Digging deeper into the nuances of photobiomodulation | part 2 with Tom Kerber
Dec 14, 2024
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Tom Kerber, an engineer and founder of SunPowerLED, dives deep into the science of photobiomodulation and red/near-infrared light therapy. He discusses the controversies surrounding optimal light penetration depth and how it impacts therapeutic efficacy. Tom shares insights on light dosages, device types, and the differences between lasers and LEDs. Notably, he explores photobiomodulation's applications in dentistry and brain health, including exciting advancements in treating conditions like addiction and depression with targeted light therapies.
Tom Kerber highlights the importance of understanding light penetration depth, emphasizing that device types and wavelengths significantly impact treatment effectiveness.
The podcast discusses the contentious issue of dosing in photobiomodulation, stressing the necessity for standardized practices to ensure therapeutic efficacy and safety.
Kerber explains the differences between laser and LED devices, noting that treatment outcomes vary based on how these technologies emit light and their penetration capabilities.
Deep dives
Understanding Photobiomodulation
Photobiomodulation refers to how light, particularly red and near-infrared light, influences biological processes. The discussion revolves around its applications and benefits, particularly in healing and therapy. Tom Kerber's experiments aim to provide clarity in this field, where existing literature is often fragmented and lacks consistency in terms of device types and methods. His work highlights the importance of rigorous scientific inquiry to demystify how light penetration varies across different wavelengths and device specifications.
Challenges in Measuring Light Penetration
One of the significant challenges in the field of photobiomodulation is accurately measuring the penetration depth of different light devices. Tom emphasizes the complexity involved in determining how deep light can effectively reach biological tissues due to numerous variables, such as device type, beam angle, and the specific wavelengths used. Through systematic experimentation, he seeks to gather concrete data that can help answer critical questions regarding tissue absorption and effective dosing. This emphasis on measurement is crucial as it impacts the efficacy of treatments and devices used in light therapy.
The Controversy of Dosage in Light Therapy
Dosing in light therapy presents a contentious issue in the field where varying opinions exist on the optimal energy levels required for therapeutic effectiveness. Discussions point out the phenomenon of biphasic dose response, indicating that both under- and overdosing can diminish the therapeutic effects of light. Different tissues in the body exhibit distinct sensitivities to light, necessitating further research into appropriate dosage levels for varying conditions. This ongoing debate underscores the necessity for standardized practices in dosage to ensure safety and efficacy during treatments.
The Impact of Device Type on Treatment Outcomes
The type of device used in light therapy—whether lasers or LEDs—greatly influences treatment outcomes due to differences in how they emit light. Lasers typically focus light into a narrow beam, while LEDs provide broader coverage, leading to different therapeutic effects. Tom explains that although laser light may seem advantageous due to its concentration, it may not necessarily penetrate deeper than LEDs when factors like tissue scattering are considered. This distinction is vital because users must select the device type based on their specific treatment needs and desired outcomes.
Practical Insights for Effective Light Therapy
Practical insights shared in the podcast focus on the correct application of light therapy devices to maximize therapeutic effects. Tom points out that ensuring devices are used correctly—such as maintaining optimal distances and recognizing the significance of contact versus non-contact applications—is critical for effective results. He also emphasizes the importance of user education regarding the functioning of different devices and the biological impacts of various wavelengths. Collectively, these insights aim to enhance user experiences and outcomes in light therapy practices.
12In this episode, I’m continuing my conversation with Tom Kerber, an engineer with a great deal of knowledge and experience in the field of photobiomodulation (aka modifying biology with light).
Be sure to listen to part 1 if you haven’t already!
Two decades ago, Tom shifted his career from electronic to LED device development, and since then, he’s been creating sophisticated tools and equipment to help us better understand the penetration depth of red and near-infrared light.
In our conversation today, Tom and I dig even deeper into the controversies and science surrounding red and near-infrared light therapy, particularly the nanometer range needed to truly penetrate our tissues and experience a therapeutic dose of light inside our bodies.
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