Unlocking Health: The Power of Photobiomodulation (PBM)

Photobiomodulation (PBM) has gained attention around the world as a mainline approach to support health and wellness. This energy mechanism has always been part of the body’s mysteries that we are beginning to understand. We now know that the body requires specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cells and promote healing. This is the new body science. Research and practical applications show real benefits for rapid and safe pain relief, non-scarring tissue repair, and robust cellular function.

Understanding how light influences our bodies opens new doors for non-invasive treatments that are replacing the outdated traditional “wait-and-see” medicine. This post explores what PBM is, how it works, its benefits, and practical examples of its use.

What Is Photobiomodulation (PBM)?

Photobiomodulation involves exposing cells or tissues to low-level Red or Near-infrared (NIR) light. Unlike ultraviolet light, which can damage cells with over-exposure, these wavelengths penetrate the skin safely and interact with mitochondria, the energy producers inside cells. This represents the mainline research to date; however, AMHC has determined that each color of light has some positive healing effect on specific human body parts.

Blue laser light, not only can kill pathogens, but heals in the bone marrow and brain at a slower rate with a different mechanism than Red or NIR. And Green light laser therapy is highly effective in the eyes in reversing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

The PBM process triggers a series of biological responses that improve cell function. This includes increased production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule cells use for energy, and the release of signaling molecules that reduce inflammation and promote repair.

The previous name for Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) was Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT). Also known as the Cold Laser or the Healing Laser. All of these represent Class 3B, Medical Laser healing.

Laser or LED as the device to produce PBM wavelengths?

An LED (Light Emitting Diode) is inexpensive and produces a bright, scattered (non-coherent) light. Its penetration depth is limited due to the spreading of the light emitted.

A laser is a device that emits light through a process of “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation”. It has pin point coherent light & delivers penetration depths of Red and Near-infrared light that heal bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and damaged tissues.

Lasers deliver an immense healing technology available through Medical Lasers in the health sector.  A laser diode powered by 3-5 volts and is less than 1 inch in length. Most handheld laser devices have 5 or more of these laser diodes working together to cover a larger surface area.

Lasers have both medical & commercial purposes.

There are FIVE main categories of lasers:

Class . . . . . . . Strength . . . . . .Example/Focus . . . . . . . . .Year Began

Class I/II . . . .  < 1 mW . . . . . . Laser printers/pointers . . . . . . . 1980s

Class IIIA . . .  1 – 5 mW . . . . . Telescopes . . . .  .   .   .   .    .   . 1990s

Class IIIB . . . . 5 – 500 mW . . .Medical Grade  .  .  .  .  .  .  . . . 1970s

Class IVa  . . . . 10 – 10,000W. . Industrial – Safety Issues. . . .1950s

Class IVb . . . . .0.5 – 10 W . . .   Extended Medical. . . . . . . . . . .2000s

Class IIIB laser devices are used for PBMT, LLLT, Cold laser therapy, and Healing laser therapy (all the same).

AMHC uses Class 3B with NIR (808nm) as their mainline class.

AMHC uses Class IVb, a low cost Red one-Watt laser for tinnitus (18 minutes) and skin rejuvenation (2-5 seconds per spot).

AMHC uses 254 nm via a proprietary device build by AMI for eczema and psoriasis.

How Photobiomodulation Works in the Body

At the cellular level, photobiomodulation targets mitochondria. When these organelles absorb light, they become more efficient at producing ATP. More controlled energy means cells can perform their functions better, including healing damaged tissues.

Light exposure also influences reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) levels. These molecules play roles in cell signaling and blood flow. By balancing ROS and increasing NO, PBM can help reduce oxidative stress and improve circulation. PBM can provide a positive effect on all body systems via NOLT (Nitric Oxide Laser Therapy).

Benefits of Photobiomodulation for Health

Photobiomodulation offers a range of potential health benefits supported by scientific studies and clinical experience:

  * Pain relief 

PBM can reduce pain by decreasing inflammation and promoting nerve repair. It has been used for conditions like arthritis, muscle strains, and neuropathy.

• Wound healing 

Light therapy accelerates tissue repair by stimulating collagen production and cell growth. This helps wounds, burns, and ulcers heal much faster.

• Improved circulation 

By increasing nitric oxide, PBM enhances blood flow, which supports oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues.

• Reduced inflammation 

PBM modulates immune responses, lowering chronic inflammation that contributes to many diseases.

• Enhanced muscle recovery 

Athletes use PBM to reduce muscle soreness and speed recovery after exercise.

Practical Applications of Photobiomodulation

Photobiomodulation is used in various settings, from medical clinics to home devices. Here are some examples:

• Physical therapy clinics 

Therapists use PBM to treat musculoskeletal injuries, helping patients recover faster with less pain.

• Dermatology 

Red Light therapy supports skin health by improving texture, reducing wrinkles, and treating conditions like psoriasis.

AMHC uses Near-Infrared light therapy for most body parts: However, in Dec 2011 we treated a severe burn victim, Steve. On day 1, a propane tank exploded and burned Steve in the face, neck and right hand. Steve was rushed to the local hospital for emergency treatment. On day 2, Steve was released from the hospital. On day 3, Steve went back to work at the wrecking yard. On day 4, Dr Gil was looking for a special wheel at the wrecking yard and he saw Mr. Frankenstein (Steve). Dr Gil asked the yard manager if he could treat Steve. She said "Yes" and was afraid that Steve was going to sue her. Dr Gil gave Steve eight PBM laser treatments over a period of 22 days.

