Photobiomodulation in skeletal muscle repair: Mechanisms, parameters, and therapeutic potential

The theoretical basis for the potentiating effect of photobiomodulation (PBM) on muscle tissue is related to various mechanisms. Muscle is one of the major subcutaneous tissues, and during treatment with PBM, the laser penetrates the skin and enters the muscle tissue. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to investigate the potential application of laser therapy in skeletal muscle by analyzing the mechanism of laser action on target cells. Interest in laser-based photobiomodulation (PBM) has increased significantly in recent years, and this review will focus on this most widely studied non-invasive photon-based therapeutic modality, with PBM broadly encompassing lasers, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and broadband light for tissue repair. PBM is a non-invasive photon-based therapy with multiple biological functions, such as improving mitochondrial function, reducing neuroinflammation, promoting myofactors, modulating the immune system, and enhancing healing and tissue repair processes. Therefore, future research directions and clinical practice guidelines for non-invasive and non-pharmacological therapies will be emphasized and widely used in various fields. This narrative review illustrates that PBM is one of the best adjunctive treatments for skeletal muscle injury by looking for potential therapeutic mechanisms, optimal therapeutic parameters, and exploring the effects of PBM on the activation, proliferation, and differentiation of skeletal muscle cells.