MEDTECH REVIEW: MEET "NEURALCHEK" - HEART RATE VARIABILITY SCANNER

Written by: Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya

Heart Rate Variability (HRV) is a tool I use to measure and follow patients progress.  First time visits need the NeuralChek* to measure the Autonomic Nervous System.  Before we begin any protocols or management programs it’s essential to know what a patient’s nervous system looks like, what their stress levels are and what the sleep patterns are like. 

I would say about 90% of the time I ask the question, “Do you have much stress in your life?” The response is: “No!” Or “I have ‘normal’ stress.”  And I run a HRV to measure what the unconscious body will measure and I then translate how the nervous system is functioning in the moment. There is no such thing as ‘normal’ stress - we just learn to adapt to the levels of it and make it our ‘new normal’ which can silently change our levels of inflammation and lead to chronic degeneration. 

Field report: by Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya

Patient GG, 89 years young, came back into my center after months of no contact due to suffering from Ramsay Hunt Syndrome for 6 months. She presents in facial and ear pain and is concerned she won't return back to normal. I measured with NeuralChek and started on her healing and wellness protocol. The following results were conducted June 9, 2023

HEART RATE VARIABILITY 

- Stress Index: 831 (Normal 10-100)

- Cardiovascular Adaptation: 1396 (Normal 35-145)

- Energy Resources: 25 (Normal 150-600)

- Spectrum of Brain Wave Activity: 82% Delta dominance (normal Beta Dominance)

- Gerontological Curve: Actual Age 89 , Biological Age 97

She was not happy with the results and felt hopeless. I explained I like to measure as our foundational base but only to show the results of progress when I re-measure after her protocol sessions in my office to decrease the inflammation and pain. 

Having this measurement I can now focus on a personalized protocol for my patient. After 3 weeks of sessions, my patient wanted to make sure she was reversing her inflammation and we conducted another HRV with the following results:

- June 28, 2023 @ 3:36pm

- Stress Index: 317 (Normal 10-100)

- Cardiovascular Adaptation: 507 (Normal 35-145)

- Energy Resources: 66 (Normal 150-600)

- Spectrum of Brain Wave Activity: 76% Delta dominance (normal Beta Dominance)

- Gerontological Curve: Actual Age 89 , Biological Age 81

Acutely, her stress index and her cardiovascular adaptation decreased in the right direction. She was pleased to see in 20 short days her facial pain reduced and her stamina return.  She had gained more energy and slight improvement in her sleep cycle. She understands she has more work to do to return to a healthier state with less inflammation and better sleep.  But overall, she loved visualizing her biological age returning back to the lower 80’s. 

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HRV & BRAINTAP: STRESS MONITORING FOR BASE LINES AND TECH EFFICACY TESTING

By: Lennard M. Gettz

INTRODUCTION: Over 10 years ago, BrainTap founding designer Dr. Patrick Porter and clinical research specialist Dr. Francisco Cidral conducted a global search for a comprehensive and portable neuro-scanning solution to help access and assess biometric data of BrainTap users.  They found the concept of monitoring HEART RATE VARIABILITY to provide the vital information needed about the user's health conditions (base line) as well as the body's reactions to the BrainTap experience.  

To note, BrainTap is a patented advancement in meditation technology with proprietary neuro-algorithm that claims to offer brainwave entrainment – the synchronization of brainwaves to a specialized sound (binaural beats) in support of neuro-activity to maximize its impact on neuroplasticity.  BrainTap induces auricular therapy and varied frequencies to dose eyes and ears with energy, promoting healing and overall well-being.

REAL-TIME SCANNING OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM (NON-INVASIVELY)

On August 20, 2023, our IPHA-NEWS editorial team met with the BrainTap team at the ABUNDANCE 360 event at the Mandarin Orient Hotel in NYC.  In a dedicated demo suite, BrainTap educational presenters Michael Porter and Erin Miller were explaining the neuro-readings of recent testers of the digital meditation device. Neurosensors were adhered on both wrists of the volunteers as the NEUROCHEK* software acquired five minutes worth of bioreadings related to BrainTap's effects.  Utility of the Neuralchek system offered a level of validation by its ability to monitor vital reactions (in real time) from the BrainTap experience.

