# Low-level laser therapy > Mediated Wiki article. Canonical URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/Low-level_laser_therapy > Markdown URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/Low-level_laser_therapy.md > Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Low-level_laser_therapy > Source revision: 1350545328 > License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) {{Short description|Treatment using irradiation with light of low power intensity}} {{cs1 config|name-list-style=vanc}} {{distinguish|Light therapy}} {{Infobox medical intervention|Name=Low-level laser therapy|Image=File:Laserbehandling.jpg|Caption=LLLT being applied for rheumatism in Sweden|ICD10=|ICD9=|MeshID=D028022|OPS301=|OtherCodes=|HCPCSlevel2=}} '''Low-level laser therapy''' ('''LLLT'''), '''cold laser therapy''' or '''photobiomodulation''' ('''PBM'''){{cite journal | last=Hamblin | first=Michael R. | title=Photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy | journal=Journal of Biophotonics | year=2016 | volume=9 | issue=11–12 | pages=1122–1124 | pmid=27973730 | doi=10.1002/jbio.201670113 | pmc=5215795 }}{{cite book |last1=Hamblin |first1=Michael R. |last2=Gupta|first2=Asheesh |chapter=History and Fundamentals of Low-Level Laser (Light) Therapy |date=2013 |url=https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.1201/b15582-10/history-fundamentals-low-level-laser-light-therapy-asheesh-gupta-michael-hamblin |title=Handbook of Photomedicine |access-date=2023-09-04 |publisher=CRC Press |doi=10.1201/b15582-10 |isbn=978-0-429-19384-2|editor-first1=Michael R. |editor-last1=Hamblin|editor-first2= Yingying |editor-last2=Huang}} is a [photochemical reaction](/source/Photochemistry)-based medical treatment that applies low-level (low-[power](/source/Power_(physics))) [laser](/source/laser)s or [light-emitting diodes](/source/Light-emitting_diode) (LEDs) to the surface of the body without damaging tissue. Proponents claim that this treatment stimulates healing, relieves pain, and enhances cell function. Sometimes termed as low-level red-light therapy (LLRL), its effects appear to be limited to a specific range of [wavelengths](/source/wavelengths). Its effectiveness is under investigation. Several such devices are cleared by the [United States Food and Drug Administration](/source/United_States_Food_and_Drug_Administration) (FDA). The therapy may be effective for conditions such as juvenile [myopia](/source/myopia),Jiang M.D., Yu, et al., ''[https://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(21)00916-7/fulltext Effect of Repeated Low-Level Red-Light Therapy for Myopia Control in Children]'', ''Ophthalmology'', American Academy of Ophthalmology, Volume 129, Issue 5P509–519, May 2022. {{Cite web |last1=Jiang |first1=Yu |last2=Zhuoting |first2=Zhu |last3=Xingping |first3=Tan |last4=Xiangbin |first4=Kong |last5=Zhong |first5=Hui |last6=Zhang |first6=Jian |last7=Xiong |first7=Ruilin |last8=Yuan |first8=Yixiong |last9=Zeng |first9=Junwen |date=2021-12-01 |title=Effect of Repeated Low-Level Red-Light Therapy for Myopia Control in Children |url=https://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(21)00916-7/fulltext |website=American Academy of Ophthalmology}} [rheumatoid arthritis](/source/rheumatoid_arthritis),{{Cite journal |last1=Brosseau |first1=L. |last2=Welch |first2=V. |last3=Wells |first3=G. A. |last4=de Bie |first4=R. |last5=Gam |first5=A. |last6=Harman |first6=K. |last7=Morin |first7=M. |last8=Shea |first8=B. |last9=Tugwell |first9=P. |year=2005 |title=Low level laser therapy (Classes I, II and III) for treating rheumatoid arthritis |journal=Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews |volume=2010 |issue=4 |article-number=CD002049 |doi=10.1002/14651858.CD002049.pub2 |pmc=8406947 |pmid=16235295 |s2cid=40986179}} and [oral mucositis](/source/oral_mucositis). == Mechanism == {{Expand section|date=June 2023}} LLLT makes use of the [Grotthuss-Draper law](/source/Photoelectrochemical_process), the first law in [photochemistry](/source/photochemistry): light must be absorbed by a chemical substance in order for a photochemical reaction to take place. In the generally accepted LLLT theory that chemical substance is represented by the respiratory enzyme [cytochrome c oxidase](/source/cytochrome_c_oxidase), which is involved in the [electron transport chain](/source/electron_transport_chain) in [mitochondria](/source/mitochondria).{{cite journal|last1=Chung|first1=Hoon|last2=Dai|first2=Tianhong|last3=Sharma|first3=Sulbha K.|last4=Huang|first4=Ying-Ying|last5=Carroll|first5=James D.|last6=Hamblin|first6=Michael R.|year=2011|title=The Nuts and Bolts of Low-level Laser (Light) Therapy|journal=Annals of Biomedical Engineering|volume=40|issue=2|pages=516–533|doi=10.1007/s10439-011-0454-7|issn=0090-6964|pmc=3288797|pmid=22045511}}{{Cite journal|last1=Prindeze|first1=Nicholas J.|last2=Moffatt|first2=Lauren T.|last3=Shupp|first3=Jeffrey W.|date=2012-11-01|title=Mechanisms of action for light therapy: a review of molecular interactions|journal=Experimental Biology and Medicine|volume=237|issue=11|pages=1241–1248|doi=10.1258/ebm.2012.012180|issn=1535-3699|pmid=23239434|s2cid=227103}} Administering LLLT below the dose range does not appear to be effective.{{Cite journal |last1=Bjordal |first1=JM |last2=Couppé |first2=C |last3=Chow |first3=RT |last4=Tunér |first4=J |last5=Ljunggren |first5=EA |year=2003 |title=A systematic review of low level laser therapy with location-specific doses for pain from chronic joint disorders |journal=Australian Journal of Physiotherapy |volume=49 |issue=2 |pages=107–16 |doi=10.1016/s0004-9514(14)60127-6 |pmid=12775206 |doi-access=free}} == Applications == === Human use === ==== Musculoskeletal conditions ==== LLLT has been promoted for use in treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, including: * [osteoarthritis](/source/osteoarthritis){{Cite journal |last1=Stausholm |first1=Martin Bjørn |last2=Naterstad |first2=Ingvill Fjell |last3=Joensen |first3=Jon |last4=Lopes-Martins |first4=Rodrigo Álvaro Brandão |last5=Sæbø |first5=Humaira |last6=Lund |first6=Hans |last7=Fersum |first7=Kjartan Vibe |last8=Bjordal |first8=Jan Magnus |date=2019-10-28 |title=Efficacy of low-level laser therapy on pain and disability in knee osteoarthritis: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised placebo-controlled trials |journal=BMJ Open |volume=9 |issue=10 |article-number=e031142 |doi=10.1136/bmjopen-2019-031142 |doi-access=free|issn=2044-6055 |pmc=6830679 |pmid=31662383}} * [rheumatoid arthritis](/source/rheumatoid_arthritis) * [temporomandibular joint](/source/temporomandibular_joint) disorders * chronic [low back pain](/source/low_back_pain){{Cite journal |last1=Huang |first1=ZeYu |last2=Ma |first2=Jun |last3=Chen |first3=Jing |last4=Shen |first4=Bin |last5=Pei |first5=FuXing |last6=Kraus |first6=Virginia Byers |date=2015-12-15 |title=The effectiveness of low-level laser therapy for nonspecific chronic low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis |journal=Arthritis Research & Therapy |volume=17 |doi=10.1186/s13075-015-0882-0 |doi-broken-date=12 July 2025 |issn=1478-6362 |pmc=4704537 |pmid=26667480 |doi-access=free |article-number=360}} * [neck pain](/source/neck_pain){{Cite journal |last1=Chow |first1=R. |last2=Johnson |first2=M. |last3=Lopes-Martins |first3=R. |last4=Bjordal |first4=J. |date=Nov 2009 |title=Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the management of neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised placebo or active-treatment controlled trials. |journal=Lancet |volume=374 |issue=9705 |pages=1897–1908 |doi=10.1016/S0140-6736(09)61522-1 |pmid=19913903 |s2cid=16336402}} * [tendinopathy](/source/tendinopathy){{Cite journal |last1=Bjordal |first1=J. M. |last2=Lopes-Martins |first2=R. A. |last3=Joensen |first3=J. . |last4=Couppe |first4=C. . |last5=Ljunggren |first5=A. E. |last6=Stergioulas |first6=A. |last7=Johnson |first7=M. I. |year=2008 |title=A systematic review with procedural assessments and meta-analysis of Low Level Laser Therapy in lateral elbow tendinopathy (tennis elbow) |journal=BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders |volume=9 |doi=10.1186/1471-2474-9-75 |pmc=2442599 |pmid=18510742 |doi-access=free |article-number=75}}{{Cite journal |last1=Tumilty |first1=S. . |last2=Munn |first2=J. . |last3=McDonough |first3=S. . |last4=Hurley |first4=D. A. |last5=Basford |first5=J. R. |last6=Baxter |first6=G. D. |year=2010 |title=Low Level Laser Treatment of Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis |journal=Photomedicine and Laser Surgery |volume=28 |issue=1 |pages=3–16 |doi=10.1089/pho.2008.2470 |pmid=19708800 |s2cid=10634480}} * chronic joint disorders. ==== Other ==== * [wound healing](/source/wound_healing){{Cite journal |last1=Da Silva |first1=J. P. |last2=Da Silva |first2=M. A. |last3=Almeida |first3=A. P. F. |last4=Junior |first4=I. L. |last5=Matos |first5=A. P. |year=2010 |title=Laser Therapy in the Tissue Repair Process: A Literature Review |journal=Photomedicine and Laser Surgery |volume=28 |issue=1 |pages=17–21 |doi=10.1089/pho.2008.2372 |pmid=19764898}} * [smoking cessation](/source/smoking_cessation) * [tuberculosis](/source/tuberculosis). * [periodontal disease](/source/periodontal_disease){{Cite journal |last=Laxmi |first=K Rama |last2=Ramesh |first2=KSV |last3=Sruthima |first3=NVSG |last4=Swetha |first4=P |last5=Kumar |first5=P Mohan |last6=Ramesh |first6=M V |last7=Ramya |first7=V |last8=Gokul |first8=Mopati Nishanth Reddy |date=2025-11-01 |title=Impact of Photobiomodulation on the Clinical Outcomes of Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Clinical Trials |url=https://doi.org/10.1177/23202068251379958 |journal=Journal of Advanced Oral Research |language=EN |volume=16 |issue=2 |pages=140–151 |doi=10.1177/23202068251379958 |issn=2320-2068|url-access=subscription }} ==== Prevention ==== LLLT appears to be effective for preventing: * [oral mucositis](/source/oral_mucositis) in recipients of a [stem cell transplant](/source/stem_cell_transplant) with chemotherapy{{cite journal|last1=Oberoi|first1=S|last2=Zamperlini-Netto|first2=G|last3=Beyene|first3=J|last4=Treister|first4=NS|last5=Sung|first5=L|date=2014|title=Effect of prophylactic low level laser therapy on oral mucositis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.|journal=PLOS ONE|volume=9|issue=9|article-number=e107418|bibcode=2014PLoSO...9j7418O|doi=10.1371/journal.pone.0107418|pmc=4157876|pmid=25198431|doi-access=free}}{{Cite journal|last1=On behalf of The Mucositis Study Group of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer/International Society of Oral Oncology (MASCC/ISOO)|last2=Zadik|first2=Yehuda|last3=Arany|first3=Praveen R.|last4=Fregnani|first4=Eduardo Rodrigues|last5=Bossi|first5=Paolo|last6=Antunes|first6=Héliton Spindola|last7=Bensadoun|first7=René-Jean|last8=Gueiros|first8=Luiz Alcino|last9=Majorana|first9=Alessandra|date=October 2019|title=Systematic review of photobiomodulation for the management of oral mucositis in cancer patients and clinical practice guidelines|journal=Supportive Care in Cancer|volume=27|issue=10|pages=3969–3983|doi=10.1007/s00520-019-04890-2|issn=0941-4355|pmid=31286228|doi-access=free|hdl=11379/522893|hdl-access=free}} === Brain stimulation === Transcranial low level light therapy (or transcranial photobiomodulation) is limited in [neuromodulation](/source/neuromodulation) by several factors: * Excessive radiation can be harmful.Smith KC (2005). Laser (and LED) therapy is phototherapy. Photomed. Laser Surg. 23, 78–80. Therefore, dosing must be strictly controlled to achieve growth stimulation, while avoiding excessive [singlet oxygen](/source/singlet_oxygen) that may be harmful to cells.Karu, T (1989). Photobiology of low-power laser effects. Health Physics 56, 691–704. * LED stimulation cannot pass through the skin,{{citation needed|date=December 2025}} only laser light can penetrate deeper tissues and stimulate brain areas. The penetration depth of white and LED light into the skin increases with increasing wavelength from the [ultraviolet](/source/ultraviolet) to the visible light range, and then decreases again in the [infrared](/source/infrared) range. This depth increases if the thickness of the [stratum corneum](/source/stratum_corneum) decreases.Louise Finlayson, Isla RM Barnard, Lewis McMillan, Sally H Ibbotson, C Tom A Brown, Ewan Eadie, Kenneth Wood (2021) "Depth Penetration of Light into Skin as a Function of Wavelength from 200 to 1000 nm". ''Photochemistry and Photobiology'', Volume 98, Issue 4, published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. https://doi.org/10.1111/php.13550. White light and LED radiation can only penetrate 0.0017 mm to 5 mm of tissue.Louise Finlayson, Isla RM Barnard, Lewis McMillan, Sally H Ibbotson, C Tom A Brown, Ewan Eadie, Kenneth Wood (2021) "Depth Penetration of Light into Skin as a Function of Wavelength from 200 to 1000 nm". ''Photochemistry and Photobiology'', Volume 98, Issue 4, published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. https://doi.org/10.1111/php.13550. At wavelengths of 450 nm and 650 nm only 1% of the light reaches approximately 1.6 mm and very little reaches 5 mm.Ash, C, M Dubec, K Donne and T Bashford (2017) "Effect of wavelength and beam width on penetration in light-tissue interaction using computational methods". ''Lasers Med. Sci'' 32, 1909–1918.