Role of Low-Level Laser Therapy in Neurorehabilitation

PM R, 2010 · DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2010.10.013 · Published: December 1, 2010

Simple Explanation

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), also known as photobiomodulation, uses low-powered lasers to stimulate a biological response in cells, without generating heat, sound or vibration. Mitochondria within cells are believed to be the primary targets of this light, leading to increased production of ATP, reactive oxygen species, intracellular calcium, and nitric oxide release. This process can activate transcription factors, resulting in the expression of protective, anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidant, and pro-proliferation genes.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Animal models and human clinical trials

Evidence Level

Review article

Key Findings

1
Transcranial LLLT improved recovery after ischemic stroke in rats.
2
LLLT can progressively improve nerve motor function in patients with long-term peripheral nerve injury, leading to significant functional recovery.
3
Mitochondrial movement in PD cybrid neuronal cells was significantly reduced compared with mitochondrial movement in disease-free CNT cybrid neuronal cells, and 2 hours after LLLT, the average velocity of mitochondrial movement in PD cybrid neurites was significantly increased and restored to levels comparable with those of CNT.

Research Summary

LLLT is increasingly used in physical medicine and rehabilitation for wound healing and pain relief, and its applications have expanded to include stroke, myocardial infarction, and brain disorders. The mechanisms of LLLT involve photochemical reactions in cells, where light energy excites electrons in chromophores, like mitochondria, leading to various cellular tasks and increased ATP production. LLLT has shown promise in treating neurological conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, degenerative brain disease, spinal cord injury, and peripheral nerve regeneration, both in animal studies and human clinical trials.

Practical Implications

Stroke Rehabilitation

LLLT can be used to improve neurological deficits and promote neurogenesis after stroke, potentially leading to better functional outcomes.

Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment

Transcranial LLLT may reduce long-term neurological deficits and decrease lesion size following traumatic brain injury, offering a non-invasive treatment option.

Peripheral Nerve Regeneration

LLLT can enhance the regenerative process of peripheral nerves after injury, potentially improving motor function and functional recovery.

Study Limitations

1
Widespread uncertainty and confusion exists about the mechanisms of action of LLLT at the molecular, cellular, and tissue levels.
2
A large number of parameters (eg, wavelength, fluence, irradiance, treatment timing and repetition, pulsing, and polarization) can be chosen in designing LLLT protocols.
3
a biphasic dose response exists in laser therapy

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