Upon earshot, Michael Porter was engaged in a discussion with a man in his mid-to-late 30's who just awoke from the BrainTap meditative state.  He presented the subject with "Neuralchek" readings of what appeared to be his complete nervous system.  His first screen indicated STRESS LEVELS- explaining the suggested range should be between 10-100 points.  Mr. Porter explains that through his career, the average American scanned with this device ranges anywhere from 300-500 points with some reaching as high as 2-3000 points, hence the need for BrainTap.

His first screen was labelled "the AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM"- which displayed detailed pie charts of  the  user's STRESS INDEX and ANS BALANCE INDEX  concurrently. These parametric studies reported on the patient's present conditions [measured with band frequencies HF (high), VLF (very low) and LF (low) reports] around the Sympathetic, Parasympathetic and Neurohormonal activation levels. The biometric data was harvested by the device's BIOFEEDBACK design, offering a priceless asset to a wide range of clinical analysts, clinical researchers and patient care professionals.  Where conventional means of acquiring this level of neuro-data was originally captured from INVASIVE measures such as Electrocorticography (ECoG), Microelectrode Arrays (MEAs) or Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), the  impressive Neuralchek's non-invasive method shows to be a profound innovation for real-time neuro health reporting on the field. 

A pie chart on his first screen described the parasympathetic (in green), the sympathetic (in yellow) and the neurohormonal backup system (in red).  The current study shows an elevated measurement correlating to an irregularity in sleep.  The application interface also offered comparative metrics where one's readings should be in healthy state.

Mr. Porter emphasized that studying the brain's sleep capacity is well supported by the medical community, especially from professionals who support the use of NEUROFEEDBACK. "We need for the brain to disengage during sleep to allow for optimal brain health and optimal rest/recovery.  Whereby accumulated tiredness affects overall energy, lowered neuro-hormonals have been known to affect daily performance and restorative health & sustainability."

His next screens reported an expanded set of deeper scans including: the PSYCHOEMOTIONAL STATE (stress capacity & balancing), NEUROHUMORAL REGULATION (energy stability & balance) , METABOLISM (displaying anabolic and catabolic readings) and FRACTAL ANALYSIS (Harmonization, Biorhythms and Biological Age studies). "Studying the autonomic nervous system... it kicks in to make you feel alert, live and awake. But you don't want to do this long term because this system is only designed to help out in emergencies. It's your backup generator." The same screen also shows other vital readings and parameters including the neurohormonal backup and inflammatory markers/index.

Eye on Medical Innovations: WOUND HEALING and the ARTIFICIAL SKIN

FOREWORD

By: Dr. Robert Bard

As a clinical researcher and a medical validator, my unique commitment to explore new medical innovations often introduces me to some of the most ground-breaking technologies and the best and brightest clinical or engineering minds behind them.  I am tasked to validate their efficacy with medical imaging and report on their ability to integrate with our current modalities.  

In the spring of 2024, I traveled to Montreal Canada (McGill University and Concordia Univ.) to meet Dr. Jose Ramirez-GarciaLuna, "The Wound Scientist"- who was undergoing dedicated clinical evaluation efforts to measure the severity of burn wounds. Helped me uncover the intricacies of wound healing and the many resources that comprise this highly valued study.  His work led to the use of infrared thermography to identify soft tissue viability to assess burn depth.  In support of this project, he also introduced the impressive properties and effects of the highly developed SYNTHETIC SKIN- what is obviously a major game-changer in burn care and traumatic injuries.

