1.Photobiomodulation as a novel therapeutic approach in the management of atopic diseases
Medical Lasers 2024;13(4):185-194
Hypersensitivities such as asthma, eczema, and allergic rhinitis, are chronic conditions marked by inflammation and immune system dysfunction. These conditions pose significant health challenges, often leading to an impaired quality of life. Although traditional therapies focus primarily on symptom management, they frequently come with substantial side effects. Photobiomodulation (PBM), a non-invasive treatment involving low-level light therapy, has emerged as a promising alternative. PBM offers a multifaceted approach to addressing the underlying mechanisms of atopic diseases by targeting the key immune pathways, including cytokine production, mast cell stabilization, and T cell modulation. Numerous experimental studies have revealed the therapeutic potential of PBM in various atopic disease models. These findings suggest that PBM may offer a safe and effective adjunct or alternative therapy for individuals suffering from these conditions.Nevertheless, further clinical research is essential to optimize the treatment parameters and fully unlock the therapeutic benefits of PBM. A deeper understanding of PBM’s molecular mechanisms will elucidate its precise mode of action. This can pave the way for the development of targeted therapies that maximize efficacy while minimizing the potential side effects. Ultimately, PBM may revolutionize the management of atopic diseases, offering a more holistic and patient-centered approach to treatment.
2.Phototherapy for osteoarthritis management: a narrative review
Andrew PADALHIN ; Phil-Sang CHUNG ; Seung Hoon WOO
Medical Lasers 2024;13(2):82-89
Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by chronic joint degeneration, particularly prevalent in the aging population.Current therapeutic options to address the symptoms of pain and reduced mobility provide limited relief and carry a significant risk of adverse effects. Thus, there is a need to explore non-invasive alternative therapies to manage OA symptoms while preventing disease progression and promoting joint tissue regeneration. This review examined studies conducted in the last 10 years to determine the potential of light-based therapy, particularly focusing on three key aspects: pain management and improvement of articular function; use of complementary light therapy; and stimulation of articular cartilage repair. Various studies have investigated the efficacy of phototherapy, particularly low-level laser therapy, in alleviating pain, improving functionality, and enhancing articular cartilage repair in OA patients. Efforts have also been made to investigate the regenerative potential of phototherapy in stimulating articular cartilage repair. Despite promising findings, several challenges remain, including the lack of standardized testing methods for evaluating the efficacy of laser therapy on OA joints and the need for further research to bridge the gap between early-stage OA in humans and the advanced stages of the disease. Nonetheless, laser therapy presents a non-invasive, well-tolerated treatment option with potential benefits for individuals with OA. Further research is warranted to optimize treatment protocols and explore potential synergistic effects with other interventions.