Photobiomodulation Therapy
Everything you need to understand what photobiomodulation therapy is, how it works, and why it matters.
Understanding Photobiomodulation Therapy
Light does more than let us see. It powers life at the cellular level. Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) uses red and near-infrared light to boost your body’s natural healing process. This helps restore movement, ease pain, and reduce inflammation without medication or downtime.
Originally developed through NASA research, PBM has evolved into a trusted therapy for medical and wellness professionals. Clinics use it to relieve pain and accelerate recovery. Athletes use it to perform and heal faster. Innovators like Aspen are pushing the technology forward, helping more people through light-based healing.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what PBM therapy is, how it works at the cellular level, its proven benefits, and how Aspen’s advanced devices bring this science to life.
Photobiomodulation Therapy at a Glance:
- Mechanism: Uses red and near-infrared light (600–1070 nm) to stimulate cellular repair
- Key Benefits: Reduces inflammation, relieves pain, accelerates recovery, improves circulation, and supports cellular repair
- Proven Research:Backed by 50 years of research and over 1,000 peer-reviewed clinical trials
- Safety:Non-invasive, drug-free, and FDA-cleared for pain relief and tissue healing
- Who Uses It: Physical therapists, chiropractors, sports medicine experts, wellness centers, and athletes worldwide.
What is Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBM)?
Definition of Photobiomodulation Therapy:
Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) is a form of light therapy that uses red and near-infrared wavelengths of light. It’s completely non-invasive, drug-free, supported by decades of clinical research, and has no known negative side effects.
Photobiomodulation might sound complex, but it’s all about using light to create change within the body.
PBMT uses concentrated red and near-infrared light to target mitochondria, the parts of your cells that produce energy. When these light wavelengths reach the mitochondria, they help the cells make more adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the body’s main source of energy.
This increase in energy allows cells to repair damage, reduce inflammation, and grow new healthy tissue more efficiently by producing a photochemical response in the cell and tissue. In areas where cells are injured or stressed, PBMT helps restore normal function and supports the body’s natural healing process from the inside out.
At its core, photobiomodulation is about cellular energy.
The FDA has approved the following intended uses for Photobiomodulation:
- Decrease inflammation
- Increase blood flow
- Restoration of motion to joints
- Temporary relief from pain and inflammation, including chronic conditions
- Temporary relief from pain and inflammation associated with arthritis
- Hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia
- Adjunct to obesity
What is Photobiomodulation (Light Therapy)?
What Does “PBM” Stand For?
PBM is short for Photobiomodulation, which breaks down into:
- Photo = Light
- Bio = Life
- Modulation = Change or influence
In short, it means “using light to influence biological function.” You’ll also see it as PBMT, which stands for photobiomodulation therapy.
Common Terms You’ll Hear
Photobiomodulation Therapy is often called by different names (simply due to the fact that technology has evolved across industries and decades):
- Red Light Therapy: A General consumer term for visible red-wavelength PBM
- Near-Infrared (NIR) Therapy: Focuses on deeper-penetrating invisible light
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): The original research term still used in scientific literature (also sometimes called Low-Level Light Therapy)
- Class IV Laser: The highest power of lasers that can reach deeper into the body than class 1, 2, or 3B lasers and thereby reach deeper targets with more energy
- Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT): The modern, science-backed term preferred by researchers and FDA documentation
While the names vary, all refer to the same underlying process: using light to activate the body’s natural healing potential.
How Does Photobiomodulation Therapy Work?
Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) works by turning light energy into cellular energy.
PBMT is grounded in decades of research in cellular biology and biophysics. Its principle is simple: light energy stimulates biological energy. When red and near-infrared wavelengths reach the body’s tissues, their photons are absorbed by a photoacceptor enzyme in the mitochondria called cytochrome c oxidase (CCO). This interaction displaces nitric oxide (NO) (a molecule that can block normal respiration in stressed cells) and restores the cell’s ability to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP) efficiently. The binding of nitric oxide with oxygen presents two problems. First, oxygen is bound from entering the mitochondria, so ATP production slows down. This means cell functions slow down. Second, the binding of nitric oxide and oxygen is known as a free radical. Free radicals are the gene expression of every disease. Free radicals are, in fact, inflammation. So, light therapy actually kicks inflammation out of the cell as the blood vessel walls absorb the free radical, oxygen rushes back into the mitochondria, ATP product skyrockets, and the cell returns to homeostasis, or normal function and normal rate of repair.
Unlike injections and prescriptions, which often mask the symptoms and do little to treat the injury, PBMT delivers energy to damaged cells. This biochemical increase in energy helps to transform cells from a state of dysfunction to a stable, healthy state. This results in reduced inflammation, increased blood flow, and the stimulation of tissue growth. PBMT also activates immunomodulation, or the body’s own healing processes.
PBMT is not thermal (it has a gentle warmth). It activates, making it safe and repeatable for clinical and performance settings.
The result: cells regain energy, oxygenation improves, oxidative stress decreases, and normal cellular communication resumes. These changes fuel a measurable rise in tissue repair and regeneration.
The underlying biology of PBMT has been studied for over five decades, with consistent findings across thousands of lab and clinical studies. (Learn more in the next section: Clinical Research on PBM Therapy)
How PBMT Achieves Measurable Results
Below are five ways photobiomodulation therapy achieves measurable results:
- Photochemical Response:
Increases ATP production through mitochondrial stimulation (cytochrome c oxidase). - Anti-Inflammatory Effect:
Decreases oxidative stress and modulates cytokine activity. - Analgesic Mechanism:
Reduces bradykinin levels, increases endorphin release, and normalizes nerve conduction. - Vascular Impact:
Enhances angiogenesis and lymphatic drainage for improved circulation. - Regenerative Function:
Stimulates fibroblast, chondrocyte, and osteocyte activity to rebuild tissue and bone.