A PARADIGM SHIFT IN WOUND CARE

Dr. Jose L. Ramirez-GarciaLuna

Polymedics Innovations (https://polymedics.com/) is a German company based in Stuttgart and is the leading medical device company specializing in synthetic skin substitutes for wound and burn care. Their flagship products, Suprathel and Supra SDRM, are designed to promote better and more rapid wound healing and improve patient outcomes in challenging clinical scenarios. These polymeric synthetic skin substitutes provide a controlled environment conducive to tissue regeneration and minimize the risks associated with traditional biological grafts. The products are composed 75% of poly-lactic acid, which is a safe biological material approved by the FDA since the '50s and widely used in sutures, implantable devices and prosthetic joints, and 25% other FDA-approved structural polymers.

Being fully synthetic means the products do not contain human or animal tissue, cells, proteins, peptides, or growth factors. They are designed and engineered in the company's lab; therefore, unlike biological materials, there is consistency in every single batch of products. Also, because they are devoid of a biological origin, they can easily be applied to people who cannot be treated with human or porcine-derived products due to personal or religious preferences. Finally, the skin substitutes are composed of large chain polymers, meaning that there is virtually no risk of allergy or immunological reactions to the material.

While fully synthetic, Polymnedics' skin substitutes exert profound biological effects through their degradation. As these products integrate and get degraded by the native tissue in the wound bed, their polylactic acid chains get cleaved down to lactide monomers, which in turn are metabolized to lactate by surrounding cells. Lactate has traditionally been regarded as a waste product of cellular metabolism; however, mounting evidence demonstrates it exerts potent effects: 1) it induces the formation of new blood vessels (neo-angiogenesis); 2) it promotes cell survival, proliferation, and deposition of extracellular matrix; 3) it regulates the inflammatory environment; and 4) acidifies the extracellular environment through the conversion f lactate into lactic acid. Taken together, these effects are translated into faster and better wound healing.

Suprathel, a synthetic, resorbable epidermal membrane, is commonly used to treat superficial and partial-thickness burns and donor sites for skin grafts. Its flexible, transparent structure conforms closely to wound surfaces, providing effective protection while allowing gas exchange and maintaining moisture balance. This creates an optimal microenvironment for healing, significantly reduces pain, and eliminates the need for frequent dressing changes, significantly improving patient comfort. Clinical studies have shown that Suprathel supports rapid re-epithelialization, reduces scarring compared to traditional dressings, and reduces the need for opioid medication in burn patients.

Supra SDRM (Synthetic Dermal Regeneration Matrix) expands on these advantages for deeper injuries, complex soft tissue defects due to infection or trauma, and chronic wounds such as venous leg ulcers and diabetic ulcers. Its high porosity is ideally suited to enhance cell adhesion, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix deposition, leading to healing soft tissue and dermal structures. Clinical evidence demonstrates that Supra SDRM reduces by half the time needed to achieve the complete closure of chronic wounds while lowering costs and providing a higher quality of life.

After cleaning and debridement, the wounded areas were covered with Suprathel(R) membranes. Suprathel(R) initially looks white and opaque, but as it heats up to the body's temperature, it becomes translucent, allowing the visualization of the wound bed and monitoring of wound healing. It is designed to stay in place for 10 to 14 days, after which it self-degrades and may require re-application. Shortly after application, the patient reported a significant decrease in the associated pain. The material self-adheres only to wounds and conforms to the wound bed, as seen in the image. Supra Net(R) was then used as a non-adhesive, non-contact layer to protect the graft. Supra Net(R) is a highly porous silicon-nylon mesh with good adherence to intact skin and very low adherence to Suprathel and wounded areas. It is ideal for ensuring intimate contact of the synthetic skin to the wound bed and allowing fluid exchange. These layers are then covered by a secondary dressing that can be changed as often as needed until the next visit to the clinic.

SUPRATHEL® is purely synthetic and therefore does not bear any residual risks as is the case with biological products of human or animal origin. Literature suggests that lactate may stimulate the healing process by supporting angiogenesis1-6 and the re-building of the dermis. The potential of lactate to act as a free radical scavenger and therefore to be able to reduce oxidative stress.

