A landmark inter-national trial led by Australian researchers has found that light therapy can significantly improve mobility, mood and quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s disease – offering new hope for those affected by the world’s fastest-growing neurological condition.
The 72-week randomised controlled trial, conducted at the Parkinson’s Wellness Innovation Centre in Ontario, Canada, tested non-invasive light therapy devices developed by Sydney MedTech company SYMBYX Biome.
The results showed participants who continued light therapy for several months improved their functional mobility by 14 per cent, compared with a 5 per cent decline in those who stopped.
Parkinson’s severity scores improved by 20 per cent in the continuing group, while anxiety symptoms eased by 11 per cent – underlining physical and emotional benefits.
“His quality of life has substantially improved, there is just no doubt about that,” said Ruth, carer for Peter, who took part in the study.
“I found with the light treatment, I had much more energy,” added another participant, Andy.
Researchers say the findings add to growing evidence that light therapy, when used alongside exercise, could be a safe complementary treatment for Parkinson’s symptoms.
“These results provide further support for the use of light as a safe, effective, research-based treatment,” said Anita Saltmarche, Co-Principal Investigator.
“Participants demonstrated significant improvements in both motor and non-motor symptoms, resulting in meaningful changes to daily life.”
Fellow researcher Orla Hares said the data was especially encouraging because it used gold-standard Parkinson’s measures.
“It allows us to confidently implement therapies in the clinic that we know make a real difference in our clients,” she said.
