Light-emitting diode therapy

Light-emitting diode therapy (LEDT) is an therapeutic approach using different wavelengths of LED lights to treat disease. (The diagram is a blue light therapy, 415 nm wavelength)

Light-emitting diode therapy (LEDT) is a clinical approach that applies different wavelengths of light to cure diseases or conditions with skin-safe lights. Following NASA's innovation in the 1990s with Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) that emit a specific narrow light spectrum, LED Therapy (LEDT) showed significant potential.[1] The high precision of narrow-band LED therapy enabled its first use in clinical practices. The commonly used lights in LEDT are blue, red, green, yellow, and infrared (IR).[1]

LEDT's general mechanism is related to cellular receptor metabolism. Light functions as an external stimulus and influences cellular metabolism by initiating photo-biochemical reactions within cells. Light Emitting Diode Therapy (LEDT) encompasses two primary therapeutic approaches: photodynamic Therapy (PDT) and photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT). Photodynamic therapy (PDT) utilises light-sensitive compounds combined with LED light to generate reactive oxygen species, which selectively target and destroy abnormal cells. Oncology and certain skin conditions widely use this technique. Whereas photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) utilizes low-level LED light to stimulate cellular repair, stimulate wound healing, and reduce inflammation, without the use of photosensitizing agents.

Different wavelengths and mechanisms are utilized for different therapeutic effects. The therapeutic advantages of LED therapy stem from its effectiveness in various treatments, including wound healing, acne treatment, sunburn protection, and the use of phototherapy for facial wrinkles and skin revitalization.[2]

Compared to laser phototherapy, Light Emitting Diode Therapy (LEDT) is recognized for its enhanced safety profile, exhibiting fewer short-term and long-term side effects. This distinction stems from LEDT's use of non-coherent light at lower intensities, which minimizes the risks of tissue damage and discomfort often associated with the high-intensity, coherent light of lasers. Still, there are some side effects that can be commonly seen after exposure to light, that vary on the therapy patients take, PBMT or PDT.

  1. ^ a b Calderhead, R Glen (2007). "The Photobiological Basics Behind Light-Emitting Diode (Led) Phototherapy". Laser Therapy. 16 (2): 97–108. doi:10.5978/islsm.16.97. ISSN 1884-7269.
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