These synthetic skin substitutes represent a paradigm shift in wound care. Their ability to mimic the biological functions of human skin, combined with the bioactive properties of components like lactate, makes them a versatile and effective option for treating burns and chronic wounds. They improve healing outcomes while reducing complications and treatment costs.

DR. JOSE L. RAMIREZ-GARCIALUNA earned his MD and an MSc in epidemiology and biostatistics from Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi, in Mexico. He practiced for five years as an emergency and critical care physician before earning a Ph.D. in experimental surgery at McGill University, Canada. In addition, he holds graduate diplomas in surgical innovation, machine learning, and data science. Dr. Ramirez-GarciaLuna's areas of expertise include wound healing research, the immunology of wound healing, surgical innovation, and e-Health. For the past 10-years, he has used spectral imaging, infrared thermography, machine learning, and artificial intelligence for a plethora of surgical problems, including wound healing and COVID-19 infection detection. He has authored over 80 peer-reviewed articles, and his research has been awarded multiple accolades, including McGill University's Rising Star Award and the distinction as a Fellow of the Mexican National Council for Science and Technology. Dr. Ramirez-Garcialuna is the Director of Medical Affairs for Polymedics Innovations, a company focused on developing synthetic skin substitutes, and is a medical and scientific consultant for several biotech companies. He is also affiliated with the Division of Experimental Surgery of McGill University, Canada and as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Surgery of Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi, Mexico.

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Part 2:

MULTI-IMAGING REVIEW FOR WOUND HEALING & INFLAMMATORY SKIN DISORDERS

From a recorded interview with DR. ROBERT L. BARD (of BardDiagnostics lab)

INTRODUCTION: The following is an abridged private performance study of a multi-diagnostic reporting paradigm of thermographic imaging (FLIR) and ultrasound/ 3D Doppler microvascular blood flow imaging (CANON) to report on various wound healing applications.  Dr. Robert Bard, functional diagnostic imaging specialist partnered with Dr. Jose Garcialuna in the implementation of image-guided treatments of a traumatic and inflammatory skin disorders and the application of synthetic skin.   This study was performed in a closed setting under strict monitoring of the patient’s time-based progress. The collaboration between the diagnostic team and Dr. Garcialuna supports the use of multi-factorial data to detect treatment efficacy and improved recovery time alongside the severity of the pathological condition of the subject/patient. Comparison of the bilateral inflammatory changes on this patient with hemolytic autoimmune anemia (which flared after trauma to the dorsum of the left foot) shows that the lower tibial area is wet and inflamed - a so-called weeping or active wound.  The left foot, whose magnification [image #1] shows that the wounds are dry as compared to the weeping wound.

ABSTRACT: Inflammatory disease of the skin, which includes burns and diseases like psoriasis demonstrates thickened epidermis and dermis with increased intra and subdermal vascularity - all of which are measured by the out flow imaging and verified by other micro-imaging device technologies to confirm the epidermal and dermal extent of the disease. The blood flow, quantified either by 4-D ultrasound or by the optical vascular imaging may be used as a marker of treatment and noninvasive guide to adjust therapy without biopsy. 

For example, when the wound heals, there is less blood flow.  The inflamed skin at 1200 magnification on the vivo light microscopic camera used for high resolution imaging captures surface texture irregularity.

THERMOGRAPHY represents healing wound physiology as follows: inflamed areas are higher temperature (lighter color) while healing tissue or are starting to ‘fibrose’ and scar down are identified as darker colors. These measurements serve as treatment guides of inflammation before, during, and after treatment as part of a noninvasive methodology to follow up in post-care. [Image #3] Thermographic imaging (with a high resolution FLIR or infrared camera) indicates specific areas that appear dark, indicating that the wound is starting to fibrose due to elevated blood supply.

