Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care, affecting nearly 80% of adults at some point in their lives. While medications, physical therapy, and even surgery are traditional go-to treatments, more people are exploring non-invasive alternatives that target pain and inflammation at the source. One such promising option is photobiomodulation therapy (PBM)—a light-based treatment with growing scientific support.
What is Photobiomodulation?
Photobiomodulation, sometimes called low-level laser therapy (LLLT), uses specific wavelengths of red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular activity. The process is painless, non-thermal (meaning it doesn’t heat tissues), and typically involves a handheld device or panel that emits light over the affected area.
PBM works by stimulating the mitochondria in our cells—often referred to as the “powerhouses” of the cell—to produce more ATP, the energy currency that drives cellular repair and regeneration. This boost in cellular energy can reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and accelerate healing.