Clinical Research on Photobiomodulation Therapy
Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) is one of the most extensively researched light-based treatments in medicine. Over the past 50 years, scientists and clinicians have published 5,000+ laboratory studies and 500+ randomized, double-blind controlled trials validating PBMT’s safety and effectiveness.
Aspen’s Founder, Charles Vorwaller, has been at the center of this extensive research. Utilization of the 1064 nm Wavelength in Photobiomodulation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35155171/
Key Findings in Clinical Research:
- Pain & Inflammation: PBMT decreases inflammatory mediators and modulates bradykinin and endorphin release for lasting pain relief.
- Tissue Repair & Regeneration: Enhances fibroblast, collagen, and chondrocyte activity, accelerating wound, muscle, and bone healing.
- Neurological Function: Promotes nerve regeneration and improved conduction, supporting recovery from neuropathic pain and injury.
- Circulation & Vascular Health: Increases angiogenesis and lymphatic drainage, improving oxygenation and waste removal.
Clinical Applications Supported by Research:
- Arthritis and musculoskeletal pain
- Tendinopathies and soft tissue injuries
- Nerve damage and regeneration
- Sports recovery and performance optimization
- Skin rejuvenation and scar reduction
Evidence Highlights:
- Studies published in The Lancet, Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, and Lasers in Medical Science report significant improvements in pain reduction and tissue recovery.
- In a review of over 60 randomized controlled trials, PBMT was found to produce a 30–50% reduction in pain intensity across musculoskeletal conditions.
- Aspen’s proprietary systems have been engineered with the same clinically validated wavelengths and power parameters used in these studies.
The evidence is clear: PBMT is a proven, safe, and repeatable therapy. It enhances healing, reduces inflammation, and improves outcomes across medical, wellness, and performance applications.
The Science of Photobiomodulation Therapy (Laser Therapy)
Transcript
In 1917, Albert Einstein first explained the theory of stimulated emission, which later became the basis for laser technology. Throughout the 1940s and 50s, scientists and engineers worked to create a practical device based on Einstein’s principle, and in 1960 the first laser was developed.
By the end of that decade, a Hungarian physician, Andre Mester, reported accelerated wound healing through non-ablative low-level laser radiation. He is credited with discovering low-level laser therapy. Today, this therapy is known as photobiomodulation—photo meaning “light,” bio meaning “life,” and modulation meaning “change.” It is a preferred therapeutic option because it is drug-free, non-invasive, non-toxic, and has no side effects. It treats the underlying cause of injury and pain, not just the symptoms.
However, not all lasers are created equal. Achieving therapeutic effects requires a deep understanding of laser science—specifically, how light interacts with tissue. These principles vary widely and are often debated.
Laser science begins by looking at how light interacts with the human body to create a therapeutic response. All light is made of photons—small packets of light energy. These photons penetrate the skin and underlying structures, retaining their intensity until absorbed by the body.
In laser therapy:
Laser light at specific wavelengths—primarily in the infrared and visible spectrum between 700 and 1200 nm—is delivered to the tissue using a probe in contact with the skin.
The light enters the cell’s mitochondria and is absorbed by chromophores, including the protein cytochrome-c oxidase (CCO), increasing its activity.
As activity increases, three key molecules are affected:
ATP (adenosine triphosphate) increases, providing more cellular energy.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) activate transcription factors that support repair and healing.
Nitric oxide (NO) increases circulation, reduces inflammation, and enhances oxygen and immune-cell transport.
Together, these effects result in reduced pain, reduced inflammation, increased range of motion, and accelerated healing—improving cellular health and energy.
To achieve predictable results, photobiomodulation relies on four key parameters of laser technology:
1. Type of Light
Therapeutic laser light differs from ordinary light in three ways:
Collimated – focused in one direction, unlike scattered ordinary light.
Monochromatic – a single wavelength, allowing targeted tissue interaction.
Coherent – a tight, concentrated beam, unlike diffused ordinary light.
2. Wavelength
Absorption requires the correct wavelength. When light hits tissue, it may be reflected, scattered, absorbed, or transmitted. The wrong wavelength results in scattering or transmission rather than absorption. Generally, longer wavelengths in the infrared spectrum penetrate deeper into tissue.
3. Operating Mode
Lasers may operate in:
Continuous wave, or
Pulsed mode
Operating mode affects dosage. Continuous wave energy is easy to calculate, while pulsed or frequency-modulated light complicates dosage measurement and may lead to inaccurate claims.
4. Power / Energy Density
Power level determines how much energy reaches tissue. Laser energy is measured in joules and calculated by multiplying treatment time by power. Importantly, you cannot compensate for low power simply by increasing treatment time. What matters is the number of joules that reach the target tissue, not just the amount emitted.
The FDA classifies lasers from Class 1 to Class 4 based on power and safety.
Class 1 – laser printers
Class 2 – barcode scanners
Class 3a – laser pointers
Class 3b – small therapeutic lasers
Class 4 – higher-powered therapy lasers
Lasers used for photobiomodulation were originally Class 3 (5–500 milliwatts) when first cleared by the FDA in 2002. Today, many are Class 4, with power levels above 500 milliwatts. With proper training, all classes—including Class 4—are safe.
Laser systems that combine the correct type of light, wavelength, operating mode, and power output can deliver the penetration and dosage necessary to reach targeted tissues. The result is a beneficial cascade of chemical reactions that support the body’s natural healing ability.
Benefits of Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBM)
Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBM) offers a wide spectrum of clinically proven benefits that extend from pain relief to performance enhancement and overall wellness. Because PBM works at the cellular level – restoring energy, circulation, and balance – it impacts nearly every major system in the body.