{{better citation needed|date=December 2025}} * The action spectrum for tissue regeneration and repair consist of more than one wavelength,Calderhead RG (2007). "The photobiological basics behind light-emitting diode (LED) phototherapy". ''Laser Ther.'' 16, 97–108. such that laser and LED light sources may offer some disadvantages,Wunsch A and Matuschka K (2014). "A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase". ''Photomed Laser Surg'', 2014 32(2): p. 93–100.24286286 possibly destroying healthy cells. Links between neuronal activity and mental processes are still research questions as is whether the laser reaches only the neuronal structures that benefit from treatment. Insufficient information from clinical trials compares the effectiveness of different types of devices or device parameters (wavelengths, power output, session time, area of actuation).{{Cite journal |last1=Fernandes |first1=Filipa |last2=Oliveira |first2=Sofia |last3=Monteiro |first3=Francisca |last4=Gasik |first4=Michael |last5=Silva |first5=Filipe S. |last6=Sousa |first6=Nuno |last7=Carvalho |first7=Óscar |last8=Catarino |first8=Susana O. |date=2024-04-10 |title=Devices used for photobiomodulation of the brain—a comprehensive and systematic review |journal=Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation |volume=21 |issue=1 |page=53 |doi=10.1186/s12984-024-01351-8 |doi-access=free |issn=1743-0003 |pmc=11007916 |pmid=38600582}} === Veterinary use === Veterinary clinics use cold laser devices to treat a wide variety of ailments, from arthritis to wounds, on dogs and cats.{{Cite web|date=2011-02-23|title=Doggone Joints: Laser Therapy for Pet Arthritis|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Health/laser-therapy-staves-off-pets-arthritis/story?id=12974694|access-date=2016-07-19|publisher=ABC News}}Robinson, Narda G. (2013), [https://www.msdvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/complementary-and-alternative-veterinary-medicine/laser-therapy "Complementary and Alternative Veterinary Medicine: Laser Therapy"], ''The Merck Veterinary Manual'', 11th edition. In spite of this, little research has been done on its effects. According to Brennen McKenzie, president of the [Evidence-Based Veterinary Medicine Association](/source/Evidence-Based_Veterinary_Medicine_Association), as of 2016 "research into cold laser in dogs and cats is sparse and generally low quality. Most studies are small and have minimal or uncertain controls for bias and error".McKenzie, Brennen (2016), [https://digital.wvc.org/documents/Integrative-Medicine/The-Laser-Craze-What-Is-the-Evidence-for-Low-level-Laser-Therapy-SA222 "The Laser Craze: What Is the Evidence for Low-level Laser Therapy?"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180110061831/https://digital.wvc.org/documents/Integrative-Medicine/The-Laser-Craze-What-Is-the-Evidence-for-Low-level-Laser-Therapy-SA222|date=2018-01-10}} [SA222]; Western Veterinary Conference, ''Proceedings of the WVC 88th Annual Conference, Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Resort and Casino, Las Vegas, NV'', March 6–10, 2016.McKenzie, Brennen (2016), [http://skeptvet.com/Blog/2016/03/wvc-2016-the-laser-craze/ "WVC 2016: The Laser Craze"], ''The SkeptVet''. He allowed that some studies show promising results, while concluding that current evidence is not sufficient to support routine clinical use. == Contraindications == Based on the results of a systematic review, there is no evidence to suggest that people with cancer or people who are at risk of getting cancer should avoid photobiomodulation.{{Cite journal |last=Glass |first=Graeme Ewan |date=2023-04-10 |title=Photobiomodulation: A Systematic Review of the Oncologic Safety of Low-Level Light Therapy for Aesthetic Skin Rejuvenation |url=https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/43/5/NP357/7018419 |journal=Aesthetic Surgery Journal |language=en |volume=43 |issue=5 |pages=NP357–NP371 |doi=10.1093/asj/sjad018 |issn=1090-820X |pmc=10309024 |pmid=36722207}} == Side effects == There are some reports of mild pain or skin irritation after red-light therapy.{{Cite web |last=American Academy of Dermatology Association |date=2024 |title=Is red light therapy right for your skin? |url=https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/safety/red-light-therapy |access-date=2025-04-04 |website=www.aad.org |language=en}} The long-term effects on the skin or the hair are not known. Eye protection is suggested for some devices. For skin applications, different wavelengths of light may result in different biological effects depending on the person's skin type, race, and ethnicity.{{Cite journal |last1=Mineroff |first1=Jessica |last2=Maghfour |first2=Jalal |last3=Ozog |first3=David M. |last4=Lim |first4=Henry W. |last5=Kohli |first5=Indermeet |last6=Jagdeo |first6=Jared |date=2024-11-01 |title=Photobiomodulation CME part II: Clinical applications in dermatology |url=https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(24)00187-7/abstract |journal=Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology |language=English |volume=91 |issue=5 |pages=805–815 |doi=10.1016/j.jaad.2023.10.074 |issn=0190-9622 |pmid=38307144|url-access=subscription }} Clinical guidelines suggest that a dermatologist be consulted before undergoing treatment. For safety, use should be limited to a device approved for human use by the relevant government authority; for example, in the US, it is suggested that only devices certified by the [FDA](/source/Food_and_Drug_Administration) for dermatologic application be used. == History == [Faroese](/source/Faroe_Islanders) [physician](/source/physician) [Niels Finsen](/source/Niels_Ryberg_Finsen) is believed to be the father of modern [light therapy](/source/light_therapy).