the science of atp and lllt

For those of you who don’t know me that well, I really do enjoy science and reading research in relation to health, chiropractic, animals, laser therapy, and medical advancements. Today’s rainy day vibes have led me to some science and biology thoughts in relation to low level laser therapy and how it really works in our bodies as that is a common question I receive. Low level laser therapy (LLLT) has many applications including wound healing, pain relief, musculoskeletal disorders, and skin conditions. The basis behind LLLT is that it uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate the mitochondria in our cells to enhance the production of ATP and this in turn plays a huge role in cellular energy production and healing. ATP is the most abundant energy carrying molecule in the human body.

The human body is made up of trillions of cells and each of these has a very specific job which contributes to the overall health of our entire body. One of the most important cellular components is ATP which is produced by the mitochondria (powerhouse) of our cells. This is done through cellular respiration — taking in glucose and oxygen to then make energy (ATP) for all of our biological processes such as our metabolism, cellular signaling, and DNA synthesis. Besides providing our cells with energy, ATP is responsible for processes such as muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, and protein synthesis. ATP also plays a huge role in how our body releases neurotransmitters.  Neurotransmitters are responsible for how happy we feel in certain situations (dopamine), how we respond in dangerous or stressful situations (adrenaline), how relaxed or focused we feel (serotonin) - just to name a few.

Several things can impact ATP production in our bodies such as diet, exercise, and sleep quality. Our stressful lives and lifestyle choices can definitely decrease our ATP production. On the other hand, low level laser therapy enhances ATP production which increases cellular energy to promote healing in our bodies. The fancy word for how LLLT works is photobiomodulation. This is the concept of photosynthesis in relation to plants. Plants take in light, carbon dioxide, and water to then make food for themselves. Humans can also absorb specific waves of light to make more energy (food) for our bodies via a photochemical reaction.

Low level laser therapy is able to penetrate skin tissues to specific depths. Studies have shown that the optimal wavelength range for laser therapy is between 600-1000nm. Class 2 lasers (cold lasers) must land in the visible light spectrum between about 400-800 nm. When the laser falls between these specifications it’s tuned in to enhancing ATP production in the body. The LLLT also helps activate signaling pathways in the human body for tissue regeneration, reducing inflammation, and improving blood flow for healing. Other than wavelength, other major factors to laser therapy include duration and frequency of the treatment, as well as energy density of the laser. When all of these factors are considered, low level laser therapy is a low risk, no side effect option for both chronic and acute conditions. LLLT is a hopeful option for faster recovery and improved quality of life for both humans and animals.