The benefits of Photobiomodulation Therapy are consistent: faster healing, reduced inflammation, and improved function.
1. Pain Relief
Pain is one of the most common reasons people seek PBM, and one of the areas with the most research support. By stimulating the mitochondria to increase ATP production, PBM interrupts the pain cycle at its source rather than masking it with medication.
PBM also promotes the release of endorphins, reduces the accumulation of pain-inducing chemicals like bradykinin, and calms overactive nerves. The result is substantial, longer-lasting pain reduction for both acute and chronic conditions.
Clinically Supported Benefits:
- Reduces inflammation and swelling around joints and soft tissues
- Alleviates neuropathic, musculoskeletal, and arthritic pain
- Decreases nerve hypersensitivity and accelerates recovery after surgery or injury
Best for: Neck and back pain, arthritis, tendon and ligament injuries, post-operative pain, nerve damage
2. Injury Recovery and Tissue Repair
When injury occurs, cells lose energy, circulation slows, and inflammation rises, making it harder for the body to heal. PBM directly reverses this process by energizing damaged cells, improving microcirculation, and stimulating fibroblast and collagen activity.
This accelerates tissue repair while reducing scar formation, allowing the body to heal faster and more completely.
Clinically Supported Benefits:
- Accelerates wound, muscle, tendon, and bone healing
- Reduces scar tissue formation after surgery or overuse
- Enhances angiogenesis (new blood vessel growth) and oxygen delivery
Best for: Sprains, strains, tendon injuries, post-surgical recovery, bone and cartilage repair
3. Muscle Performance and Recovery
For athletes and active individuals, PBM has become a trusted recovery tool. Research shows it helps reduce oxidative stress, clear lactic acid, and limit muscle fatigue by improving circulation and mitochondrial efficiency.
PBM also boosts ATP availability within muscle cells, helping them perform longer and recover faster after exertion.
Clinically Supported Benefits:
- Reduces delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS)
- Improves muscle strength and endurance
- Speeds recovery between workouts or competitions
- Lowers inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, creatine kinase)
Best for: Sports performance, post-exercise recovery, training recovery programs
Cognitive and Skin Health
Beyond physical recovery, PBM supports neurological and dermatological health through improved cellular metabolism and circulation.
Cognitive Health:
PBM has shown promise in stimulating blood flow and oxygenation in the brain, improving cognitive performance, focus, and mood. It supports neuronal regeneration, which may aid in recovery from concussion, neuropathy, or neurodegenerative conditions.
Research Study:
Treatments For Traumatic Brain Injury With Emphasis On Transcranial Near-Infrared Laser Phototherapy
Read MoreResearch Study:
39 Patients With Depression, Parkinson, Brain-Injury Laser Treatment Studies
Read MoreResearch Study:
Near-Infrared Photonic Energy Penetration: Can Infrared Phototherapy Effectively Reach The Human Brain?
Read MoreResearch Study:
Multi-Watt Near-Infrared Light Therapy As A Neuroregenerative Treatment For Traumatic Brain Injury
Read MoreSkin Health: PBM stimulates collagen production, improves elasticity, and accelerates wound and scar healing by activating fibroblasts and reducing oxidative stress in skin cells. These effects contribute to a clearer, healthier complexion and faster post-procedure recovery.
Clinically Supported Benefits:
- Supports nerve regeneration and brain function
- Improves sleep, energy, and mental clarity
- Enhances skin tone, elasticity, and healing
- Reduces the appearance of scars and blemishes
Best for: Concussion recovery, neuropathy, cognitive support, scar and wound care, skin rejuvenation treatments
The Whole-Body Advantage
Whether used in a clinical setting or integrated into wellness and athletic programs, PBM delivers a whole-body benefit through pain reduction, faster recovery, better performance, and improved vitality.
Aspen’s advanced systems, featuring precisely calibrated wavelengths and power settings, ensure that these benefits are delivered safely, efficiently, and consistently. Our products help practitioners and patients alike truly feel the science.
Applications of PBM
Because photobiomodulation works at the cellular level, its applications extend across medical, wellness, and performance settings. Whether used by physicians, physical therapists, chiropractors, or athletes, PBM enhances recovery, reduces inflammation, and optimizes body function both naturally and non-invasively.
“From weekend warriors to world-class athletes, PBM enhances recovery by promoting tissue regeneration and reducing oxidative stress.”
1. Medical and Rehabilitation
In clinical settings, PBM has become a trusted adjunct to traditional rehabilitation therapies. Its ability to reduce inflammation, increase circulation, and stimulate tissue regeneration makes it a powerful tool for speeding recovery and improving patient outcomes.
Common Clinical Applications:
- Musculoskeletal Injuries: Sprains, strains, tendinopathies, and soft tissue tears
- Post-Surgical Recovery: Reduces inflammation, pain, and scar tissue formation
- Arthritis and Joint Disorders: Improves mobility and decreases pain in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Neuropathic Pain: Promotes nerve regeneration and reduces nerve hypersensitivity
- Chronic Conditions: Aids in the management of chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain
Clinical Benefit: PBM integrates seamlessly with physical therapy, chiropractic, and orthopedic protocols to restore function faster and reduce reliance on pain medication.
2. Performance and Recovery
In sports medicine and performance centers, PBM has become a cornerstone of athletic recovery. It helps athletes perform at their peak by improving energy production within muscle cells, accelerating recovery between training sessions, and reducing injury downtime.
