An article published here in August 2020 announced that positive results were obtained from a study of photobiomodulation (PBM)–also known as “red light therapy”– as a treatment for eye diseases such as AMD, retinopathy of prematurity, and diabetic macular edema. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has simultaneously posted cautionary remarks about recent PBM research.
In the AAO news release published online August 15, 2020, Ninel Z. Gregori, MD (Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami) is quoted as saying, “Based on research so far, there is some evidence that light therapy has the potential to improve eye health . . . But we need a lot more data in humans before it can be used to treat ocular disease or aging eyes.”
More testing in human clinical trials is therefore needed to positively determine safety and most effective methodology of treatment. It is the opinion of Living Well With Low Vision that PBM is obviously not a procedure that should be attempted at home, where no safety protocols are in place.