[Image #4 R-L] REFLECTANCE CONFOCAL MICROSCOPY shows inflammatory disease neovascularity with cutaneous lupus. The red and black scans (#4-L) with high resolution OCT or OPTICAL COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY images of the inflammatory blood supply documents, which subsides in intensity as the wound is healing. 

[Image #5] 3D DOPPLER ULTRASOUND IMAGING represents the dermal edema (arrow) and the subcutaneous tissues with hypervascularity.  This includes a major vessel that is hypertrophied - supplying the inflamed tissues in the center right with a bright yellow image of the blood flow surrounded by a darker area of inflammatory edematous inflammatory disease is focused at the deeper level, which is impossible to see with the human eye and certainly best image with 3D, ultrasound and doppler. 

ROBERT L. BARD, MD is internationally recognized in the field of 3D DOPPLER ULTRASOUND IMAGING to detect cancers (in organs including the breast, prostate, skin, thyroid, melanoma and other areas). As a certified diagnostic radiologist, Dr. Bard evolved his practice to pursue non-invasive 3D imaging with ultrasound, MRI and laser technologies. He is also passionate about conducting educational presentations and publishing in International Medical Journals. Dr. Bard currently holds various medical licenses (in NY, NJ, CT and FLa) and holds Board certification from the American Board of Radiology (1974) and Fellowship in the American Society of Lasers in Medicine and Surgery (2014).https://drrobertbard.com/

Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Individuals with a Cancer Diagnosis

 Dr. Jess Sabrowsky DNP, RN, FNP-BC

Do you know someone undergoing treatment for cancer? You might be asking what you can do to help. It is known that the brain and tissues in the body are affected when oxygen saturation levels dip below 90% because oxygen is not getting to the cells or brain. Now you ask, what is the purpose of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)? HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment helps the lungs collect and circulate more oxygen throughout the body offering countless health benefits: improving brain fog, helps wounds and damaged tissues by supporting the body to build new blood vessels, eliminate toxins and prevent infections. While it is not a cure for cancer, HBOT can serve as a complementary therapy that enhances the overall treatment experience and supports healing in various ways. Coupled with Pulse Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF), HBOT can “supercharge” the body, optimizing cellular function and promoting overall health. Here is a summary of the key benefits of HBOT:

1. Enhanced Oxygen Delivery: Cancer cells thrive in low-oxygen environments, and HBOT increases oxygen levels in the body. This enhanced oxygen delivery can improve the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy. By providing a higher concentration of oxygen, HBOT can make cancer cells more sensitive to these treatments, potentially leading to better outcomes.

2. Improved Wound Healing: Individuals undergoing cancer treatments often experience delayed healing, particularly after surgeries or radiation therapy. HBOT promotes the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) and enhances collagen formation, which can accelerate wound healing. Improved healing can lead to fewer complications and a better quality of life for patients.

3. Reduction of Radiation Side Effects: Radiation therapy can cause side effects, including tissue damage and radiation burns. HBOT has been shown to mitigate some of these adverse effects by promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation. Patients receiving HBOT prior to and in conjunction with radiation therapy may experience less pain and faster recovery times.

4. Decreased Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is associated with cancer progression and treatment side effects. HBOT has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort in patients. By decreasing inflammation, HBOT may improve overall comfort and enhance the patient’s ability to tolerate other treatments.

5. Immune System Support: HBOT can stimulate the immune system, enhancing its ability to fight infections and disease. For cancer patients, a robust immune response is crucial, especially as treatments like chemotherapy can weaken immune function. By supporting immune health, HBOT may help reduce the risk of infections, leading to better overall health during treatment.

6. Pain Relief: Many cancer patients experience chronic pain as a result of their illness or treatment side effects. HBOT has been reported to alleviate pain by promoting healing and reducing inflammation. Patients may find relief from pain, making it easier to engage in daily activities and maintain a positive outlook.

