Full-body red and near-infrared photobiomodulation is feasible and highly acceptable in a predominantly Hispanic/Latino population with musculoskeletal pain, and is associated with substantial perceived benefit.
In a single-arm pilot study of 40 adults with musculoskeletal pain, 92.1% reported global improvement, 74.3% reported immediate pain relief after the first session, and 95.0% would recommend PBM. Exploratory analysis estimated a reduction in total pain burden from median 6.0 to 3.5 (p < 0.001, r = 0.88).
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Full-body red and near-infrared photobiomodulation is feasible and highly acceptable in a predominantly Hispanic/Latino population with musculoskeletal pain, and is associated with substantial perceived benefit. The current body of evidence comprises 1 study. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 34/100 (low).
The Claim
Full-body red and near-infrared photobiomodulation is feasible and highly acceptable in a predominantly Hispanic/Latino population with musculoskeletal pain, and is associated with substantial perceived benefit.
This conclusion is most relevant to: 40 adults with self-reported acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain; 87.5% Hispanic/Latino, 62.5% female, mean age 37.2 years..
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Feasibility and Patient-Reported Outcomes of Full-Body Red and Near-Infrared Photobiomodulation for Musculoskeletal Pain in a Predominantly Hispanic/Latino Population: A Single-Arm Pilot Study. (Photobiomodulation, photomedicine, and laser surgery, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Red and NIR light penetrates tissue and is absorbed by chromophores in mitochondria
- ▸This absorption may enhance cellular metabolism and ATP production
- ▸Modulation of inflammatory and analgesic pathways occurs
- ▸Result: perceived reduction in pain and improvement in function
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸40 adults with self-reported acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain; 87.5% Hispanic/Latino, 62.5% female, mean age 37.2 years.
Recommended Dose
10 sessions of 20 minutes each (total 200 minutes of exposure)
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸Single-arm uncontrolled design precludes efficacy conclusions
- ▸Outcomes based on non-validated surveys and estimated post-intervention pain scores rather than directly measured values
- ▸Adverse event severity and duration not captured
Frequently Asked Questions
What is photobiomodulation (PBM) and how is it delivered?▼
PBM uses red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular processes. In this study, a full-body LED panel emitting 630, 660, 830, and 850 nm light was used for 20-minute sessions, 10 times total.
Is PBM effective for musculoskeletal pain?▼
This pilot study shows high perceived benefit (92.1% global improvement), but due to the uncontrolled design, efficacy cannot be confirmed. A sham-controlled trial is needed.
Was PBM safe in this study?▼
Only one participant reported a negative or uncomfortable feeling, but severity and duration were not recorded. Overall, PBM was well-tolerated.
Who was studied in this trial?▼
The study included 40 adults with musculoskeletal pain, predominantly Hispanic/Latino (87.5%), with a mean age of 37.2 years and 62.5% female.
References
- 1.Scoz RD, Garza F, Burberg I, Moreno I, Cantu ME, Dominguez M, Gonzalez J. “Feasibility and Patient-Reported Outcomes of Full-Body Red and Near-Infrared Photobiomodulation for Musculoskeletal Pain in a Predominantly Hispanic/Latino Population: A Single-Arm Pilot Study..” Photobiomodulation, photomedicine, and laser surgery, 2026. PMID: 42629561 DOI: 10.1177/25785478261481618