Before and After photos

Steve's testimonial appears in AMHC's list of testimonials, both at the end of About Us and in AMHC blog posts. AMHC's cost to Steve: zero dollars.

• Dental care 

PBM helps reduce inflammation and pain after dental procedures and supports tissue healing.

• Home devices  

Low cost and portable PBM devices allow users to apply light therapy for muscle pain, joint stiffness, or skin care at home. If you are NOT getting your desired results with your PBM device at home, please visit AMHC for professional advise and treatment.

Safety and Considerations

Photobiomodulation is safe when used correctly. The photonic energy levels are low and will not cause burns or damage. When the professional technician applies proper dosages for duration and intensity, the results are amazing: significantly reduced inflammation, much faster healing times, and no scarring.

People with certain conditions, such as photosensitivity, cancer, direct on the fetus in pregnant women, and direct on the thyroid should not use PBM. AMHC professionals will screen you for any conditions not suitable for PBM therapy.

How to Effectively use Photobiomodulation

• Consult a professional at AMHC

AMHC has professionally trained therapists who can utilize the proper PBM device and treatment dosages for you.

• Not all clinics who use PBM are qualified experts

Red laser light (~660 nm) is mainly used for cosmetic purposes, since it has a shallow penetration depth. Near-infrared (NIR) laser light (808 nm or 904 nm) is used for most body healings usually within no more than 3 treatments and its penetration depth is 2-3 inches. If your specialist does not understand or disagrees with these basics, please see the pros at AMHC.

• AMHC practitioners are professional Certified PBM Laser Specialists

Beware of the "professionals" who are not CERTIFIED and have no clue how the different classes of lasers work, much less the proper dosage per body ailment and body part. The World Association of PhotoBioModulation Therapy (WALT) publishes the proper dosage tables. AMHC are experts, their dosage tables are very similar to WALTs. AMHC has been a member of WALT since 2012.

• Get training & certification from AMHC, if you want to use a quality PBM laser.

There are hundreds of Red and NIR lasers on the market. Only a hand full are professional grade. AMHC's sister company, AMI builds high quality PBM lasers. A quality PBM device costs between $2,000 - $8,000. The $100 & $200 units are generally LEDs and not deep penetrating laser devices, thus less effective and many times totally ineffective.

Close-up of handheld NIR laser light therapy device emitting light through human skin and onto target tissue

The Future of Photobiomodulation

Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery, the journal delivering cutting-edge, peer-reviewed advances in phototherapy, photobiomodulation, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), laser surgery and surgery for over 35 years.

NAALT (North American Association of Laser Therapy) defines Photobiomodulation Therapy as “A form of light therapy that utilizes non-ionizing forms of light sources, including LASERS, LEDs, and broad-band light, in the visible and infrared spectrum. It is a non-thermal process involving endogenous chromophores eliciting photophysical (i.e. linear and non-linear) and photochemical events at various biological scales. This process results in beneficial therapeutic outcomes including but not limited to the alleviation of pain or inflammation, immunomodulation, and promotion of wound healing and tissue regeneration.”

WALT - World Association For Photobiomodulation Therapy

      The leading world body for promoting research, education and clinical applications in the field of photobiomodulation with lasers and other light sources. WALT was formed in 1994 in Barcelona, Spain at the joint Congress of the International Laser Therapy Association (ILTA) and the International Society for Laser Application in Medicine (ISLAM). The multinational membership includes the world’s leading experts in all forms of treatment mediated by the photobiomodulating effects of light occurring without thermal effects on irradiated tissue.

WALT publishes tables for the Recommended anti-inflammatory dosage for human body parts for photobiomodulation (PBM/ Low Level Laser Therapy).

AMHC has been a member of WALT since 2012.

     Medical doctors in the United States currently do NOT have insurance coverage of PBM because of politics within the AMA. Thus, as a consequence, in America, this highly effective healing technique is little known and most MDs are totally unaware of its effectiveness. However, most Chiropractors and Veterinarians in the United States are active practitioners of PBM therapy.

Medical doctors in Canada and the rest of the world use PBM as part of their services on a daily basis. We can only hope that in the next several years, the AMA can get off its politics long enough to accept one of the best healing tools in medical science.

Photobiomodulation delivers a safe, non-invasive way to enhance cellular function and support healing. By harnessing the power of light, this therapy provides superior benefits for pain relief, tissue repair, and overall wellness. Healing is 8 to 20 times faster than the outdated “wait-and-see” protocols.

"My discovery of LLLT (PBM) in 2006 was life changing. I learned laser light and devices in depth, and in 2008 made my Silver 7 hand-held laser unit, with 7 low power 150 mW 808 nm laser diodes and have healed over 800 clients. Not everyone is a good candidate for PBM, due to some ill condition."

Gilbert R. Case, CEO, PhD, MS, MBA

Advanced Medical Health Center, a non-profit alternative health care clinic

You-Tube Webinar author of The Amazing Brain: Secrets of Mind & Body

“Much of my career has been dedicated to researching photobiomodulation, establishing and substantiating benefits of this therapy for human health – and yet we have known about the many benefits for decades, most people have never heard of photobiomodulation.”

Michael R. Hamblin, PhD, Distinguished Visiting Professor,

Laser Research Center (University of Johannesburg, South Africa)

and Editor-in-Chief, Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery