Photobiomodulation and COVID-19 and Long COVID

Supporting Comfort and Well-Being with Photobiomodulation for COVID-19 and Long COVID

Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT), is gaining attention for its potential to support overall wellness in individuals experiencing the lingering effects of COVID-19, often called Long COVID. PBM uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with cells, helping promote relaxation and a sense of comfort.

Recent observations suggest that PBM may help people manage fatigue, support energy levels, and provide soothing effects for muscles and joints. While it is not a treatment or cure, PBM can be incorporated into a wellness routine to enhance overall well-being and support daily comfort during recovery.

Understanding How Photobiomodulation Supports Comfort and Well-Being

Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT), uses specific wavelengths of red or near-infrared light to interact with cells and support cellular energy. By stimulating mitochondrial activity—the “powerhouse” of cells—PBM may help promote a sense of vitality, comfort, and overall well-being.

PBM for Supporting Comfort During Illness

Many people experiencing the effects of viral infections, including COVID-19, report fatigue, low energy, and muscle or joint discomfort. While PBM is not a treatment or cure, some studies suggest it can be a useful tool for supporting energy levels and easing daily discomfort. PBM may also help with focus, alertness, and a general sense of well-being, especially during periods of low energy.

Using PBM for Daily Wellness

• Short Sessions: PBM sessions typically last 10–20 minutes and can be targeted to areas such as the back, shoulders, or legs, depending on where support is needed.

• Consistency: Regular sessions may help maintain a feeling of vitality and comfort.

• Safe Integration: PBM can be incorporated into a broader wellness routine that includes rest, hydration, and light movement.

Supporting Studies and Observations

While research on PBM and viral-related fatigue is still emerging, early reports indicate potential benefits in energy support and comfort. Observational studies and case reports note that individuals using PBM in wellness routines have experienced increased alertness, improved mood, and reduced fatigue during recovery periods.

Conclusion

Photobiomodulation offers a non-invasive, supportive approach for enhancing comfort and well-being during times of low energy or lingering fatigue, such as after viral infections. By harnessing the power of light, PBM can be a safe addition to a wellness routine, helping individuals maintain vitality and support daily energy levels.

Sources

1. Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery: Editor-in-Chief: Michael R Hamblin, PhD Co-Editor-in-Chief: Heidi Abrahamse, PhD Online ISSN: 2578-5478, VOLUME 38, ISSUE 10 / OCTOBER 2020

2. Light-based technologies for management of COVID-19 pandemic crisis: Caetano P. Sabino a b 1, Anthony R. Ball, Mauricio S. Baptista, Tianhong Dai, Michael R. Hamblin, Martha S. Ribeiro, Ana L. Santos, Fábio P. Sellera, George P. Tegos, Mark Wainwright Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1011134420304498

3. Case Study: Photobiomodulation for Severe COVID-19 Pneumonia: Scott A. Sigman, Soheila Mokmeli, Monica Monici and Mariana A. Vetrici,PMCID: PMC7449510, PMID: 32865522, Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7449510/

4. Photobiomodulation Improves Serum Cytokine Response in Mild to Moderate COVID-19: The First Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled, Pilot Study: Seyed Mehran Marashian, Mohammadreza Hashemian, Mihan Pourabdollah, Mansour Nasseri, Saeed Mahmoudian, Florian Reinhart, Alireza Eslaminejad, PubMed. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35874678/

5. Photobiomodulation for COVID 19 & Long COVID: Neuronic Online, Available at: https://neuronic.online/pages/photobiomodulation-for-covid-19-and-long-covid