{{Cite book |last=Ingold |first=Niklaus |url=https://library.oapen.org/handle/20.500.12657/31817 |title=Lichtduschen Geschichte einer Gesundheitstechnik, 1890–1975 |publisher=Chronos Verlag |year=2015 |isbn=978-3-0340-1276-8 |pages=40–49 |hdl=20.500.12657/31817 |language=German}} He used red light to treat [smallpox](/source/smallpox) lesions. He received the [Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine](/source/Nobel_Prize_in_Physiology_or_Medicine) in 1903.{{cite web |url=https://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/medicine/laureates/1903/ |title=The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 1903 |date=2016-11-01 |website=Nobelprize.org |publisher=Nobel Media AB |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161022202413/http://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/medicine/laureates/1903/ |archive-date=2016-10-22 |url-status=live |access-date=2016-11-01}} [Scientific evidence](/source/Scientific_evidence) for some of his treatments is lacking, and later eradication of smallpox and development of [antibiotics](/source/antibiotics) for [tuberculosis](/source/tuberculosis) rendered light therapy obsolete for these diseases.{{cite web|url=http://www.uh.edu/engines/epi1769.htm|access-date=2014-04-05|title=Engines of our Ingenuity No. 1769: NIELS FINSEN}} Hungarian physician and surgeon [Endre Mester](/source/Endre_Mester) (1903–1984) is credited with the discovery of the biological effects of low power lasers,{{cite news|last1=Perera|first1=Judith|date=19 March 1987|title=The 'healing laser' comes into the limelight'|work=New Scientist|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qxwPsfm2RS8C&pg=PA32}} which occurred a few years after the 1960 invention of the [ruby laser](/source/ruby_laser) and the 1961 invention of the [helium–neon (HeNe) laser](/source/Helium%E2%80%93neon_laser). Mester accidentally discovered that low-level ruby laser light could regrow hair during an attempt to [replicate](/source/Reproducibility) an experiment that showed that such lasers could reduce tumors in mice. The laser he was using was faulty and was not as powerful as believed. It failed to affect the tumors, but in places where the mice had been shaved in order to do the experiments, the hair grew back more quickly on the treated mice than on those among the control group.{{cite journal|last1=Hamblin|first1=MR|date=1 October 2016|title=Shining light on the head: Photobiomodulation for brain disorders.|journal=BBA Clinical|volume=6|pages=113–124|doi=10.1016/j.bbacli.2016.09.002|pmc=5066074|pmid=27752476}} He published those results in 1967. Mester went on to show that low level HeNe light could accelerate wound healing in mice. By the 1970s, he was applying low level laser light to treat people with [skin ulcers](/source/ulcer_(dermatology)). In 1974, he founded the Laser Research Center at the [Semmelweis Medical University](/source/Semmelweis_University) in [Budapest](/source/Budapest), and continued working there for the remainder of his life.{{cite web|date=April 18, 2004|title=Celebrating the 100th birthday of Professor Endre Mester|url=http://www.laser.nu/lllt/endre_mester_100_year.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303211334/http://www.laser.nu/lllt/endre_mester_100_year.htm|archive-date=March 3, 2016|website=Laser World|publisher=Swedish Laser-Medical Society}} His sons carried on his work and brought it to the United States. By 1987, companies selling lasers were claiming that they could treat pain, accelerate healing of sports injuries, and treat arthritis, but there was little evidence for this at that time. Mester originally called this approach "laser biostimulation", but it soon became known as "low-level laser therapy". With the adaptation of [light emitting diodes](/source/light_emitting_diodes) it became known as "low-level light therapy"; to resolve confusion around the exact meaning of "low level", the term "photobiomodulation" arose as a synonym. == Names == Alternative terms for ''low level light therapy'' are: LLLT, laser biostimulation, laser phototherapy, low-level laser therapy, low-power laser irradiation, low-power laser therapy, and photobiomodulation therapy. The term ''photobiomodulation therapy'' is considered the preferred term by industry professionals.{{Citation |last1=Hamblin |first1=Michael R. |title=Introduction |date=2018-01-12 |work=Low-Level Light Therapy: Photobiomodulation |url=https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/ebooks/TT/Low-Level-Light-Therapy-Photobiomodulation/1/Introduction/10.1117/3.2295638.ch1?SSO=1 |access-date=2021-02-11 |publisher=SPIE |doi=10.1117/3.2295638.ch1 |isbn=978-1-5106-1416-1 |last2=Carroll |first2=James D. |last3=de Freitas |first3=Lucas Freitas |last4=Huang |first4=Ying-Ying |last5=Ferraresi |first5=Cleber|url-access=subscription }}.{{Cite web|title=Photobiomodulation|url=https://www.aslms.org/for-the-public/treatments-using-lasers-and-energy-based-devices/photobiomodulation|access-date=2019-09-02|website=www.aslms.org}} However LLLT has been marketed and researched under a number of other terms, including red light therapy,{{Cite web|title=What Is Red Light Therapy?|url=https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/red-light-therapy|access-date=2021-02-11|website=WebMD|language=en}} low-power laser therapy (LPLT), soft laser therapy, low-intensity laser therapy, low-energy laser therapy, cold laser therapy, bio-stimulation laser therapy, photo-biotherapy, therapeutic laser, and monochromatic infrared light energy (MIRE) therapy.American Cancer Society. [https://web.archive.org/web/20150424103028/http://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatmentsandsideeffects/complementaryandalternativemedicine/manualhealingandphysicaltouch/cold-laser-therapy Cold Laser Therapy] Page archived April 24, 2015 More specific applications sometimes have their own terms, for example when administered to acupuncture points, the procedure is called laser acupuncture. When applied to the head, LLLT may be known as transcranial photobiomodulation, transcranial near-infrared laser therapy (NILT),{{cite journal|last1=Lapchak|first1=PA|date=December 2010|title=Taking a light approach to treating acute ischemic stroke patients: transcranial near-infrared laser therapy translational science|journal=Annals of Medicine|volume=42|issue=8|pages=576–86|doi=10.3109/07853890.2010.532811|pmc=3059546|pmid=21039081}} or transcranial low level light therapy. == Government action == The FDA filed a complaint for injunction in 2014, alleging that the company QLaser PMA was marketing its devices as being able to treat "over 200 different diseases and disorders," including cancer, cardiac arrest, deafness, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, macular degeneration, and venereal disease. This case resulted in a permanent injunction against the manufacture, marketing, sale, and distribution of those devices in 2015.