10 ESSENTIALS: 07 – Timing

Longer Is Not Better

If power determines how quickly energy can be delivered, timing determines how long that energy is applied. It is tempting to assume that if a certain amount of laser exposure is beneficial, using the laser longer should produce an even greater response.

Photobiomodulation (PBM) research shows why that assumption can be misleading. Light can produce a biphasic dose response, meaning the biological response can change as exposure increases.

At a level that is too low, there may be little or no measurable response. As exposure increases, the response can reach a more effective range. Beyond that range, increasing exposure further may reduce or inhibit the desired response. (1) More is not necessarily better.

The Arndt Schultz Law

The Arndt Schultz Law describes the principle that biological responses can change with the strength of a stimulus. In PBM, this concept is commonly discussed as a biphasic dose response.

A small stimulus may produce little response. An appropriate stimulus may produce a stronger response. An excessive stimulus may reduce or inhibit that response. (1)

The important part of this curve is the optimal window. PBM is not simply about leaving a laser in place for as long as possible. The amount of light being delivered and the duration of exposure both matter.

Why Timing Is Preprogrammed

The Blue Honest PRO VX laser system uses preprogrammed timing within its settings. The user does not need to calculate exposure times or assume that doubling the time will produce twice the benefit. The timing is already incorporated into the programming.

This takes one of the most important variables in laser use and removes the guesswork from the person holding the device. The goal is not the longest application – it is the appropriate application time.

Research & References

(1) Huang YY, Chen ACH, Carroll JD, Hamblin MR. Biphasic Dose Response in Low Level Light Therapy. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2790317/