Can Light Ease Autism Traits?
Autism is a lifelong condition paired with sizable abnormalities in the brain, including an imbalance of functional connectivity, transmission, neuronal death, gliosis (glial cell reactions to central nervous system damage), and inflammation.
However, a study using red light therapy, AKA photobiomodulation (PBM), shows promise for reduced irritability and other symptoms in 5-17 year olds on the autism spectrum. These improvements were maintained over time. Though the study was small–just 40 participants–the results were found to be statistically significant.
In a separate case study, transcranial PBM yielded improvements in children’s social interaction, creativity, and attention span. Parents and teachers confirmed these benefits. The treatment used red to near-infrared light. Not only did this treatment help relieve autism symptoms in the brain, but it improved the composition of the microbiome.
Results were maintained for up to 12 months after PBM. The hypothesis is that PBM helps improve connectivity in different parts of the brain, reduces cell death and mitochondrial issues, gliosis and brain inflammation.
Photobiomodulation is non-invasive and has an impeccable safety record with little or no side effects.
If you think PBM might be of benefit to you, contact our office for a consultation. If someone you know has an autistic child in the family, consider sharing this news.
Related Sources:
Leisman G, Machado C, Machado Y, Chinchilla-Acosta M. Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2018;1116:111-130. doi: 10.1007/5584_2018_234. PMID: 29956199.
Hamilton, Catherine, Ann Liebert, Vincent Pang, Pierre Magistretti, and John Mitrofanis. 2022. "Lights on for Autism: Exploring Photobiomodulation as an Effective Therapeutic Option" Neurology International 14, no. 4: 884-893. https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint14040071