{{Cite web|title=District Court Grants Permanent Injunction Against Device Maker|url=https://www.policymed.com/2015/10/district-court-grants-permanent-injunction-against-device-maker.html|access-date=2021-02-11|website=Policy & Medicine|date=5 May 2018 |language=en-US}} In 2017, the owner of QLaser, Robert Lytle, and two of QLaser's distributors were charged with a criminal conspiracy to commit fraud. Lytle pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to introduce misbranded medical devices into interstate commerce with the intent to defraud and mislead, and one count of criminal contempt in January 2018. Lytle was sentenced to serve 12 years in prison and made an initial restitution payment of $637,000. Lytle's conspirators were sentenced to 24 months and 15 months, respectively.{{Cite web|last=Hein|first=Alexandria|date=2018-04-24|title='QLaser' TV infomercial doc gets 12 years in prison for selling scam device|url=https://www.foxnews.com/health/qlaser-tv-infomercial-doc-gets-12-years-in-prison-for-selling-scam-device|access-date=2021-02-11|website=Fox News|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|title=A Skeptical Look at Low Level Laser Therapy {{!}} Quackwatch|date=26 April 2018|url=https://quackwatch.org/device/reports/lllt/|access-date=2020-02-28|language=en-US}} == Insurance coverage == {{globalise-section|date=January 2024}} [Blue Cross Blue Shield Association](/source/Blue_Cross_Blue_Shield_Association) and [Aetna](/source/Aetna) provide coverage for the prevention of [oral mucositis](/source/oral_mucositis), but not any other reason.{{cite web|author=Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC)|title=Low-Level Laser Therapy|url=http://medicalpolicy.bluekc.com/MedPolicyLibrary/Medicine/Standard%20Medicine/06-18_2_Low_Level_Laser_Therapy.pdf|access-date=2 February 2019|id=Policy No. 2.01.56}} (Policy reviewed each June; if link is dead try replacing "06-18" with a more recent year.)[http://www.aetna.com/cpb/medical/data/600_699/0604.html "Infrared therapy"]. Aetna clinical policy bulletin 0363, reviewed June 17, 2020. Aetna has additional information in its [http://www.aetna.com/cpb/medical/data/300_399/0363.html "Clinical Policy Bulletin on Cold Laser and High-Power Laser Therapies"]. The [Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services](/source/Centers_for_Medicare_and_Medicaid_Services) does not provide coverage for LLLT.[https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/details/nca-decision-memo.aspx?NCAId=176&NcaName=Infrared+Therapy+Devices&DocID=CAG-00291N&id=176&bc=gAAAAAgAAgAAAA==& "Decision memo for infrared therapy devices" (CAG00291N)]. Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Oct 24, 2006. [Cigna](/source/Cigna) lists LLLT as "experimental, investigational, or unproven for any indication" and provides literature review summaries for a number of conditions.{{Cite web |date= |title=Cigna Medical Coverage Policy – Therapy Services Low-Level Laser and High-Power Laser Therapy |url=https://static.cigna.com/assets/chcp/pdf/coveragePolicies/medical/CPG030_laser_therapy.pdf |access-date=2021-02-11 |website=Cigna Medical Coverage Policy}} == Research == upright=1.2|thumb|Demonstration of LLLT with intranasal irradiation === Musculoskeletal === Evidence does not support a benefit in [delayed-onset muscle soreness](/source/Delayed_onset_muscle_soreness).{{Cite journal|last1=Nampo|first1=Fernando Kenji|last2=Cavalheri|first2=Vinícius|last3=Ramos|first3=Solange de Paula|last4=Camargo|first4=Enilton Aparecido|date=2016-01-01|title=Effect of low-level phototherapy on delayed onset muscle soreness: a systematic review and meta-analysis|journal=Lasers in Medical Science|volume=31|issue=1|pages=165–177|doi=10.1007/s10103-015-1832-4|issn=1435-604X|pmid=26563953|s2cid=21912028}} It may be useful for muscle pain and injuries.{{cite journal|last1=Ferraresi|first1=C|last2=Hamblin|first2=MR|last3=Parizotto|first3=NA|date=1 November 2012|title=Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) on muscle tissue: performance, fatigue and repair benefited by the power of light.|journal=Photonics & Lasers in Medicine|volume=1|issue=4|pages=267–286|doi=10.1515/plm-2012-0032|pmc=3635110|pmid=23626925}} A 2008 [Cochrane Library](/source/Cochrane_Library) review concluded that LLLT has insufficient evidence for treatment of nonspecific [low back pain](/source/low_back_pain),{{Cite journal|last1=Yousefi-Nooraie|first1=R.|last2=Schonstein|first2=E.|last3=Heidari|first3=K.|last4=Rashidian|first4=A.|last5=Pennick|first5=V.|last6=Akbari-Kamrani|first6=M.|last7=Irani|first7=S.|last8=Shakiba|first8=B.|last9=Mortaz Hejri|first9=S.|last10=Mortaz Hejri|first10=S. O.|last11=Jonaidi|first11=A.|year=2008|editor1-last=Yousefi-Nooraie|editor1-first=Reza|title=Low level laser therapy for nonspecific low-back pain|url=http://researchonline.lshtm.ac.uk/8828/1/Yousefi-Nooraie_et_al-2007-The_Cochrane_library.pdf|journal=Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews|volume=2011 |issue=2|article-number=CD005107|doi=10.1002/14651858.CD005107.pub4|pmid=18425909|pmc=9044120 }} a finding echoed in a 2010 review of chronic low back pain.{{Cite journal|last1=Middelkoop|first1=M.|last2=Rubinstein|first2=S. M.|last3=Kuijpers|first3=T.|last4=Verhagen|first4=A. P.|last5=Ostelo|first5=R.|last6=Koes|first6=B. W.|last7=Van Tulder|first7=M. W.|year=2010|title=A systematic review on the effectiveness of physical and rehabilitation interventions for chronic non-specific low back pain|journal=European Spine Journal|volume=20|issue=1|pages=19–39|doi=10.1007/s00586-010-1518-3|pmc=3036018|pmid=20640863}} A 2015 review found benefit in nonspecific chronic low-back pain. LLLT may be useful in the treatment of both acute and chronic [neck pain](/source/neck_pain). In 2013, however, a systematic review and [meta-analysis](/source/meta-analysis) of LLLT for neck pain indicated that the benefit was not of significant importance and that the evidence had a high risk of bias.