Key Uses:
- Pre-Workout: Prepares muscles and joints by enhancing oxygenation and circulation
- Post-Workout: Clears lactic acid, reduces inflammation, and shortens recovery time
- Injury Prevention: Strengthens tissues and increases resilience to strain
- Rehabilitation: Speeds healing after strains, tendon injuries, and surgical repairs
Performance Benefit: PBM gives athletes a competitive recovery edge, helping them train harder, recover faster, and sustain long-term performance.
Sports Teams Using Aspen Products:
| TheraLight Sports Teams | League |
|---|---|
| Clemson University | NCAAF |
| Denver Broncos | NFL |
| West Virginia University | NCAAF |
| Philadelphia Union | MLS |
| Texas Christian University | NCAA |
| Louisiana State University | NCAAF |
| Hendrick MotorSports | NASCAR |
| Nashville Predators | NHL |
| Kansas City Royals | MLB |
| UFC Training Center | UFC |
| Texas Rangers | MLB |
| Brigham Young University | NCAAF |
| Arizona Diamondbacks | MLB |
| Toronto Blue Jays | MLB |
| St. Louis Cardinals | MLB |
| University of Oklahoma | NCAAF |
| New Orleans Pelicans | NBA |
| University of Tennessee | NCAAF |
| Florida Athletic University | NCAAF |
| Jacksonville Jaguars | NFL |
| Aspen Laser Sports Team | League |
|---|---|
| Detroit Pistons | NBA |
| St. Louis Blues | NHL |
| Michigan State University | NCAAF |
| University of Detroit | NCAAB |
| University of Missouri | NCAAF |
| Brigham Young University | NCAAF |
| Rice University | NCAAF |
| Ball State University | NCAAF |
| Miami FC | MLB |
| University of Central Oklahoma | Research |
| Arkansas State University | NCAAF |
| Virginia Commonwealth | NCAAB |
| Contra Costa College | Research |
| St. Petersburg College | Research |
| Chicago Cubs | MLB |
How Red Light Therapy Boosts Athletic Performance
Read More3. Wellness and Anti-Aging
PBM is increasingly used in wellness, integrative health, and aesthetic medicine for its ability to promote systemic balance and cellular vitality. By improving mitochondrial efficiency, circulation, and collagen production, PBM supports whole-body rejuvenation, from skin health to mood and energy.
Wellness and Aesthetic Applications:
- Skin Health: Stimulates collagen and elastin for improved tone and texture
- Circulation: Enhances blood flow and lymphatic drainage for detoxification and vitality
- Mood and Sleep: Supports cognitive health, circadian rhythm, and emotional balance
- Immune Function: Boosts lymphocyte activity and reduces oxidative stress
- Longevity: Supports mitochondrial function and cellular resilience
Wellness Benefit: PBM provides a science-backed approach to anti-aging and vitality, restoring balance from the inside out — with visible and measurable results.
4. Home Use and Personal Recovery
Advances in PBM technology have made professional-grade light therapy accessible beyond the clinic. Devices designed for home use, such as TheraLight full-body red light therapy beds or portable units, allow users to experience the benefits of photobiomodulation safely and conveniently.
Common Home Applications:
- Daily muscle and joint pain relief
- Faster recovery after exercise
- Enhanced sleep and energy levels
- Improved skin appearance and wound healing
Personal Benefit: Whether used as part of a wellness routine or alongside professional care, home PBM systems extend the healing benefits of light therapy into everyday life, making consistent recovery part of modern self-care.
Photobiomodulation Therapy for Self Care
Read MoreThe Common Thread: Better Circulation, Faster Healing, Less Pain
From medical clinics to wellness centers and home environments, the impact of PBM is universal. With PBMT, cells can heal faster, inflammation decreases, and function is restored. Aspen’s advanced laser and light systems make these outcomes accessible across every level of care, enabling professionals and individuals alike to feel the science and live with less pain.
Is Photobiomodulation Therapy Safe? (FDA-Approved Uses)
Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBM) is clinically proven, FDA-cleared, and globally recognized as a safe, non-invasive therapy for pain relief and tissue healing.
Unlike thermal or ablative laser procedures, PBM uses low-level, non-ionizing light that stimulates biological repair without burning, cutting, or damaging tissue.
When administered properly with calibrated medical-grade systems like Aspen’s, PBM is one of the safest therapeutic modalities available in modern medicine.
FDA Clearance and Regulatory Standards
PBM has undergone decades of testing and regulatory review, culminating in multiple FDA clearances for specific therapeutic uses. Aspen’s devices are FDA-cleared for pain relief, inflammation reduction, and improved circulation in both superficial and deep tissues.
These clearances are based on clinical data demonstrating PBM’s safety and efficacy for conditions such as:
- Musculoskeletal pain and stiffness
- Arthritis and joint disorders
- Muscle spasms and soft tissue injuries
- Localized circulation improvement
- Restoration of motion to joints
- Reduce inflammation
- Adjunct to obesity
Aspen’s technology meets or exceeds rigorous IEC 60601 safety standards for laser medical devices and adheres to precise dosage parameters proven effective in peer-reviewed research.
Each Aspen system is engineered with:
- Tightly controlled wavelengths (red and near-infrared) for safe, targeted energy delivery
- Automatic calibration systems to prevent overexposure
- Dose-specific treatment protocols ensuring consistent, repeatable outcomes for each individual patient (instead of a “one-size fits all” approach)
These safeguards make Aspen’s PBM systems both clinically reliable and operator-safe, even in high-volume professional environments.
Who Can Use PBM Professionally?
PBM therapy can be administered safely by a wide range of healthcare and wellness professionals trained in laser therapy protocols.
