THE ROLE OF PHOTOBIOMODULATION (PBM)
Although ACL treatment is dominated by surgery and rehabilitation, PBM can play an important supporting role in the post-traumatic or post-surgical phase. It is involved in the management of pain, inflammation, optimization of ligament healing, and regeneration.
The main mechanism of action of PBM is the absorption of photons by Cytochrome C Oxidase (CCO), a key enzyme in the mitochondrial respiratory chain. 1 This stimulation increases ATP production: Activation of CCO increases the production of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), which boosts the cell’s metabolic activity. Then, the release of nitric oxide (NO), an inhibitor of CCO, results in local vasodilation and improved microcirculation. Finally, the increase in ATP and NO activates transcription factors, modulating the expression of genes involved in cell proliferation, anti-inflammation, and the production of growth factors. 2
Laser
Spot size (mm), Irradiance (Power density mW/cm 2 ), Fluence (Energy density J/cm 2 )
Tissue
Chromophores (influence by light wavelengths)
Mechanisms
Photobiomodulation (light modifying cellular activity)
Effects
Physiological changes and therapeutic effects (expedites healing and pain relief)
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