7. Psychological Benefits: Cancer can take a significant toll on mental health, leading to anxiety and depression. The experience of undergoing HBOT can provide patients with a sense of control over their treatment and a proactive approach to their health. Additionally, the therapeutic environment of the hyperbaric chamber may foster relaxation and stress relief, contributing to improved mental well-being.

8. Enhanced Quality of Life: By addressing various side effects and complications associated with cancer and its treatments, HBOT can significantly improve the quality of life for patients. From reducing pain and inflammation to speeding up recovery and enhancing overall health, the holistic benefits of HBOT can empower patients to better manage their condition and maintain an active lifestyle.

9. Overall, Health Optimization with PEMF: When combined with Pulse Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF), HBOT can further enhance overall health by optimizing cellular function. PEMF therapy promotes cellular regeneration, improves brain health, and aids in recovery by enhancing blood circulation and reducing pain. Together, HBOT and PEMF allow the body to prepare for surgery, accelerate post-operative healing, and reduce complications. This powerful combination can lead to improved mental clarity, energy levels, and overall well-being.

10. Potential for Combination Therapy

HBOT can be integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan alongside conventional cancer therapies. This combination approach may enhance the efficacy of treatments, improve patient outcomes, and provide a more supportive environment for healing. Patients should consult with their oncologist to determine how HBOT can fit into their overall care plan.

Conclusion: While hyperbaric oxygen therapy is not a standalone treatment for cancer, its benefits can significantly enhance the overall treatment experience for individuals with a diagnosis of cancer. From improving oxygen delivery and promoting wound healing to reducing inflammation and supporting immune function, HBOT offers a range of advantages that can lead to better health outcomes. When paired with PEMF therapy, patients can achieve even greater health optimization at the cellular level, “super-charging the body” improving brain health and expediting recovery. Patients considering HBOT should consult their healthcare providers to explore its potential as part of a comprehensive cancer treatment strategy. By embracing innovative therapies like HBOT and PEMF, individuals with cancer can take proactive steps towards improving their health and well-being during their cancer journey and beyond.

Northport Wellness Center Alliance Member, Dr. Jess Sabrowsky founded direct primary care (DPC) practice, Dr. Jess Empowered Health & Wellness, to improve the lives of individuals. She delivers exceptional integrative functional family wellness care, while offering unique health prevention assessments focused on promoting overall wellness and improving longevity. Dr. Jess believes the relationship between the provider and client helps build optimal health. Dr. Jess takes extraordinary pride in ensuring her clients’ experience is second to none. When a client signs up to be a member of Dr. Jess Empowered Health & Wellness, they have the opportunity to build a relationship with a trusted team dedicated to offer empowered, non-judgmental healthcare.

HealthTech Mentorship Journal: What is a PAPIMI?

By: Leslie Valle-Montoya 

I recently returned from an enriching 8-day seminar in Schwellbrunn, Switzerland, held by Swiss Biological Medicine expert, Dr. Thomas Rau (L). This international seminar brought together 30 colleagues from 11 countries, with half the attendees being Biological Dentists, creating a vibrant, interdisciplinary learning environment.

The seminar covered a comprehensive range of techniques and insights into Bioenergetic treatments, identifying Root Causes of illness, IV infusions, Biological Dentistry, and Darkfield microscopy. One of the highlights was my introduction to a new device, the PAPIMI PEMF (R), which is unlike typical PEMF devices due to its use of low Tesla and high induction technology. This ion induction therapy works on the cell membrane potential for optimal cell metabolism.  I’m excited to bring this innovative tool into my practice in the coming year, as I deepen my approach to addressing root causes in patient care.

A healthy cell needs sufficient cell membrane voltage (approximately -70mV to -90mV) to maintain its regulatory processes. All illnesses and injuries have one thing in common: cells begin to lose cell membrane potential (energy). This is why I include pulsed electromagnetic field therapy for all my patients, as it enables the cell to resume regulatory processes, exchange trace elements, and produce essential energy molecules.