Typical professional users include:
- Physical Therapists & Chiropractors: Integrating PBM into rehab and musculoskeletal recovery plans
- Medical Doctors (MDs & DOs): Using PBM for pain management and adjunctive treatment
- Sports Medicine & Performance Specialists: Supporting athlete recovery and injury prevention
- Naturopathic & Integrative Health Practitioners: Combining PBM with holistic wellness care
- Wellness & Recovery Centers: Offering full-body systems for preventive and restorative care
- Spa & Aestheticians: Skin health and beauty
Aspen provides comprehensive clinical training and certification for all professional users, ensuring safe operation, correct dosimetry, and optimal patient outcomes.
How PBM Compares to Other Recovery Tools
As light-based and recovery technologies have grown more common, it’s easy to confuse photobiomodulation with other modalities like cryotherapy, infrared saunas, or even electrical stimulation (TENS).
Not all light therapies are the same.
While each offers benefits, only PBM combines deep tissue penetration, cellular energy activation, and clinically proven therapeutic outcomes without heat, discomfort, or surface-level limitations.
| Therapy | Wavelength | How it Works | Purpose | Heating Effect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Photobiomodulation (PBM) | Red & Near-Infrared (600–1070 nm) | Stimulates mitochondria to boost ATP, reduce inflammation | Encourage healing, recovery, pain relief | X Non-thermal |
| Surgical/Aesthetic Laser Therapy | Variable | Tissue ablation / cosmetic resurfacing | Cosmetic or surgical | Thermal |
| Infrared Sauna | Mid-Infrared | Induces sweating via heat | Detoxification, relaxation | Thermal |
| Blue Light Therapy | Blue wavelengths (~405–470 nm) | Destroys bacteria | Dermatology, acne | X Non-thermal |
| Cryotherapy | No specific wavelength (uses extreme cold, typically −100°C to −140°C) | Cold exposure: vasoconstriction | Inflammation and soreness reduction | Thermal (cold) |
| TENS / Electrical Stimulation | Electrical pulses (no light wavelength) | Sends low-voltage electrical currents through the skin to block pain signals and stimulate nerves | Pain interruption via nerve desensitization | X Non-Thermal |
Key takeaway: PBM stands apart because it activates the body’s natural healing processes without heat, discomfort, or tissue damage, a biological repair mechanism, not a cosmetic or sensory one.
Cryotherapy vs Photobiomodulation Therapy: Purpose, Differences, and Efficacy
Read MorePhotobiomodulation Therapy vs Red Light Therapy
Photobiomodulation therapy and red light therapy are often used interchangeably, because red light therapy IS photobiomodulation therapy.
However, red light therapy and near infrared (NIR) therapy have a distinction when it comes to depth, precision, and intent. Red light therapy focuses primarily on visible wavelengths (around 630-66 nm), which interact with surface-lvel cells and skin tissue. NIR expands that range into near-infrared light (up to 1070 nm), reaching muscles, joints, and nerves to trigger a systematic biological response.
Think of it like this: red light supports the outer layer of wellness while near infrared works at the core of cellular metabolism, improving things like circulation.
In short, all red light therapy and near-infrared therapy are photobiomodulation, but not all PBMT stops at red light.
True PBMT is clinical-grade, wavelength-precise, and dose-controlled, designed to create measurable change deep within the body, not just on its surface.
Is Photobiomodulation Therapy the Same as Red Light Therapy?
Read MorePhotobiomodulation Devices: Laser, LED, and Whole-Body Systems
As PBM becomes more widely adopted, choosing the right device can feel overwhelming. The market includes everything from small LED panels to high-power clinical lasers and full-body light beds. The right system depends on your goals, your setting, and how deeply you need the light to penetrate.
Below is a breakdown of the main device categories and how they differ so you can make an informed choice.
Laser vs. LED Devices
Lasers and LEDs both deliver therapeutic light, but they differ in precision, power, and depth. Below is a table that covers the differences in laser devices and LED devices. Think of laser and LED as two sides of the same coin. A laser could be considered an inch wide and a mile deep, while an LED whole body could be considered a mile wide and an inch deep. They are symbiotic, and both are vital to health. Laser is a spot change on a specific part. Whole body LED is a systemic change covering all systems in the entire body.
Key takeaway:
Lasers provide precision and depth, ideal for musculoskeletal and neurological issues. LEDs provide coverage and comfort, excellent for wellness and skin applications. Many modern PBM providers now use hybrid systems that blend both technologies.
| Feature | Laser Devices | LED Devices |
|---|---|---|
| Light Type | Coherent (focused beam) | Non-coherent (diffused light) |
| Power Output | Higher (watts) | Lower (milliwatts) |
| Penetration Depth | Deep tissue (up to several cm) | Shallow (surface and near-surface) |
| Treatment Area | Targeted | Broad/Full Body |
| Typical Use | Clinical, medical, or rehab settings | Wellness, spa, or home use |
| Results | Faster response, shorter treatment time | Longer sessions, cumulative benefit |
| Example Applications | Joint pain, neuropathy, post-injury rehab | Skin health, circulation, mood, recovery, sports performance |
Class IV vs. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
When researching PBM, you’ll often see references to Class IV or low-level lasers. These categories refer to power output and safety classification, not to different types of therapy.
Key takeaway:
Both Class IV and LLLT devices use photobiomodulation, but the difference lies in power and efficiency. Class IV lasers can treat larger areas faster and reach deeper tissue layers, while LLLT devices simply don’t have the ability to reach the same depths with the same dosage.
Laser vs. Photobiomodulation Therapy: What’s the Difference?
