body help itself.  It impacts neurotransmitters (chemical messengers). When light is applied to the skull, it is instrumental in endorphin release.  Endorphins are “feel good” chemicals naturally produced by the nervous system.   Light Therapy enhances cellular regeneration.

Without getting too technical LED lights alter cell function; they reduce free radicals, otherwise known as nitric oxide.   ATP, critical for cellular energy storage is affected by nitric oxide.  It is well known that the energy producing mitochondria (the part of the cell where energy is produced ) readily accepts light. Not only does it restore mitochondrial function, clinical studies have shown it improves retinal function.

Long known for wound healing properties it may surprise you to know Photonic Light Therapy has been successfully proven to be very effective for treating organic disease, for example renal and kidney disease. Many many dogs and cats with kidney disease and renal disease are benefiting from Light Therapy.  Although not a cure it can improve the quality and possibly longevity of life.

More and more veterinarians are turning to Light Therapy, not as a stand alone modality or alternative therapy but as an addition to their standard protocols.

One such veterinarian, Dr. Ronald E. Hirschberg DVM, (brocktonanimalhospital.com) is a recognized authority on photomedicine and its application in companion animal medicine. 

For example, he feels it is best to manage most partial ACL/CrCL tears through non surgical treatments such as  the correct use of Photobiomodulation (PBM)

Dr. Hirschberg explains that in his practise ACL and TPLO surgery cases getting a single treatment pre-op resulted in more significant weight bearing post surgery.   However, he states the perimeters are critical.  He has had such success on herniated discs, he no longer finds he needs to turn to surgery in many cases.

Training is required to use Light Therapy effectively. The colour, power, time, pulse rate, frequency of treatment schedule and the application of pressure are important to know when using Light Therapy.

In my next segment, learn how Light Therapy can benefit your horse.