{{Cite journal|last1=Kadhim-Saleh|first1=Amjed|last2=Maganti|first2=Harinad|last3=Ghert|first3=Michelle|last4=Singh|first4=Sheila|last5=Farrokhyar|first5=Forough|date=2013-10-01|title=Is low-level laser therapy in relieving neck pain effective? Systematic review and meta-analysis|journal=Rheumatology International|volume=33|issue=10|pages=2493–2501|doi=10.1007/s00296-013-2742-z|issn=1437-160X|pmid=23579335|quote=his systematic review provides inconclusive evidence because of significant between-study heterogeneity and potential risk of bias.|s2cid=7057247}} In a study testing the efficacy of low-level laser therapy treating [plantar fasciitis](/source/plantar_fasciitis) found that LLLT significantly reduces pain in lower extremity tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis in the short and medium terms.{{Cite journal |last1=Naterstad |first1=Ingvill Fjell |last2=Joensen |first2=Jon |last3=Bjordal |first3=Jan Magnus |last4=Couppé |first4=Christian |last5=Lopes-Martins |first5=Rodrigo Alvaro Brandão |last6=Stausholm |first6=Martin Bjørn |date=2022-09-28 |title=Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in patients with lower extremity tendinopathy or plantar fasciitis: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials |journal=BMJ Open |volume=12 |issue=9 |article-number=e059479 |doi=10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059479 |doi-access=free|issn=2044-6055 |pmc=9528593 |pmid=36171024}} The same study also stated that while comparing the effect of LLLT to that of therapeutic [ultrasound](/source/ultrasound) in persons with [patellar tendinopathy](/source/patellar_tendinopathy), and they found a statistically significant effect in favor of LLLT, both on pain reduction and function. There are tentative data that LLLT is useful in the short-term treatment of pain caused by [rheumatoid arthritis](/source/rheumatoid_arthritis), and possibly chronic joint disorders. Research that compared the effects of LLLT against other treatments, sham treatments, or no treatment at all, and randomized adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis to receive it were considered. These outcomes included pain, functional capacity, adverse events, inflammation, disease activity, range of motion, stiffness in the morning, muscle strength, and quality of life.{{Cite journal |last1=Lourinho |first1=Ingrid |last2=Sousa |first2=Tamara |last3=Jardim |first3=Roger |last4=Pinto |first4=Ana Carolina |last5=Iosimuta |first5=Natália |date=2023 |title=Effects of low-level laser therapy in adults with rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials |journal=PLOS ONE |volume=18 |issue=9 |article-number=e0291345 |doi=10.1371/journal.pone.0291345 |doi-access=free |issn=1932-6203 |pmc=10490856 |pmid=37683021|bibcode=2023PLoSO..1891345L }} The findings indicate that the differences between utilizing a sham and an infrared laser may be negligible or nonexistent in terms of pain, stiffness in the morning, grip strength, functional ability, inflammation, range of motion, disease activity, and side events. It was also discovered that the data about the effects of laser acupuncture against [reflexology](/source/reflexology) in terms of functional ability, quality of life, and inflammation is quite hazy, and about the effects of red laser versus sham in terms of pain, morning stiffness, and side events. The usefulness of red laser, laser acupuncture, and reflexology in the treatment of RA patients is not well enough demonstrated. A 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis found evidence for pain reduction in [osteoarthritis](/source/osteoarthritis). While it does not appear to improve pain in [temporomandibular disorder](/source/temporomandibular_disorder)s, it may improve function.{{Cite journal|last1=Chen|first1=J.|last2=Huang|first2=Z.|last3=Ge|first3=M.|last4=Gao|first4=M.|date=2015-04-01|title=Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the treatment of TMDs: a meta-analysis of 14 randomised controlled trials|journal=Journal of Oral Rehabilitation|volume=42|issue=4|pages=291–299|doi=10.1111/joor.12258|issn=1365-2842|pmid=25491183}} There is tentative evidence of benefit in [tendinopathy](/source/tendinopathy). A 2014 review found benefit in shoulder tendinopathy.{{Cite journal|last1=Haslerud|first1=Sturla|last2=Magnussen|first2=Liv Heide|last3=Joensen|first3=Jon|last4=Lopes-Martins|first4=Rodrigo Alvaro Brandao|last5=Bjordal|first5=Jan Magnus|date=2015-06-01|title=The efficacy of low-level laser therapy for shoulder tendinopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials|journal=Physiotherapy Research International|volume=20|issue=2|pages=108–125|doi=10.1002/pri.1606|issn=1471-2865|pmid=25450903|hdl-access=free|hdl=1956/17899}} A 2014 [Cochrane review](/source/Cochrane_review) found tentative evidence that it may help in [frozen shoulder](/source/Adhesive_capsulitis_of_the_shoulder).{{cite journal|last1=Page|first1=MJ|last2=Green|first2=S|last3=Kramer|first3=S|last4=Johnston|first4=RV|last5=McBain|first5=B|last6=Buchbinder|first6=R|date=Oct 1, 2014|title=Electrotherapy modalities for adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)|journal=The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews|volume=2014|issue=10|article-number=CD011324|doi=10.1002/14651858.CD011324|pmid=25271097|s2cid=32666794|pmc=10898218}} === Mouth === Similarly, the use of lasers to treat [chronic periodontitis](/source/chronic_periodontitis){{Cite journal|last1=Cobb|first1=C. M.|year=2006|title=Lasers in Periodontics: A Review of the Literature|journal=Journal of Periodontology|volume=77|issue=4|pages=545–564|doi=10.1902/jop.2006.050417|pmid=16584335|doi-access=free|s2cid=16452438}} and to speed healing of [infections around dental implants](/source/Peri-implantitis){{Cite journal|last1=Sculean|first1=A.|last2=Schwarz|first2=F.|last3=Becker|first3=J.|year=2005|title=Anti-infective therapy with an Er:YAG laser: influence on peri-implant healing|journal=Expert Review of Medical Devices|volume=2|issue=3|pages=267–76|doi=10.1586/17434440.2.3.267|pmid=16288590|s2cid=5544626}} is suggested, but there is insufficient evidence to indicate a use superior to traditional practices.{{Cite journal|last1=Karlsson|first1=M. R.|last2=Diogo Löfgren|first2=C. I.|last3=Jansson|first3=H. M.