Read MoreWhole-Body vs. Localized Systems
Another decision point is whether to treat the whole body or focus on specific areas. Each serves a different purpose and audience. Whole-body PBM promotes systemic benefits like improved circulation and recovery, while localized PBM targets specific pain points or injuries. Many facilities use both: a whole-body bed for daily maintenance and a handheld or clinical laser for focused treatment.
| Feature | Whole-Body PBM Systems | Localized PBM Devices |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Full-body exposure (thousands of LEDs) | Focused on a single region |
| Session Duration | 15-20 minutes | 2-10 minutes per area |
| Primary Use | Wellness, recovery lounges, anti-aging, systemic inflammation | Pain relief, injury recovery, clinical rehabilitation |
| Environment | Wellness centers, recovery clinics, home use | Medical and sports rehab clinics |
| Outcome | General energy, circulation, sleep, mood | Precise healing and pain reduction |
Choosing the Right PBM System
When evaluating devices to choose the right PBM system, consider:
- Depth of target tissue (muscle vs. skin)
- Treatment goals (recovery, pain, wellness, aesthetic)
- Power and wavelength options
- Safety certifications and FDA clearance
- Ease of use and training
Key Takeaway:
Understanding the differences between laser, LED, Class IV, LLLT, and full-body PBM systems helps you match the right technology to your goals. Every form of PBM uses the same science (light-activated cellular healing) but the device type determines depth, speed, and scope of results.
Aspen’s Approach to PBM
At Aspen, photobiomodulation isn’t just technology. It’s a commitment to helping people recover faster, perform better, and live with less pain. For more than a decade, Aspen has been advancing PBM science through innovation, clinical research, and professional training, ensuring every system delivers measurable, consistent results.
Every Aspen device, from the compact Ascent and Apex lasers to the full-body TheraLight FIT, 360 and 360i red light therapy beds, is built to deliver accurate wavelength, power, and dose at the cellular level. This precision is what turns PBM from a trending wellness concept into a clinically reliable therapy trusted by thousands of professionals worldwide.
Key Differentiators:
- Multi-Wavelength Technology: Aspen’s lasers combine red and near-infrared light (635–1064 nm) to target both surface and deep tissues simultaneously. Aspen also has the ability to run each wavelength concurrently and control each wavelength individually.
- High-Power Efficiency: Class IV output enables faster treatment times and deeper penetration without heat or damage. While most class IV lasers generate an enormous amount of heat, Aspen lasers generate minimal heat and can treat every indication directly on the skin surface. This allows deeper penetration and more energy delivered deeper into the body.
- Consistent Dosing: Calibrated software ensures every treatment delivers optimal energy density for reliable, reproducible results. Aspen may be the only class IV laser in the world that does not rely on preset protocols. Instead, each treatment provides a dose appropriate treatment, not only for the unique person being treated, but for that dosage to change over time as the person transitions between the states of healing. This means the dosage can decrease as the body heals, which avoids the overtreatment/overdose problems of most therapeutic lasers.
- Non-Thermal and Safe: No burning, cutting, or side effects, just biological repair through light.
Aspen Photobiomodulation Devices
From clinic to home, Aspen offers a full continuum of PBM systems designed for different environments and needs.
| System Type | Devices | Best For | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional Class IV Lasers | Apex • Ascent • Summit | Rehab, medical, chiropractic clinics | Deep-tissue healing and pain relief |
| Whole-Body Red Light Therapy Beds | TheraLight 360i TheraLight 360 TheraLight FIT | Wellness, recovery, athletic performance | Systemic recovery and anti-inflammatory benefits |
| Portable Red Light Therapy Devices | TheraGo T4 | At-home recovery and maintenance | Daily wellness and localized relief |
Introducing Lucium: Optical Cleared Laser Therapy Re-Imagined
Coming soon from the innovators behind Aspen, Lucium deploys a patented optical-clearing technology that optimizes light-tissue interaction for enhanced penetration and greater therapeutic effect. By temporarily matching the skin’s refractive index, Lucium’s topical-plus-laser approach reduces surface scatter, letting more focused light reach deeper tissues at the correct dosage.
- Patent-pending “laser with topical” system: first of its kind.
- Enhances light delivery for improved outcomes.
- Launching a full-body topical for LED/bed systems in January 2026.
- Eliminates the issues with darker melanin and allows light to transfer efficiently through all skin types.
- Allows treatment directly on tattoos, which normally would be prohibitive with an on-skin laser.
- Improves results and cuts down treatment times.
See the Results of Photobiomodulation in Action
Light therapy is no longer just “promising.” It’s producing real outcomes for clinics, athletes, and wellness centers. Now, you can experience those results with precision and scale.
Dr Andrew Oteo Aspen Apex Laser Testimonial
Transcript
We initially brought it in because we felt there was more we could do within our practice. We were seeing patients with issues like plantar fasciitis and shoulder problems, and we just weren’t getting the results we wanted with our previous tools. I have a lot of gadgets in my office, and even with having a Class 3B laser, we had never seen the level of results that this laser offered. It was incredible.
I did a demo day with Mark — he came out, and we went through the whole process treating patients in our office. It was patient after patient with jaws dropping because they had never seen those kinds of results in our practice before. That’s what really showed me this was something special and something that would be very useful for our clinic.
Already, even after just a month, the ROI has been impressive. I always worry about how equipment will impact our bottom line and help our business grow, but without a doubt, this laser has already done that. It’s not something you have to “sell.” Patients experience the results, and they choose to continue with it. It has been one of the easiest things we’ve ever implemented.
To be honest, I dragged my feet at first because I wasn’t sure if it was the right time to invest in something like this. But this has been, by far, the best and fastest ROI of any piece of equipment we’ve brought into the office.
If you’re thinking about bringing in the Apex Laser, in my opinion, there’s nothing to think about. Schedule a demo day, line up your most difficult patients, treat them, and see the results for yourself. Right after that, you’ll likely have a lineup of patients wanting to continue care. That’s really the only “problem” you’ll have from the demo day.
