Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 3, 2026
Author Spotlight: Exploring the Complexities of Achilles Tendon Injuries — Research and Future Directions
Published on: October 27, 2023
Immediate effect of photobiomodulation therapy on Achilles tendon morphology and mechanical properties: an
Patrick Corrigan1, Daniel H Cortes2, Karin Grävare Silbernagel1
1Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA.
Objectives:
Evaluate the immediate (within 4 hours) effects of laser-induced photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy on Achilles tendon morphology and mechanical properties in healthy and pathologic tendons.
Materials And Methods:
Twenty people with healthy Achilles tendons and twelve people with Achilles tendinopathy participated. One Achilles tendon received PBM treatment following an established protocol and the contralateral side received a placebo treatment. Achilles tendon morphology and mechanical properties were evaluated bilaterally with ultrasound imaging and continuous shear wave elastography immediately before treatment, immediately after treatment, then 2- and 4-hours after treatment.
Results:
There were no immediate effects of PBM on tendon morphology or mechanical properties when comparing the PBM-treated side and placebo-treated side within each cohort. Additionally, the effects of PBM did not differ between healthy and pathologic Achilles tendons.
Conclusion:
When treated with a laser-induced PBM treatment, healthy and pathologic Achilles tendons do not have immediate (within 4 hours) changes in tendon morphology or mechanical properties. These findings suggest that PBM therapy can be administered before other clinical treatments or high-load activities.