One crucial point we addressed in healing was the significance of silent infections in the dental field. I am trained to assess and address dental health as it can be a root cause of illness and dysregulation. This is critical! Among my colleagues in Biological Medicine, we found that over 90% of breast cancer patients—and many other cancer diagnoses—have either dental toxicity or old root canals as part of the "root cause" of illness, often without any dental symptoms. As long as dental disturbances are not resolved, the risk of cancer recurrence is significantly higher.

I wanted to share a few topics and techniques I was exposed to while on my trip to Switzerland as I truly believe this is true medicine.  Finding the root cause rather than merely chasing symptoms is essential, as is the importance of preventative medicine; much inflammation can be asymptomatic for years before a diagnosis is received. 

(L) View of live blood under Darkfield Microscopy, a technique to enhance contrast in specimens that are not imaged well under normal illumination processes. Live blood drop is analyzed using a high-resolution microscope to study the present state of our cells.

Dental plaque of a cancer patient under Darkfield Microscopy - A study of persons oral “milieu” to analyze relevant signs of silent inflammation, microbiome dysfunction and what components are present in dental plaque of a patient with breast cancer. 

  

*Neural therapy is the treatment of pain and other illnesses by finding and treating disturbances in the body’s electrical system. These disturbances are called interference fields, which are a result of autonomic nervous system responses. Neural therapy involves the injection of a local anesthetic mixed with other ingredients into the interference fields. The theory behind neural therapy is that trauma can cause long-term disruption of the electrochemical function of cells and tissue, resulting in dysfunction, and the goals are to correct the interference and facilitate healing.

 

Heart Rate Variability

VIDEO BANK

Dr. Jess/Hyperbaric

Prof: Langer

Dr. Berka on Recurrence

Photobiomodulation and Skin Cancer: Summary of Current Evidence

INTRODUCTION- The Integrative Health Research Center/IHRC in NYC conducted a 2-year performance study in the use of various LED-based near-infrared light health devices.  The test was aptly named "Scan & Treat" whereby each model was tested on consenting subjects (as directed by its accompanying instructions and training programs). Brands ranged in frequency and design supporting various health claims.  All devices under review presented documentation and instructions based on each manufacturer's standard testing policies as approved by regulatory agencies for public market.

As part of any device research protocol, standard interest for user safety led to this micro-inquiry/survey of these devices, exploring the probability of injury and risk.  This, our evaluators seek any form of published evidence about the risks in applying radiative energy frequency and laser directly exposed to the skin within any close proximity.  Though designed for supposed therapeutic results, our challengers wish to explore any research concluding probable cause for concern or any form of negative effect.

Additional concern is PBMT's effects on cancers, especially skin cancers and melanoma where direct exposure of this 'light therapy' on an infected area may awaken or aggravate the cancer's  malignancy. Where PBMT is identified on the market (and with the brand's marketing claims) to reduce inflammation, an adverse concern is for the potential unknowns of a tumor's aggressiveness to be provoked by the device's exposure.

The following are statements and findings from a 2nd and 3rd level academic data search.  All references and expanded details are accessible by the links enclosed.

SAFETY INQUIRY/REVIEW (10-19-2024)
An academic research/report by:
Dr. Roberta Kline - editor, HealthTech Reporter / Women's Health Digest

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is the currently accepted term for the use of near (visible) or near infrared light to stimulate physiological processes in biological tissues. It is also often called low-level laser therapy (LLLT), which was introduced in the 1960’s. [De Pauli Paglioni, et al]

LED (Light Emitting Diode) is often included in PBMT and while around since the late 1920’s it is only since the late 1960’s that it has been used therapeutically. Its use is increasing in therapeutic applications as it is less expensive than laser. [De Pauli Paglioni, et al]

They both operate within defined spectrums of light, with visible red being 600-700 nm and near-infrared (NIR) being 700-1400nm. These wavelengths correspond to the maximal absorption of skin without creating heat.  [Torres, Angeli E et al.]