|year=2008|title=The Effect of Laser Therapy as an Adjunct to Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatment in Subjects with Chronic Periodontitis: A Systematic Review|journal=Journal of Periodontology|volume=79|issue=11|pages=2021–2028|doi=10.1902/jop.2008.080197|pmid=18980508|doi-access=free}} There is tentative evidence for dentin hypersensitivity.{{Cite journal|last1=Sgolastra|first1=F.|last2=Petrucci|first2=A.|last3=Severino|first3=M.|last4=Gatto|first4=R.|last5=Monaco|first5=A.|date=2013-06-01|title=Lasers for the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity: a meta-analysis|journal=Journal of Dental Research|volume=92|issue=6|pages=492–499|doi=10.1177/0022034513487212|issn=1544-0591|pmid=23609160|s2cid=25494366}} It does not appear to be useful for orthodontic pain.{{Cite journal|last1=Eslamian|first1=L.|last2=Borzabadi-Farahani|first2=A.|last3=Hassanzadeh-Azhiri|first3=A.|last4=Badiee|first4=M.R.|last5=Fekrazad|first5=R.|date=2013-01-20|title=The effect of 810-nm low-level laser therapy on pain caused by orthodontic elastomeric separators|journal=Lasers in Medical Science|volume=29|issue=2|pages=559–564|doi=10.1007/s10103-012-1258-1|pmid=23334785|s2cid=25416518}}{{Cite journal|last1=Ren|first1=Chong|last2=McGrath|first2=Colman|last3=Yang|first3=Yanqi|date=2015-09-01|title=The effectiveness of low-level diode laser therapy on orthodontic pain management: a systematic review and meta-analysis|journal=Lasers in Medical Science|volume=30|issue=7|pages=1881–1893|doi=10.1007/s10103-015-1743-4|issn=1435-604X|pmc=4562996|pmid=25800534}} LLLT might be useful for wisdom tooth extraction (complications).{{Cite journal|last1=He|first1=W. L.|last2=Yu|first2=F. Y.|last3=Li|first3=C. J.|last4=Pan|first4=J.|last5=Zhuang|first5=R.|last6=Duan|first6=P. J.|date=2015-08-01|title=A systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the management of complication after mandibular third molar surgery|journal=Lasers in Medical Science|volume=30|issue=6|pages=1779–1788|doi=10.1007/s10103-014-1634-0|issn=1435-604X|pmid=25098769|s2cid=22627779}} === Hair loss === LLLT has been studied as a treatment for [hair loss](/source/hair_loss); a review in 2012 found little evidence to support the use of lasers to treat hair loss.{{Cite journal|last1=Rangwala|first1=Sophia|last2=Rashid|first2=Rashid M.|date=Feb 2012|title=Alopecia: a review of laser and light therapies|journal=Dermatology Online Journal|volume=18|issue=2|page=3|doi=10.5070/D31JT041T2|issn=1087-2108|pmid=22398224|quote=Since then, a number of studies have suggested the use of lasers as an effective way to treat alopecia, particularly androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata, but there is still a paucity of independent, peer-reviewed blinded clinical trials.}} A 2014 review found tentative evidence for benefit for lasers,{{Cite journal|last1=Avci|first1=Pinar|last2=Gupta|first2=Gaurav K.|last3=Clark|first3=Jason|last4=Wikonkal|first4=Norbert|last5=Hamblin|first5=Michael R.|date=February 2014|title=Low-Level Laser (Light) Therapy (LLLT) for Treatment of Hair Loss|journal=Lasers in Surgery and Medicine|volume=46|issue=2|pages=144–151|doi=10.1002/lsm.22170|issn=0196-8092|pmc=3944668|pmid=23970445}} while another 2014 review concluded that the results were mixed, had a high risk of bias, and that its effectiveness was unclear.{{cite journal|last1=Gupta|first1=AK|last2=Daigle|first2=D|date=April 2014|title=The use of low-level light therapy in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia and female pattern hair loss.|journal=The Journal of Dermatological Treatment|volume=25|issue=2|pages=162–3|doi=10.3109/09546634.2013.832134|pmid=23924031|s2cid=13565213}} A 2015 review found tentative evidence of benefit.{{Cite journal|last1=Zarei|first1=Mina|last2=Wikramanayake|first2=Tongyu C.|last3=Falto-Aizpurua|first3=Leyre|last4=Schachner|first4=Lawrence A.|last5=Jimenez|first5=Joaquin J.|date=2015-12-21|title=Low level laser therapy and hair regrowth: an evidence-based review|journal=Lasers in Medical Science|volume=31|issue=2|pages=363–71|doi=10.1007/s10103-015-1818-2|issn=1435-604X|pmid=26690359|s2cid=22028662}} Additionally, a 2017 review of clinical trials found 10 of 11 trials reviewed "demonstrated significant improvement of androgenic alopecia in comparison to baseline or controls when treated with LLLT."{{cite journal|first1=Evan|last1= Darwin|first2= Alexandra |last2=Heyes|first3= Penelope A.|last3= Hirt|first4= Tongyu|last4= Wikramanayake|first5= Joaquin J.|last5=Jimenez|date=2018|title=Low-level laser therapy for the treatment of androgenic alopecia: a review|journal=Lasers in Medical Science|volume=33|issue=2|pages=425–434|doi=10.1007/s10103-017-2385-5|pmid=29270707|s2cid=23783876}} LLLT is shown to increase hair density and growth in both genders. The types of devices (hat, comb, helmet) and duration did not alter the effectiveness,{{cite journal | last1=Liu | first1=Kao-Hui | last2=Liu | first2=Donald | last3=Chen | first3=Yu-Tsung | last4=Chin | first4=Szu-Ying | title=Comparative effectiveness of low-level laser therapy for adult androgenic alopecia: a system review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials | journal=Lasers in Medical Science | publisher=Springer Science and Business Media LLC | volume=34 | issue=6 | date=2019-01-31 | issn=0268-8921 | doi=10.1007/s10103-019-02723-6 | pages=1063–1069| pmid=30706177 | s2cid=59524423 }} with more emphasis to be placed on lasers compared to LEDs.{{cite journal | last1=Gupta | first1=A. K. | last2=Carviel | first2=J. L. | title=Meta-analysis of photobiomodulation for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia | journal=Journal of Dermatological Treatment | publisher=Informa UK Limited | volume=32 | issue=6 | date=2019-11-20 | issn=0954-6634 | doi=10.1080/09546634.2019.1688755 | pages=643–647| pmid=31746251 | s2cid=208185306 }} Ultraviolet and infrared light are more effective for alopecia areata, while red light and infrared light is more effective for androgenetic alopecia.