We’re very happy and very pleased with our decision to bring in this laser, and it has been an incredible addition to our practice. Thank you again.
Aspen Laser @ Zenith Injury Relief (TX)
Transcript
Hey there, it’s Dr. Gil with Zenith Injury Relief and Wellness Clinic. Today I wanted to talk to you about different pains and aches that I’ve been seeing in the office — from neck pain to back pain, knee pain, and lower-back pain that’s preventing people from doing the things they love, like golfing, playing with their kids, taking vacations, or even taking a stroll around the block. I also wanted to introduce one of our advanced technologies.
Aspen Laser
I have the Aspen laser here, and I’m going to be demonstrating it today. It is an FDA-approved laser with many therapeutic benefits. It promotes deep self-healing, increases circulation, and supports lymphatic drainage. Most treatments are anywhere from five to ten minutes, depending on the muscle group or body part being addressed.
Treatment
For acute injuries — things like new aches, trips, or falls — we typically recommend six treatment sessions. For chronic issues, about ten treatment sessions is standard. What I’ve seen with patients is increased range of motion and decreased pain with every single visit, with each session building on the previous one to create a more long-term solution.
Conclusion
All you have to do is schedule an appointment with me to see if you’re a candidate. That includes a complete orthopedic and neurological examination, x-rays if needed, and a review of any previous MRIs, imaging, or doctor visit notes. If you’re in pain, or know anybody who is, I encourage you to click the link below. I hope to see you in the office. Thank you for watching.
Dr Tennant Slack Talks about Photobiomodulation
Transcript
It became clear very early in my interventional pain practice that I needed more tools. The insurance-covered arena, as helpful as it is, has limitations in terms of the variety of treatments available for difficult problems. As my practice evolved, it became even more apparent that I wanted to expand into everything the field could offer. Eventually, I was able to create a separate entity called Innovation MD, which focuses on what I consider the best regenerative and pro-healing methodologies.
A critical component of that is photobiomodulation. It’s beyond dispute that wavelengths in the near-infrared range can stimulate biological tissue in favorable ways. It’s complex, and I don’t think we fully understand all the cascades that are initiated, but the bottom line is that the clinical results are undeniable.
We have incorporated two different infrared devices: one is a focused handheld device, and the other is a total-body bed-type device. We often use these in conjunction with other therapies so that we can offer a comprehensive approach. The specifics depend heavily on the patient, their clinical presentation, and the characteristics of their medical conditions. Overall, we’ve found this to be a critical component in our multimodal approach to pain and wellness.
Jake Paul Explains Red Light Therapy (TheraLight)
Transcript
Twenty minutes a day in this, and I absolutely love this machine.
All right, here we go.
All done — 20 minutes.
There’s a difference between infrared light and red light. Infrared light is for burning fat and heats you from the inside. Red light is for energy and inflammation. Know the difference.
Explore our advanced systems to see how practitioners are helping patients recover faster, move better, and live with less pain.
“Thank you for the great service… Patients love it and the limited follow-ups we’ve seen are a testament to its success. We may have a waiting list for therapy for the first time in a long time.”
The Future of Light-Based Healing
The science of light is evolving and photobiomodulation (PBM) is at the forefront of a new era in medicine, recovery, and wellness. As research continues, we’re learning just how deeply light influences human biology, not just in pain and injury recovery, but across the brain, immune system, and entire metabolic network.
PBM has moved far beyond its early days as “low-level laser therapy.” Today, it represents a growing field of biophotonics using light energy to target cellular mechanisms with incredible accuracy.
Neurological and Cognitive Applications
Emerging studies show PBM’s potential to improve brain health, mood, and cognitive performance. By increasing oxygenation, reducing inflammation, and promoting mitochondrial function within neurons, PBM may play a supportive role in:
- Concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI) recovery
- Neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease
- Cognitive performance and focus enhancement
- Stress reduction and sleep regulation
Transcranial PBM, a specialized form of light therapy aimed at the head and neck, is now being explored for its neuroprotective and mood-stabilizing effects — further proof of light’s systemic impact on the human body.
Whole-Body Recovery and Performance Optimization
The next generation of PBM devices goes beyond targeted pain relief. Full-body systems are redefining how athletes, clinics, and wellness centers approach recovery and regeneration. By exposing the entire body to therapeutic wavelengths, PBM enhances circulation, balances inflammation, and supports systemic energy production.
Early adopters — from sports teams to integrated wellness centers — are already using whole-body PBM to:
- Accelerate recovery after intense training
- Boost endurance and muscular performance
- Regulate inflammation for faster tissue repair
- Improve sleep quality and energy levels
As accessibility improves, these systems are becoming a cornerstone of both preventive medicine and performance-based care.
