A pilot study on the potential of photobiomodulation to safely modify symptoms of an overactive bladder.

BACKGROUND

Photobiomodulation (PBM) may stabilize autonomic neural drive from the pontine micturition Center to the urinary bladder in individuals with overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms.

METHODS

A safety profile study preceded a single-case experimental design with repeated measures across subjects to establish the safety and effect direction of PBM to modify symptoms in patients with OAB.

RESULTS

No adverse events occurred with PBM, specifically blood pressure remained unchanged. Urinary frequency improved significantly during the intervention and at follow-up. PBM therapy was associated with a meaningful impact on OAB-related quality of life and a small to medium-to-high effect size on OAB symptom severity.

CONCLUSION

Nasal application of PBM is safe and may impact OAB symptoms. A controlled trial of PBM in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms is warranted.