For many people living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the body and mind never seem to fully relax. Sleep can be disrupted, anxiety may feel constant, and certain memories can trigger overwhelming emotions. While traditional treatments such as therapy and medication remain the foundation of care, researchers are exploring new complementary approaches that may support the brain’s natural healing processes. One of the most promising areas is cold laser therapy, also known as transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM).
What Is Transcranial Photobiomodulation?
Transcranial photobiomodulation uses gentle pulses of red or near-infrared light directed toward specific areas of the head. Unlike heat-producing lasers, cold laser therapy doesn’t burn or damage tissue. Instead, it works at the cellular level, encouraging better energy production in the brain’s mitochondria — the tiny “power plants” inside every cell.
When the brain receives this boost in energy, several beneficial effects may occur:
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Improved oxygen and nutrient delivery to brain tissue
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Reduced inflammation and oxidative stress
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Regulation of neural activity in brain areas linked to mood and stress responses
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Enhanced release of natural neurochemicals that promote calmness and focus
How It May Help with PTSD
Emerging studies suggest that tPBM could help address some of the key challenges people with PTSD experience — including anxiety, hyperarousal, and poor sleep quality. By supporting balanced brain activity, this gentle therapy may help the nervous system shift out of “survival mode” and into a more regulated state.
A recent clinical study published in Frontiers in Neuroscience (PubMed reference) explored how photobiomodulation influences brain connectivity and emotional regulation. Early findings indicate that regular sessions can positively affect areas of the brain involved in stress and fear responses, suggesting potential benefits for people dealing with trauma-related symptoms.
The Feel–Felt–Found Approach
Many people with PTSD feel cautious about trying new treatments — especially after feeling let down by options that didn’t bring relief. They’ve felt sceptical that something as simple as light could have an impact on such deep-rooted stress responses. But what many have found through early use of light-based therapy is that it can create a gentle sense of calm, help ease nightly restlessness, and support emotional recovery over time.
What Research Tells Us
Researchers are still learning exactly how tPBM works in PTSD, but the results so far are encouraging:
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Mood improvement: Studies have reported reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety after consistent use of transcranial light therapy.
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Better sleep patterns: By calming overactive brain regions and supporting the body’s circadian rhythm, some participants report deeper, more restorative sleep.
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Cognitive clarity: Some pilot studies suggest improved attention and memory, possibly due to better oxygen and blood flow to the brain.
It’s important to note that this area of research is still developing. While results are promising, tPBM should be viewed as a supportive tool, not a replacement for established PTSD treatments.
A Gentle, Non-Invasive Support Option
Cold laser therapy is entirely painless and drug-free, which makes it appealing for people who want to support their mental wellness naturally. Treatments can be performed in professional clinics or at home using reliable, well-calibrated devices.
The Pulsed Low-Level Laser Therapy device available from Pulse Laser Relief delivers controlled wavelengths designed to stimulate cellular energy and promote balance in the body’s natural systems. While this particular unit is primarily used for peripheral applications (like pain relief and circulation support), it’s part of the same class of light-based technology now being explored in neuroscience research.
Supporting Your Recovery
Recovery from PTSD takes time, patience, and compassion for yourself. Cold laser therapy may serve as a supportive ally — helping your body and mind find more ease and equilibrium as you continue therapy, mindfulness, or other medical care. The growing research around tPBM is an exciting reminder that healing the brain is not just about chemistry; it’s also about energy, light, and gentle restoration.
References:
Lee TL, Chan DY, Chan DT, Cheung MC, Shum DH, Chan AS. Transcranial Photobiomodulation Improves Cognitive Function, Post-Concussion, and PTSD Symptoms in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. J Neurotrauma. 2025 Jun 9. doi: 10.1089/neu.2025.0048. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 40485299.
