As autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a range of complex neurodevelopment disorders and because of the elusive pathophysiology, autism poses a marked challenge for health care providers. There is no single best treatment for all individuals with autistic disorder. But with the advancement in modern medical science, a drastic development in various treatment and rehabilitation methods for autism is there now. And one such technology gaining attention in recent times at using for autism is the low-level laser therapy (LLLT). But before turning heads towards this trending mode of treatment holistically, the need for proper understanding is vital.
Lower level laser therapy (LLLT), also known as cold laser therapy or photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-power laser or light-emitting diodes to stimulate cellular activity for tissue healing, pain reduction, and regeneration. It works by applying light, typically in the red to near-infrared spectrum, which penetrates the tissue and initiates photochemical reactions to promote cell proliferation and reduce inflammation. Usually, the common applications of LLLT can be seen in field such as PainManagement where it is used for various pain conditions, including lower back pain, osteoarthritis, and carpal tunnel syndrome, by reducing inflammation and improving circulation; Wound Healingas it can accelerate the healing of various wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, burns, and surgical scars and also for hair growth and dentistry.
When it come to LLLT, the growing trend for it being used for autism, especially in abroad and recently at some clinics in India, is piquing several. But how much of it is evidence based, may still be questionable, as there lacks results of conclusive evidence in improvement when used for autism. As there are only a few small studies and the research evidence is still limited, the results are not strong enough to say it definitely works.
Low Level Laser Therapy for Autism
A few studies have showed limited improvements in some children showing mild improvements in Irritability, Focus and attention, Repetitive behaviours, Social interaction, Sleep. LLLT uses photonic energy to modulate the behaviour and function of cells by stimulating molecular entities capable of absorbing discrete wavelengths. Concerning neurons, laser irradiation has been shown to promote the recovery of injured peripheral nerves and the spinal cord. Moreover, studies have revealed that excitable cells like neurons can be directly stimulated by light, enhancing the action potential of the cell increasing the release of neurotransmitters such as glutamate and acetylcholine.
But as there exist no clear protocol on the usage and dosage for LLLT as a medication for autism, the authenticity is yet to be proven.
What the research actually shows
As the LLLT as a treatment for autism has gained much fanfare during the recent times, the concerned parents have been showing growing interest for to use the same for their beloved children’s matter. The notion of sudden improvement being possible through this particular treatment has somehow been instilled in the minds of parents. But the fact is that, this is not a gold standard thing. As clear cut evidence on it is still pending, the already proven and evidence based therapies such as occupational, speech, behavioural etc. remain the real golden standards of rehabilitation for autism. The need of immense understanding about the topic is still required as some points still needed to be convinced:
- Some small, good-quality trials (sham-controlled):A few studies where children were randomly given real or fake treatment showed mild improvements. This is a good sign, but sample sizes are very small.
- Many small pilot studies and case reports:
These show improvements in rating scales like CARS, irritability, focus, and behaviours. But many of these studies had no control group. - Reviews of all research say the same thing:
PBM looks promising, safe, and worth studying more —
but not enough proof to recommend it as a standard therapy. - More studies are happening:
There are ongoing clinical trials abroad trying to understand if PBM really works. - Safety:
PBM appears generally safe, with few side effects reported. Long-term effects are still in research.
Is it safe?
So far, studies show PBM is generally safe with very few side effects, like mild headache, temporary sleepiness, warm feeling on the head. But as said earlier, the long-term effects and implication may be is yet to understand, because this is a relatively newer approach and research are only in progress. It can only be completely confirmed when definite long-term safety and standard treatment protocols are in place.
Clinical outcomes with LLLT trials include nerve regeneration, increased neurotransmitter release, growth factor synthesis, and neovascularization to name a few. It follows that positioning of the laser along impaired regions of an autistic brain could elicit a positive therapeutic outcome in a safe and non-invasive manner. But an immediate cure through the LLLT is not possible. Also discontinuing other therapies only for LLLT may affect the general improvement. Every parent must give thorough thought before going behind the unproven treatment methods, when there already exist many proven and evidence-based rehabilitation methods. Acknowledging the fact that just because it is gaining attention, doesn’t prove its authenticity, is important.
Prepared by: Dr. Joseph Sunny Kunnacherry – Founder, Prayatna