Sports Teams Using Aspen Products:
| TheraLight Sports Teams | League |
|---|---|
| Clemson University | NCAAF |
| Denver Broncos | NFL |
| West Virginia University | NCAAF |
| Philadelphia Union | MLS |
| Texas Christian University | NCAA |
| Louisiana State University | NCAAF |
| Hendrick MotorSports | NASCAR |
| Nashville Predators | NHL |
| Kansas City Royals | MLB |
| UFC Training Center | UFC |
| Texas Rangers | MLB |
| Brigham Young University | NCAAF |
| Arizona Diamondbacks | MLB |
| Toronto Blue Jays | MLB |
| St. Louis Cardinals | MLB |
| University of Oklahoma | NCAAF |
| New Orleans Pelicans | NBA |
| University of Tennessee | NCAAF |
| Florida Athletic University | NCAAF |
| Jacksonville Jaguars | NFL |
| Aspen Laser Sports Team | League |
|---|---|
| Detroit Pistons | NBA |
| St. Louis Blues | NHL |
| Michigan State University | NCAAF |
| University of Detroit | NCAAB |
| University of Missouri | NCAAF |
| Brigham Young University | NCAAF |
| Rice University | NCAAF |
| Ball State University | NCAAF |
| Miami FC | MLB |
| University of Central Oklahoma | Research |
| Arkansas State University | NCAAF |
| Virginia Commonwealth | NCAAB |
| Contra Costa College | Research |
| St. Petersburg College | Research |
| Chicago Cubs | MLB |
AI, Personalization, and Data-Driven Dosing
With advances in wearable sensors and AI-assisted calibration, PBM is moving toward personalized light therapy. Future systems will automatically adjust wavelength, dose, and duration based on:
- Tissue depth and body composition
- Blood oxygenation or inflammation markers
- Individual response patterns over time
This level of personalization ensures every session delivers optimal biological stimulation — no overexposure, no underdosing. It’s precision medicine, powered by light.
Aspen’s Role in What’s Next
Aspen continues to lead this evolution by developing systems that combine:
- Clinical precision (laser-based dosing and wavelength control)
- Wellness scalability (whole-body and at-home PBM)
- Data-driven innovation (smart interfaces and customizable protocols)
With each advancement, Aspen’s goal remains the same: to empower practitioners and patients with technology that helps the body do what it was designed to do — heal itself.
Frequently Asked Questions About Photobiomodulation Therapy
Does Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBM) hurt?
No. PBM is completely non-invasive and pain-free. Most people feel only gentle warmth or light pressure during treatment as the device moves over the skin. There’s no burning, vibration, or discomfort. Because PBM is non-thermal, it doesn’t heat or damage tissue; it simply stimulates cellular energy production to help the body heal naturally.
Many patients describe the experience as soothing, with noticeable relief and relaxation immediately after a session.
How often should I do PBM?
Treatment frequency depends on your condition, goals, and device type.
- Acute injuries or pain: 2–3 sessions per week until improvement.
- Chronic conditions: 1–2 sessions per week for several weeks.
- Wellness and recovery: 2–4 sessions per month for maintenance.
Because PBM creates a cumulative effect, consistency matters more than intensity. Professional systems like Aspen’s Class IV lasers or TheraLight beds deliver higher doses per session, so results appear faster than with lower-power devices.
Is PBM the same as red light therapy?
Not exactly.
“Red light therapy” is a broad consumer term that typically refers to LED devices using visible red light (around 630–660 nm) for skin and wellness applications.
Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBM), on the other hand, is the scientifically validated medical term describing the use of both red and near-infrared wavelengths (600–1070 nm) to stimulate healing at the cellular level.
So while all red light therapy uses PBM principles, not all PBM is limited to red light. Professional systems go deeper and treat more complex tissue structures.
What’s the difference between PBM and laser therapy?
“Laser therapy” is a general phrase that can describe many light-based treatments, including surgical, cosmetic, or ablative lasers.
Photobiomodulation Therapy refers specifically to low-level, non-destructive laser and LED light therapy used to stimulate, not damage, tissue.
PBM is often called “cold laser” or “low-level laser therapy (LLLT)” because it uses light without heat to activate natural healing.
How does PBM actually work?
PBM delivers specific wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin and are absorbed by mitochondria, the energy-producing centers of your cells. This triggers a photochemical reaction that increases ATP (cellular energy), reduces inflammation, and enhances tissue repair. It’s biology, not heat. Your body simply performs better when cells have more energy. Read more here.
Is Photobiomodulation Therapy safe?
Yes. PBM is FDA-cleared and non-invasive. It’s been studied in more than 5,000 lab and clinical trials and has no known serious side effects. PBM is considered one of the safest modalities in modern pain management and recovery (when administered by a trained professional or approved device). Read more here.
Who can benefit from PBM?
Anyone experiencing pain, inflammation, or slow recovery can benefit. It’s used by physical therapists, chiropractors, sports teams, wellness clinics, and more. It’s also being used more by individuals at home for everyday recovery and prevention.
Top users include:
- Athletes and trainers seeking faster recovery
- Patients with arthritis, neuropathy, or soft tissue injuries
- Wellness enthusiasts focused on longevity and energy
How long does a PBM session take?
Most PBM treatments last 5–15 minutes per area, depending on the device and target tissue. Whole-body systems like light beds take around 10–20 minutes, while clinical lasers can treat specific areas in just a few minutes.
How soon will I feel results?
Many people notice improvement after just one or two sessions, especially for pain and stiffness. For chronic or deep-tissue conditions, consistent treatments over several weeks yield the best long-term results. PBM’s effects are cumulative — the more regularly you do it, the longer the relief lasts.
Can PBM be used with other therapies?
Absolutely. PBM integrates seamlessly with:
- Physical therapy and chiropractic adjustments
- Massage and manual therapy
- Strength training or rehabilitation
- Other modalities like cryotherapy or compression
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
- Physical therapy
- Cognitive therapy
It enhances outcomes by reducing inflammation and improving tissue response to other treatments.
Can I use PBM at home?
Yes. There are FDA-cleared home-use PBM devices, including portable red light devices and full-body red light therapy beds. However, for chronic or complex conditions, professional-grade systems in medical or rehab settings deliver faster, deeper results due to higher power and calibrated wavelengths.
Are there any contraindications?
PBM is safe for most people, but caution is advised for:
- Direct eye exposure (protective eyewear required for lasers)
- Use over active cancerous lesions
- Pregnant women (pending research)
Otherwise, PBM can safely be used across all ages and skin types.
