Laser Clinic

Laser acupuncture (LA) integrates principles of traditional acupuncture with photobio-modulation (PBM) and has gained increasing attention as a non-invasive modality for pain management. PBM–based integrative LA in medicine refers to the application of low-level laser irradiation to acupuncture points, combining contemporary biomedical mechanisms with holistic, system-oriented therapeutic principles. This review aimed to critically assess the scientific evidence on the efficacy of LA for pain management within the framework of the Principles of Clinical Integration of Photobiomodulation (PCIPBM) in LA, summarizing frequently used laser parameters and clinical indications. LA in-volves special protocols in standardized acupoints, using defined parameters of wave-length, irradiation, and energy density, consistent with PBM dosing principles. Therapeu-tic effects are mediated through point-specific neuromodulation and photobiological mechanisms, including modulation of peripheral and central nociceptive processing, re-duction of pro-inflammatory mediators, improvement of microcirculation, and mito-chondrial activation via cytochrome c oxidase–dependent adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis. Clinical studies report statistically and clinically significant analgesic effects, particularly in chronic musculoskeletal pain, osteoarthritis, low back and neck pain, temporomandibular disorders, neuropathic pain, and selected postoperative pain condi-tions, when appropriate laser parameters are applied. Reported adverse effects are mini-mal, and tolerability is high. LA represents a safe, non-invasive therapeutic option and patient‑friendly approach with clinically relevant efficacy in pain management. When applied according to PCIPBM, including evidence-based PBM parameters, it may serve as an effective adjunct or alternative to conventional pharmacologic and interventional ap-proaches. Further standardization and high‑quality randomized controlled trials are still required.