The Benefits of Light Therapy for Thyroid Health
Photobiomodulation is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate the body’s healing processes. Originally developed by NASA, Photobiomodulation Therapy (or PBM for short) is the application of red, green, and near infrared light to improve wound and soft tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and provide relief from pain conditions and injuries. Some of the top uses for PBM include: chronic pain, inflammatory conditions, neuropathy, eczema, psoriasis, arthritis, and post-operative healing. Recently, studies have been conducted on the use of Photobiomodulation for thyroid health. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the benefits of Light Therapy for thyroid health.
What is the Thyroid?
The thyroid is a gland located in the neck that produces hormones that regulate the body's metabolism. When the thyroid is not functioning properly, it can lead to a number of health issues, including: weight gain, fatigue, and depression. Untreated thyroid issues can also contribute to chronic health problems, hormonal imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies.
A Few Fast Facts About Thyroid Health in the US:
An estimated 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease.
Up to 60 percent of those with thyroid disease are unaware of their condition.
Women are five to eight times more likely than men to have thyroid problems.
One woman in eight will develop a thyroid disorder during her lifetime.
Most thyroid cancers respond to treatment, although a small percentage can be very aggressive.
The causes of thyroid problems are largely unknown.
Undiagnosed thyroid disease may put patients at risk for certain serious conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis and infertility.
Pregnant women with undiagnosed or inadequately treated hypothyroidism have an increased risk of miscarriage, preterm delivery, and severe developmental problems in their children.
Most thyroid diseases are life-long conditions that can be managed with medical attention.
LIGHT THERAPY AS AN INNOVATIVE SOLUTION TO THYROID CONDITIONS
Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, a groundbreaking light-based treatment, is making waves in the realm of thyroid health. Its non-invasive nature, coupled by the ease of use makes it a perfect complement to virtually any treatment plan. Let's illuminate three specific benefits of PBM for thyroid conditions:
Non-Invasive and Pain-Free: As stated above, PBM is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular healing and reduce inflammation. This makes it an excellent alternative for those seeking treatments without the discomfort or potential side effects of more invasive procedures or pharmaceutical medications.
Improves Thyroid Function: Studies have shown that PBM can significantly improve thyroid function in individuals with certain thyroid disorders, potentially reducing the need for medication in some cases.
Reduces Thyroid Antibodies: For autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, PBM has been observed to lower the levels of thyroid antibodies, indicating a decrease in autoimmune activity against the thyroid gland.
The “HOW” BEHIND WHY Photobiomodulation WORKS on the thyroid
There are a few theories as to how Photobiomodulation Therapy works on the thyroid. Based on the most recent scientific findings, we’ll outline how it works below:
One theory is that the light energy from the laser stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is a molecule that provides energy to cells. This increase in ATP production can then lead to an increase in the activity of enzymes that are involved in the healing process, such as collagen and elastin synthesis. This can result in improved tissue repair and regeneration, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve the overall health of the thyroid.
Another theory is that photobiomodulation may work by reducing oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them. This imbalance can lead to cell damage and inflammation, which can contribute to the development of thyroid conditions such as hypothyroidism and goiters. Photobiomodulation may help to reduce oxidative stress by increasing the production of antioxidants, which can neutralize free radicals and protect cells from damage.
It's also thought that photobiomodulation may work by modulating the immune system. The immune system plays a crucial role in fighting off infections and healing injuries. Photobiomodulation may help to improve the function of the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells, which are important for fighting off infections, and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory molecules that can contribute to inflammation and damage to the thyroid.
The Science supporting pbm therapy for thyroid disorders
One study published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology found that low-level laser therapy (LLLT) improved symptoms of hypothyroidism. The study included 40 patients with hypothyroidism who received LLLT twice a week for four weeks. The results showed that the patients experienced a significant improvement in their symptoms, including weight loss, increased energy, and improved mood.
Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Laser Medicine & Surgery found that LLLT was effective in reducing the size of goiters. The study included 40 patients with goiters who received LLLT twice a week for four weeks. The results showed that the patients experienced a significant reduction in the size of their goiters and an improvement in their symptoms.
A study published in the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation found that low-level laser therapy (LLLT) improved the quality of life of patients with hypothyroidism. The study included 60 patients with hypothyroidism who were divided into two groups, one group received LLLT and the other group received a placebo. The study found that the group who received LLLT experienced an improvement in their quality of life and their thyroid function test compared to the placebo group.
photobiomodulation therapy vs. other treatments for thyroid health
Photobiomodulation therapy is still considered an alternative treatment for thyroid conditions, and it is not yet widely used as a standard therapy. However, it has been found to be a promising treatment option for certain thyroid conditions such as hypothyroidism and goiters.
In comparison to traditional thyroid therapies, Photobiomodulation therapy is non-invasive and has few (if any) side effects. Traditional therapies for thyroid conditions often involve the use of medications such as levothyroxine, which is used to treat hypothyroidism, and radioactive iodine, which is used to treat hyperthyroidism. These medications can have a number of side effects, including headaches, insomnia, and weight gain. Photobiomodulation therapy, on the other hand, is non-invasive and has few reported side effects.
Another advantage of photobiomodulation therapy is that it can be used as an adjunctive treatment in conjunction with traditional therapies. This can help to improve the effectiveness of traditional therapies and reduce the dosage of medication required.
Surgeries are also a common treatment for goiters, but it has its own set of risks such as bleeding and infection. Photobiomodulation therapy can be used as an alternative treatment for goiters and has no reported serious side effects.
Experience Photobiomodulation THERAPY in Houston, TX
At Huemn - Optimization + Longevity, we have two health and wellness centers across Houston: Vintage Park and M-K-T Heights. At both of our facilities, we offer Photobiomodulation in various ways:
Whole Body Light Bed: Ideal for systemic inflammation relief, this full-body experience supports overall wellness and can indirectly benefit thyroid health.
Localized, Topical Photobiomodulation: Specifically targeting the thyroid, this focused approach allows us to address thyroid health directly, offering a tailored treatment for those with thyroid conditions.