Frequently asked questions about the Therapy (PBMT
What we ask more often
Direct responses, evidence-based and to the point.
What exactly is the Therapy of Photobiomodulation?
The Therapy Photobiomodulation (PBMT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to stimulate the natural processes of repair of the organism. Can help to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing of the tissues.
What is the difference of "therapy red light" that I see on the internet?
"Light therapy red" and LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy) are earlier names that are still used in an equivalent manner in the market. The PBMT is the official term adopted in 2015 by the World Association for Photobiomodulation Therapy (WALT) to unify the scientific terminology.
What is important is not the name, but the technical information. A quality device should indicate, as a minimum, the wavelength (nm), the type of source (laser or LED), the optical power (mW), and the time of treatment recommended.
Is there scientific evidence real behind this therapy?
Yes. There is a base of thousands of studies published in scientific journals of prestige for decades. The evidence is not uniform for all applications — there are areas with solid endorsement, such as oral mucositis and other in the research phase.
See the Applications section to see the level of evidence of each use.
What the FDA or the european authorities recognize this therapy?
The U.s. FDA has approved numerous devices of PBMT for specific indications, such as the temporary relief of joint pain and the treatment of oral mucositis. In Spain and Europe, many devices have a CE marking, which certifies its compliance with safety and health standards.
The FDA approves devices for specific indications, not therapy in general, which is an important nuance to keep in mind when assessing any statement marketing.
How is a session of PBMT? Does it hurt?
No, it does not hurt. Most of the people do not feel absolutely nothing during the session. Some describe a light and pleasant feeling of warmth in the treated area, due to a small increase in blood flow.
The light device is placed near or in gentle contact with the skin. The session usually lasts between 5 and 20 minutes, depending on the area treated. There is No recovery period: you can return to your activities immediately.
How many sessions do I need?
It depends on the condition and the individual response. The PBMT is a cumulative process, not a solution of a single session. A plan usual includes 2-3 sessions per week during the first weeks, followed by maintenance sessions less frequently.
For acute problems — such as an extraction or a sports injury — treatment can be brief and intense. For chronic conditions, may require an approach to longer-term. Dr. Vilaplana design is always a plan as after the initial assessment.
How soon will I notice results?
Some patients find relief within just a few sessions, especially in acute pain or post-surgical. For chronic conditions, the changes tend to be evident after 3-4 weeks of continuous treatment.
Results may vary depending on the chronicity of the condition and the individual response of each patient. Set realistic expectations with your professional since the start is the part of a clinical approach to honest.
How secure is the PBMT? Does it have side effects?
The PBMT has excellent safety profiles when applied by a qualified professional. It is non-invasive and has no side effects associated with many medications.
In a very small number of people may appear mild reactions and transient redness, mild or slight temporal sensitivity. Both go away by themselves in a few days. If at any time you feel intense heat or pain, report it to the professional.
Are there situations in which NOT can you use it?
Yes. Does not apply on the abdomen during pregnancy. The application on malignant tumors assets, the thyroid and the treatments eye should only be done under medical supervision of a specialist.
In addition, it is used with caution in persons with photosensitivity, who take medicines that increase the sensitivity of the skin, or with pacemakers or defibrillators. Your professional will review your medical history completely before starting any treatment.
Can I combine the PBMT with my normal medical treatment?
In most cases, yes. In fact, the PBMT is commonly used as a complement to other treatments, such as physiotherapy, surgery or orthodontics. Always reported to your professional about all the medications you take and any other treatment that you are following.
Is it safe for children and teenagers?
Yes. The PBMT can be used in children and adolescents when it is indicated and is applied by a qualified professional. The treatment is adapted to the age and the characteristics of the patient, and minors require the consent of their legal guardian.
Are the results permanent?
Depends on the condition being treated. For acute situations — a extraction, a wound, a post — the results can be final once resolved the cause. For chronic conditions, the PBMT can control and significantly improve symptoms, but may need maintenance sessions on a regular basis to sustain the long-term results.
Why the PBMT works for different conditions?
Because it acts on a cellular mechanism universal: the mitochondria. Mitochondria are responsible for producing energy (ATP) in need of any cell in the body to function and repair itself. When you are under stress — inflammation, injury, or disease — producing less energy.
The light stimulates the production of ATP, which helps the cells to function better regardless of tissue: muscle, oral mucosa, nervous tissue. That's why the same principle can be applied in contexts as different.
This is not about "cure-all", but that the starting point cell is the same in many pathologies other.
What can I expect the same results in the testimonials?
The testimonies documented cases actual individual. The results depend on many factors: the specific condition, its chronicity, the biological response to individual and adherence to the treatment protocol.
What we can guarantee is that the protocol will be based on the best available evidence and that the Dr. Vilaplana will always be honest about what that PBMT can — and cannot — do, in your specific case.
Can I use a device PBMT at home
Yes. There is a wide range of devices for home use, from small flashlights for local application to panels for increased coverage. It can be a good option to maintain the results obtained in clinic for the treatment of some mild discomfort and occasional.
His power tends to be lower than that of the clinical teams, so that you do not replace the assessment, or the professional treatment of a diagnosed disease or a complex condition.
How do I choose a device for home use reliable?
A quality device should indicate the wavelength (nm), the type of source (laser or LED), the optical power (mW), and the time of treatment recommended. Checks that have CE marking (Europe), see reviews independent and opt for manufacturers who support their devices with clinical research.
The best option is to consult with a specialist in PBMT before you buy: be able to recommend the type of device most appropriate to your case and guide you on how to use it safely.
How a device's home is as effective as the treatment in the clinic?
Tend not to have the same effectiveness. The clinical teams are more powerful and versatile, and the diagnostic and custom protocol of the professional make a real difference.
However, the two options are complementary: the clinical treatment is the main engine to address a problem of root, while the device home is an excellent tool for the maintenance and preventive care.
Where can I find a professional who uses PBMT?
The PBMT is used in different health specialties, such as dentistry, physical therapy, sports medicine, rehabilitation, and dermatology. If you're looking for this treatment, consultation with a practitioner of the speciality corresponding to your health problem and ask if you are using PBMT. If you don't offer, you can orientate yourself or derivarte to another professional.
If you have difficulties to find a professional, a university or a scientific society related to the laser or photobiomodulation can guide you through to centers with experience in this therapy.
If your query is DENTAL and you find yourself in MADRID, the Clínica Dental del Rey offers treatments with PBMT in the field of dental and orofacial.
You can make an appointment at clinicadelrey.is
How do I know if I am a candidate for the PBMT?
The best way is to have an assessment face-to-face. In general terms, the PBMT is suitable for most people.
Contraindications are few, but important — your professional will be reviewed at the first visit.