While there are differences between LLLT and LED, they have been found to be equally effective in many use cases, including wound healing, inflammation, and pain relief. [Torres, Angeli E et al.]

Table 1 source: Torres, Angeli E et al.

MECHANISM OF ACTION
PBMT works via absorption by mitochondrial chromophores including Cytochrome c oxidase and flavoenzymes, which facilitate electron transport and ATP synthesis. It also is involved in release of nitric oxide (NO) which is involved in mitochondrial antioxidant defense and would account for clinical and research observations that PBMT helps to mitigate oxidative damage from radiation or chemotherapy. Gene expression influenced to enhance regeneration and repair, including cell proliferation & migration, immune and angiogenesis. [Glass GE.]

Cells with higher concentrations of mitochondria appear to require lower doses for therapeutic effects, whereas cells such as fibroblasts and keratinocytes require more due to lower mitochondrial density. [Glass GE]

PBMT AND CANCER
Multiple cell culture and animal studies have shown that PBMT has little or no effect on cancer cell viability, nor does it induce neoplastic changes in normal cells. The rare studies that showed a possible effect were in animals with compromised immune systems. [Glass GE]

A large review published by Bensadoun RJ et al in 2020 showed that animal studies and clinical trials support the safety of PBMT related to tumor growth, and may even be beneficial for overall survival in patients with cancer. The conflicting results from a few in vitro cell culture studies were felt to be related to doses outside of normal clinical use, and thus not relevant to safety in humans.

In 2022, a position paper from the WALT Congress [Robijns J et al.] stated that PBMT has been shown to have a biphasic dose-response, with lower doses having potentially less effect and higher doses having potentially no beneficial or even adverse effects, that warrants further clinical research to clarity optimal dosage.

They also stated that the genetic variability of individual tumors, as revealed by the technology of precision oncology, may contribute to variable response to PBMT. Indeed, some tumors have genetic variations in genes that are targeted by PBMT, such as PI3K. One example is squamous cell cancers of the mouth, where up to 35% of tumors have alterations in the PI3K pathway. Thus, further research with this more individualized approach is needed and should replace one-size-fits-all approaches.

Their conclusion was that, although PBMT is generally safe for patients with cancer, there is a lack of definitive evidence regarding potential enhancement of tumor growth and long-term survival, thus more clinical trials and robust data regarding use with cancer are needed. They also specifically did not recommend direct treatments to the tumor, and advised that all patients should be fully informed of the potential benefits and risks.

 

References:

1) Glass GE. Photobiomodulation: A Systematic Review of the Oncologic Safety of Low-Level Light Therapy for Aesthetic Skin Rejuvenation. Aesthet Surg J. 2023 Apr 10;43(5):NP357-NP371. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjad018.

2) De Pauli Paglioni, Mariana, et al. "Tumor Safety and Side Effects of Photobiomodulation Therapy Used for Prevention and Management of Cancer Treatment Toxicities. A Systematic Review." Oral Oncology, vol. 93, 2019, pp. 21-28, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oraloncology.2019.04.004.

3) Torres, Angeli E., and Henry W. Lim. "Photobiomodulation for the Management of Hair Loss." Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine, vol. 37, no. 2, 2021, pp. 91-98, https://doi.org/10.1111/phpp.12649.

4) Bensadoun RJ, Epstein JB, Nair RG, et al. World Association for Laser Therapy (WALT). Safety and efficacy of photobiomodulation therapy in oncology: A systematic review. Cancer Med. 2020 Nov;9(22):8279-8300. doi: 10.1002/cam4.3582.

5) Robijns, Jolien, et al. "Photobiomodulation Therapy in Management of Cancer Therapy-induced Side Effects: WALT Position Paper 2022." Frontiers in Oncology, vol. 12, 2022, p. 927685, https://doi.org/10.3389/fonc.2022.927685