Photobiomodulation shows small periodontal benefits but mixed systemic effects in type 2 diabetes
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Resumen
This systematic review examined photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) in adults with type 2 diabetes across 10 randomized trials. Researchers tested whether PBMT could improve blood sugar control, reduce inflammation, or help with nerve damage. The main results show small improvements in gum health (0.2-0.3 mm in clinical measures), but effects on blood sugar and inflammation were inconsistent. One trial found meaningful HbA1c reductions, but most others showed no benefit. PBMT provided short-term symptom relief for painful neuropathy but did not improve nerve structure. Overall, effects varied widely across studies, and benefits appear modest at best.
Diseño del Estudio
Intervenciones
Tipo de Estudio
Resultados
Duración y Tamaño
Población del Estudio
Rango de Edad
Sexo
Geografía
Otros Criterios
Metodología
Researchers searched five medical databases through June 2025 for randomized trials testing photobiomodulation therapy in adults with type 2 diabetes. They included studies that compared PBMT to sham treatment, usual care, or no intervention. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed quality using standard tools. For outcomes measured consistently across studies, they combined results using random-effects meta-analysis. Studies with different measurement methods or insufficient data were summarized narratively.
Intervenciones
Photobiomodulation therapy (also called low-level laser therapy) uses red or near-infrared light applied to skin or tissues. The included trials used different approaches: some applied light to leg muscles, some to gums, some to wrist blood vessels, and some to oral tissues. Light wavelengths ranged from 630-1064 nanometers, power from 5 to 4000 milliwatts, and treatment sessions from a single application to 36 sessions over 12 weeks. Most trials compared PBMT to sham devices (device turned off) or to standard diabetes care alone.
Hallazgos Clave
The analysis included 10 trials with sample sizes ranging from 10 to 80 participants. For gum health, combining 3 trials showed small improvements in clinical attachment level (0.21 mm better) and probing depth (0.25 mm better), but no change in plaque levels. For blood sugar control, only one trial of 60 people found meaningful HbA1c reductions after 12 weeks; other trials showed no effect or short-term changes that did not last. For inflammation, one trial reported lower IL-6 levels after treatment. For nerve pain, one trial found substantial symptom relief over 12 weeks, though nerve fiber density did not improve.
Comparación con otros Estudios
Previous reviews of photobiomodulation for gum disease found similar small improvements when used alongside standard periodontal therapy. Studies in people without diabetes also reported modest benefits for gum health. The evidence for metabolic effects in diabetes is newer and less consistent. Animal studies suggest potential mechanisms through improved mitochondrial function and glucose uptake, but human trials have not reliably shown these benefits.
Referencia de la Revista
Wevers A, San Roman-Mata S, Navarro-Ledesma S, Pruimboom L. Effects of Photobiomodulation on Metabolic, Inflammatory, and Neurological Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Mol Sci. 2026;27(1):440. doi:10.3390/ijms27010440
© 2026 deDiabetes. Licensed under CC BY (Attribution)
Relacionados y Discusiones
Diabetic Neuropathy: Nerve Damage
Photobiomodulation therapy ameliorates hyperglycemia and insulin resistance
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