Modulation of pain transmission by near infrared light is directly related to irradiance at the target nerve

Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy is effective in modulating pain. Application of high irradiance light at the target tissue is a subcategory of PBM termed Transient Selective Neural inhibition via PBM (tSNIP). Our initial studies using tSNIP, in rodent models of neuropathic pain, delivered light transcutaneously. These results established the efficacy of tSNIP in vivo to selectively block transmission of lightly myelinated (A-δ) and unmyelinated (C) nerve fibers which transmit nociception and thermal sensation and not affect large, myelinated fibers. For clinical translation of tSNIP for pain control, invasive, temporary methods for direct delivery of light at the neural target are being developed. Our research is focusing on direct tSNIP to determine duration and pain reduction as a function of laser irradiation parameters in a pig model of chronic pain. Disclaimer: The opinions, interpretations, and conclusions are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, the U.S. Government or the Department of Defense.