{{cite journal | last1=Zhang | first1=Yuehou | last2=Su | first2=Jianlong | last3=Ma | first3=Kui | last4=Fu | first4=Xiaobing | last5=Zhang | first5=Cuiping | title=Photobiomodulation Therapy With Different Wavebands for Hair Loss: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis | journal=Dermatologic Surgery | publisher=Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health) | volume=48 | issue=7 | date=2022-04-25 | issn=1076-0512 | doi=10.1097/dss.0000000000003472 | pages=737–740| pmid=35510860 | s2cid=248526019 }} Medical reviews suggest that LLLT is as effective or potentially more than other non invasive and traditional therapies such as [minoxidil](/source/minoxidil) and [finasteride](/source/finasteride) but further studies such as RCTs, long term follow up studies, and larger double blinded trials need to be conducted to confirm the initial findings.{{cite journal | last1=Gupta | first1=Aditya K. | last2=Bamimore | first2=Mary A. | last3=Foley | first3=Kelly A. | title=Efficacy of non-surgical treatments for androgenetic alopecia in men and women: a systematic review with network meta-analyses, and an assessment of evidence quality | journal=Journal of Dermatological Treatment | publisher=Informa UK Limited | volume=33 | issue=1 | date=2020-04-13 | issn=0954-6634 | doi=10.1080/09546634.2020.1749547 | pages=62–72| pmid=32250713 | s2cid=215405183 | url=https://figshare.com/articles/journal_contribution/12087042 }}{{cite journal | last1=Darwin | first1=Evan | last2=Heyes | first2=Alexandra | last3=Hirt | first3=Penelope A. | last4=Wikramanayake | first4=Tongyu Cao | last5=Jimenez | first5=Joaquin J. | title=Low-level laser therapy for the treatment of androgenic alopecia: a review | journal=Lasers in Medical Science | publisher=Springer Science and Business Media LLC | volume=33 | issue=2 | date=2017-12-21 | issn=0268-8921 | doi=10.1007/s10103-017-2385-5 | pages=425–434| pmid=29270707 | s2cid=23783876 }}{{cite journal |last1=Lueangarun |first1=S |last2=Visutjindaporn |first2=P |last3=Parcharoen |first3=Y |last4=Jamparuang |first4=P |last5=Tempark |first5=T |date=2021 |title=A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials of United States Food and Drug Administration-Approved, Home-use, Low-Level Light/Laser Therapy Devices for Pattern Hair Loss: Device Design and Technology |journal=The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology |volume=14 |issue=11 |pages=E64–E75 |issn=1941-2789 |pmc=8675345 |pmid=34980962}} === Brain injuries === LLLT has been studied for [traumatic brain injury](/source/traumatic_brain_injury) (TBI) and [stroke](/source/stroke) among other conditions. When applied to the head it is known as transcranial photobiomodulation or transcranial low level light therapy. === Cancer treatment side effects === LLLT has been studied as a way to reduce pain and swelling in breast-cancer related [lymphedema](/source/lymphedema).{{Cite journal|last1=Smoot|first1=Betty|last2=Chiavola-Larson|first2=Laura|last3=Lee|first3=Jeannette|last4=Manibusan|first4=Hidelisa|last5=Allen|first5=Diane D.|date=2015-06-01|title=Effect of low-level laser therapy on pain and swelling in women with breast cancer-related lymphedema: a systematic review and meta-analysis|journal=Journal of Cancer Survivorship: Research and Practice|volume=9|issue=2|pages=287–304|doi=10.1007/s11764-014-0411-1|issn=1932-2267|pmid=25432632|s2cid=27555240}} The 2015 systematic review and meta-analysis by Smoot, Chiavola-Larson, et al found "Moderate-strength evidence supports LLLT in the management of [breast cancer related lymphoedema], with […] reductions in volume and pain immediately after conclusion of LLLT treatments. Greater reductions in volume [of lymph nodes or surrounding tissues] were found with the use of LLLT than in treatments without it."{{Cite journal |last1=Smoot |first1=Betty |last2=Chiavola-Larson |first2=Laura |last3=Lee |first3=Jeannette |last4=Manibusan |first4=Hidelisa |last5=Allen |first5=Diane D. |date=2015 |title=Effect of low-level laser therapy on pain and swelling in women with breast cancer-related lymphedema: a systematic review and meta-analysis |url=http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s11764-014-0411-1 |journal=Journal of Cancer Survivorship |language=en |volume=9 |issue=2 |pages=287–304 |doi=10.1007/s11764-014-0411-1 |pmid=25432632 |s2cid=27555240 |issn=1932-2259|url-access=subscription }} === Stem cells === An ongoing area of research is the application of LLLT for increasing cell proliferation, including [stem cells](/source/stem_cells).{{Cite journal|last=Borzabadi-Farahani|first=A.|date=2016-07-22|title=Effect of low-level laser irradiation on proliferation of human dental mesenchymal stem cells; a systemic review.|journal=Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology|volume=162|pages=577–582|doi=10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2016.07.022|pmid=27475781|bibcode=2016JPPB..162..577B }} === Wound healing === Low level laser therapy has been studied as a potential treatment for [chronic wound](/source/chronic_wound)s, and higher-power lasers have sometimes been successfully used to close acute wounds as an alternative to [stitching](/source/surgical_suture).{{cite book | vauthors = Bouzari N, Elsaie ML, Nouri K | year = 2012 | chapter = Laser and Light for Wound Healing Stimulation | editor = Nouri K | title = Lasers in Dermatology and Medicine | pages = 267–275 | doi = 10.1007/978-0-85729-281-0_20 | isbn = 978-0-85729-281-0 | publisher = Springer London.}} However, {{as of|2012|lc=y}} and due to inconsistent results and the low quality of extant research, reviews in the scientific literature have not supported its widespread application.{{cite journal |doi=10.1111/j.1524-4725.2005.31086 |author2-link=David A. Wrone|vauthors=Posten W, Wrone DA, Dover JS, Arndt KA, Silapunt S, Alam M |s2cid=129167 |title=Low-level laser therapy for wound healing: mechanism and efficacy |journal=Dermatol Surg |volume=31 |issue=3 |pages=334–340 |year=2005 |pmid=15841638}} == See also == * {{annotated link|Blood irradiation therapy}} * {{annotated link|Light therapy}} * [Neurotechnology](/source/Neurotechnology) * [Neurotherapy](/source/Neurotherapy) * {{annotated link|Photomedicine}} * {{annotated link|Photorejuvenation}} == References == {{reflist|32em}} {{Authority control}} {{Medicine}} {{Lasers}} Category:Laser medicine Category:Alternative medicine Category:Bioelectromagnetic-based therapies Category:Light therapy Category:Hungarian inventions Category:Rheumatoid arthritis --- Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Low-level laser therapy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Low-level_laser_therapy) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Low-level_laser_therapy?action=history)). 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