Laser and Photobiomodulation

Photobiomodulation (PBM), also called low-level laser therapy (LLLT), applies red or near-infrared light at intensities too low to heat tissue, aiming to influence cell activity, reduce pain and support repair.

It is used in sport and exercise medicine (SEM) for tendinopathy, neck and back pain, knee osteoarthritis and recovery between training sessions. It differs from surgical laser, which cuts by heating tissue, and from high-intensity laser therapy, which uses far more power and works partly by heating.

The recurring problem in the evidence is dose: it varies widely and is often incompletely reported. Inadequate dosing is one possible explanation for negative trials, but it cannot be assumed. This page covers the mechanism, dose, evidence and safety.