Photobiomodulation therapy for peripheral neuropathy in diabetic and cancer patients: A narrative review

BACKGROUND: Peripheral neuropathy is a common and debilitating complication frequently observed in diabetic patients and individuals undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy for cancer treatment. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) significantly impair quality of life and may adversely affect oral health and daily functioning. OBJECTIVE: This narrative review aimed to evaluate the potential therapeutic effects of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) in the management of peripheral neuropathy, with particular focus on DPN and CIPN in cancer patients. METHODS: A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases for studies published between 2010 and 2025. Relevant English-language studies investigating PBMT in peripheral neuropathy, neuropathic pain, nerve regeneration, biomarkers, and quality of life outcomes were included. RESULTS: Current evidence suggests that PBMT may reduce neuropathic pain, improve nerve conduction, enhance sensory function, and improve quality of life in patients with DPN and CIPN. PBMT has also demonstrated beneficial effects on neurobiological biomarkers, including calcitonin gene-related peptide and neuron-specific enolase. In addition, its anti-inflammatory and mitochondrial regulatory effects may contribute to nerve regeneration and tissue repair. CONCLUSION: PBMT represents a promising non-invasive therapeutic strategy for peripheral neuropathy management in diabetic individuals and cancer patients. Although available evidence supports its safety and clinical efficacy, further large-scale randomized clinical trials are required to standardize treatment protocols and clarify long-term outcomes.