Kurhaluk N., Tomin V., Kołodziejska R., Tkaczenko H.
Photobiomodulation and Low-Level Laser Therapy as Complementary Strategies in Diabetes Treatment
Natalia Kurhaluk 1, Vladimir Tomin 2, Renata Kołodziejska 3 and Halina Tkaczenko 1
1 Institute of Biology, Pomeranian University in Słupsk, Arciszewski St. 22b, 76-200 Słupsk, Poland
2 Institute of Exact and Technical Sciences, Pomeranian University in Słupsk, Arciszewski St. 22b, 76-200 Słupsk, Poland; vladimir.tomin@upsl.edu.pl
3 Department of Medical Biology and Biochemistry, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toru ´n, M. Karłowicz St. 24, 85-092 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a multifactorial metabolic disorder associated with a number of chronic complications, including neuropathy, impaired wound healing, vascular dysfunction, and metabolic dysregulation. Despite advances in pharmacological treatments and lifestyle interventions, current therapies often fail to prevent or reverse these complications entirely. This narrative review examines the therapeutic potential of laser-based modalities, particularly low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), as complementary strategies in diabetes management. Analysis of experimental and clinical studies shows that laser therapy can enhance wound healing, alleviate neuropathic pain, improve glycaemic control and insulin sensitivity, modulate inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways, and support vascular function. These effects are primarily mediated through mitochondrial activation, nitric oxide release, angiogenesis, modulation of redoxsensitive transcription factors, and preservation of pancreatic β-cell function. Furthermore, laser therapy exhibits a favourable safety profile with minimal side effects. The review highlights the current challenges, such as the lack of standardised treatment parameters (e.g., wavelength, dosage, and duration) and the limited number of large-scale clinical trials. It emphasises the need for personalised protocols and integration of laser therapy with pharmacological and physiotherapeutic interventions. Continued research and interdisciplinary collaboration are needed to realise the potential of laser therapy as an integral component of comprehensive, evidence-based diabetes care.
Keywords: photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT); low-level laser therapy (LLLT); diabetes mellitus; wound healing; neuropathic pain; glycaemic control; oxidative stress; vascular function
