PHOTOBIOMODULATION
What is Photobiomodulation?
Photobiomodulation, often called PBM or light therapy, is a non-invasive approach that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support cellular function.
Our bodies are made up of trillions of cells, and every one of those cells requires energy to do its job. Inside our cells are mitochondria, often referred to as the “powerhouses” of the cell. One of the ways photobiomodulation is thought to work is by delivering light that interacts with these cellular processes.
In simple terms, we are using light to support the body's own cellular processes.
How Does Photobiomodulation Work?
Specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light can penetrate tissue and interact with light-sensitive molecules within our cells.
One important area of research involves the mitochondria and an enzyme called cytochrome c oxidase, which plays an important role in cellular energy production.
This interaction may influence:
Cellular energy production (ATP)
Circulation and nitric oxide signaling
Cellular repair processes
Oxidative stress
Inflammatory signaling
Because the nervous system requires a tremendous amount of energy to function, researchers are also studying how photobiomodulation may influence the brain and nervous system.
Why Do We Use Photobiomodulation at Cardinal Kids?
At Cardinal Kids, we believe in looking at the whole child.
A child's ability to pay attention, regulate emotions, coordinate their body, communicate, play and participate in everyday life does not happen in isolation. All of these skills depend on a nervous system that is able to receive, process and respond to information efficiently.
For some children, photobiomodulation may be incorporated as an adjunct to their occupational therapy programrather than being used as a stand-alone intervention.
Our goal is not to use light to “fix” a child.
Instead, PBM gives us another tool that may help support the physiological foundation upon which development, regulation and learning occur.
Areas We May Consider Supporting
Depending on the individual child and their goals, PBM may be considered alongside therapy addressing areas such as:
Regulation and arousal
Sensory processing
Attention and engagement
Motor planning and coordination
Recovery following physical activity
Muscle comfort and recovery
Participation in therapeutic activities
Overall nervous system support
Every child is different. PBM is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a developmental condition, and we do not expect every child to respond in the same way.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. PBM is non-invasive and does not involve needles or injections.
Children can typically relax, talk, listen to music or participate in another appropriate activity during treatment.
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No.
Photobiomodulation uses light very differently from lasers designed to cut, burn or remove tissue. PBM uses controlled light exposure intended to create a photochemical response within cells rather than a surgical effect.
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PBM treatment time varies depending upon the goals of the session, areas being addressed and the individual child.
It may be incorporated into an occupational therapy session or provided according to an individualized treatment plan.
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Every child responds differently.
Some changes, when they occur, may be subtle. Families might notice differences in how their child participates, regulates or recovers, while other children may not demonstrate an obvious immediate change.
We look at patterns over time rather than relying on a single treatment response.
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There is no single protocol that is appropriate for every child.
Frequency and duration depend upon the reason PBM is being considered, the child's response and how it fits into the child's overall therapy program.
We continually reassess and adjust our recommendations based on the individual child.
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Yes. In fact, this is one of the reasons we are excited to have this technology available at Cardinal Kids.
When appropriate, PBM may complement other interventions already being used within a child's individualized program, including:
Sensory-based occupational therapy
Reflex integration
Motor and coordination activities
DIRFloortime®
Intensive occupational therapy
Sound-based listening programs
Home programming and parent education
We don't look at any one modality as the answer.
Instead, we ask:
What does this particular child's nervous system need in order to participate, connect, learn and grow?
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No.
Just like every intervention we provide at Cardinal Kids, PBM should be considered individually. We look at your child's history, current needs, goals and overall therapy program before determining whether photobiomodulation may be appropriate.
We also encourage families to share relevant medical information and discuss questions with their child's physician or other healthcare providers when appropriate.
A Whole-Child Approach
At Cardinal Kids Therapy, we believe that children develop best when we understand what is happening underneath the skills we can see.
Rather than focusing only on the outward behavior or task a child is struggling with, we look at sensory processing, regulation, motor skills, relationships, communication and the nervous system as a whole.
Photobiomodulation is another tool that allows us to support that bigger picture.
Our goal is always the same:
Help each child feel successful in their body so they can engage more fully in their world.
Interested in Learning More?
Contact Cardinal Kids Therapy to learn more about photobiomodulation and whether it may be appropriate to incorporate into your child's individualized therapy program.