PBM – Photobiomodulation Therapy is a life changing therapy – also referred to as low level laser therapy or red / near-infrared therapy.  This is a non-invasive treatment that uses low intensity light to stimulate mitochondrial processes and promote healing.  It’s biological effects are highly dependent on the specific wavelength and energy dose used – as different tissues and conditions may require distinct parameters for optimal results. It has been demonstrated in studies to be very safe and effective in a multitude of disease states.

The mechanism of action of PBM is remarkable – the specific nanometer of light is absorbed by cells- specifically the mitochondria, the “powerhouse of every cell”.   These are responsible for production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) the energy source that is required for every function in the body!  That includes the  energy needed to simply walk across the floor  to the energy required to clean up free radical damage in the brain to prevent amyloid plaque accumulation.  This can enhance cellular repair, reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and accelerate tissue regeneration.

Currently PBM has been successfully used in pain management, wound healing, reducing inflammation and even hair growth.   Since 1985 a tremendous amount of research has been conducted on Parkinson’s disease specifically, as well as other neurodegenerative disease states.  We are very proud to offer this modality at Advanced Neuropsychiatric Specialists which has helped hundreds of patients with a wide array of medical issues.

One of the most effective PBM therapies is a full bed unit called Novothor.  To let you know how effective this is – NASA and all branches of our military have a bed as well as many  NFL/NBA/NHL/MMA teams to assist players in healing and to reduce and prevent inflammation.  Currently ANPS has the only public Novothor bed available in the state of Michigan!  Our patients use this for treatment as well as a preventative modality for disease states ranging from osteoarthritis, joint inflammation, back pain, headaches to anxiety and depression.

PBM has had a sizable impact in studies in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.  We have recently completed a Parkinson’s disease study using a red/near infrared helmet at our clinic with promising results.  This helmet, produced by SunPower LED, has been successfully published in studies with neurodegenerative disease, traumatic brain injuries and addiction.  We are also utilizing a handheld unit that has the ability to use 1050nm for additional depth of penetration into tissues.

At ANPS we are very excited about a variety of modalities, including PBM, that we now have available to treat a wide range of disease states that, in the world of standard medicine, few options for treatment, if any, exist.  These modalities are backed by years of research and have strong safety profiles, as with PBM.  We are entering a new era of medicine – one that hopefully will change the course of medical history.