FAQs

All
Parkinson's
Light therapy
Customer care
Clinical support
All
All
Parkinson's
Light therapy
Customer care
Clinical support
I have Parkinson’s. Do I use the SYMBYX Neuro or the PDCare?

The PDCare laser is our hand-held infrared laser device. It is considered the primary therapy for the reduction in Parkinson’s symptoms. There is peer-reviewed evidence to show a potential reduction in both motor and non-motor symptoms from consistent usage. PDCare is also a registered medical device. This is why we recommend you start with the PDCare, and the SYMBYX Neuro red/infrared helmet should be considered as a complementary device. It was recently shown by the SAN Hospital to be effective in reducing several Parkinson’s symptoms. We encourage customers to use both devices together, following our proprietary SYMBYX protocol. SYMBYX Neuro is a wellness device and recommended for increasing PDCare effectiveness and for overall cognitive health.

I have Parkinson's, what device do I buy?

If you are living with Parkinson's, we recommend starting with the PDCare or DuoCare. These two devices are approved for the reduction of Parkinson's symptoms via our Gut-Brain Protocol. The SYMBYX Neuro has been designed to complement the PDCare/DuoCare, and can be purchased as a bundle.

I purchased a PDCare, can I use it for pain?

Yes, you can. You can find instructions on how to do this on page 16 and 17 of your Instruction Manual. If you have a lot of pain or inflammation to treat, we recommend the DuoCare device instead. The DuoCare is more effective than the PDCare at treating pain and inflammation, is rechargeable, and can perform the Parkinson's protocol in 7 minutes as opposed to 20 minutes. If you have any questions, please contact our Clinical Support team.

If I stop using the treatment, will my symptoms come back?

Unfortunately there is no cure yet for Parkinson's disease. Light therapy helps reduce Parkinson's symptoms by improving the cell's functional capacity to produce dopamine and restoring a healthy gut-brain connection. With a neurodegenerative condition like Parkinson's, the therapy constantly tries to boost the function of the cells while the body simultaneously tries to shut them down. This is why it's important that the therapy is continued on a consistent and regular basis. Research has now shown that people who continued to use SYMBYX light therapy for over 3 years maintained their benefits - which is extraordinary for a neurodegenerative condition!

How do I start SYMBYX light therapy for Parkinson's?

Once you receive your device, simply follow the instructions provided to get started! SYMBYX light therapy does not interfere with Parkinson's medication and has been designed to easily integrate into your day. We would recommend checking our Safety and Contraindications or reaching out to our Clinical Support team if you have any questions or concerns.

How long until I see results?

Depending on what you are treating, some people begin to notice improvements in as little as 1-2 weeks. If you are using the PDCare or DuoCare for Parkinson's, most customers see results in 10-12 weeks. For pain-related conditions, treatment typically takes 4-8 weeks.

Why do some people see results faster than others?

In relation to light therapy for Parkinsons, it is important to remeber that no two people are exactly the same. There are many impacting factors to consider including demographics, history of diagnosis, stage of disease, comorbidities, concurrent treatment regimes, diet, activity levels, sleep patterns and more. Therefore, some people tend to respond more quickly to the therapy, while for others it can take longer to notice improvements. Light therapy is just like exercise or eating well: consistency is key. There is a cumulative effect, and further improvements may be experienced over time.

Is light therapy different to photobiomodulation?

Photobiomodulation and light therapy refer to the same thing. Photobiomodulation is the scientific term for the cellular effects that occur during light therapy. You may also hear light therapy get described as 'red or infrared light therapy', 'low-level laser therapy', 'laser light therapy', or 'cold laser'. It's sometimes called 'laser' therapy to describe the use of laser diodes, rather than LEDs. Laser diodes, such as the 904nm diodes used in many of the SYMBYX devices, are more effective and penetrate more deeply than LED panels, which is mostly absorbed by the skin. However, it's not the same kind of laser treatment that's used by beauticians or in surgery - these kinds of treatments use extremely powerful laser diodes to burn off cells (in the case of eye surgery, for example, laser is used to help remove cataracts). SYMBYX light therapy is considered 'low-level laser therapy', or 'cold laser' as the diodes do not heat up and damage cells at all; rather, it solely focuses on stimulating the cell's natural ability to heal and repair. This is why you can't go wrong with SYMBYX light therapy: it's safer, painless, and easy-to-use. It's designed to be done in the comfort of your own home!

I can’t see the laser light, how do I know its working?

Infrared light is invisible to the naked eye, so you will not be able to see the light being emitted from the device. In order to indicate to you that the device is emitting infrared light, you will see a band of blue light around the PhysioCare or PDCare respectively. The DuoCare and ProSeries also have non-therapeutic lights to indicate that the device is turned on and emitting, which you'll also be able to read on the LED panel. Please note that with all laser light devices, we do not recommend looking directly into the diodes.

What is the difference between red light and infrared light?

Red light and infrared light are found side by side on the light spectrum. Red light has a wavelength range of 620-750nm and is visible to the human eye. Infrared light sits just outside the visible light spectrum (which means it is not visible to the human eye) and has a wavelength of 780nm-1000nm. Both are safe to the human body, and have therapeutic uses. At SYMBYX we use a range of red light and infrared light wavelengths for different conditions.

What are the differences between the lasers?

Check out our product comparison to help decide which light therapy device is best suited for you.

Have SYMBYX lasers been safety tested?

Yes, all our devices have passed international safety testing. Our devices are all CE marked and ISO compliant. Our handheld laser range (PDCare, PhysioCare, DermaCare, DuoCare and ProSeries) also approved as medical devices.

Why isn’t light therapy widely accepted?

Light therapy is not new. In fact, light has been used medically for over 100 years, and medical laser has existed for over 30+ years. It's used in clinics and hospitals to treat injuries, pain, infections, to perform surgery, and even to improve recovery and performance by sporting teams. However, home-use light therapy devices for Parkinson's is more recent. SYMBYX Biome has the only medically-approved light therapy devices for a reduction in Parkinson's symptoms in the world. The first ever trial showing significant improvements in people with Parkinson's using the PDCare was published in BMC Neurology in 2021. These original participants continue to be monitored, and continue to demonstrate improvements even after 3 years. There have also been numerous other publications since then supporting these original findings. SYMBYX Biome is proud to be pioneering light therapy innovations for Parkinson's, and our commitment to science and research is at the core of everything we do.

How do I use my device?

Upon delivery, you will receive everything you need to get started with your SYMBYX light therapy. All SYMBYX light therapy devices come with a User Guide or Instruction Manual, protocol sheets and a protective case.

Is laser light therapy suitable for children?

It is SYMBYX policy only to advise a course of treatment after consideration of all the relevant safety and contraindication information. The minimum recommended age for a course of treatment is generally the legal consent age. There are circumstances, however, when a legal parent/guardian may wish to treat a person under the legal consent age. While there is no clear minimum cut-off age for safe light therapy tolerance, we do not recommend that any person under the age of 12 uses the therapy unless it has been fully discussed and approved in advance by the patient’s primary care physician. If a patient under the legal consent age is considered for light therapy treatment, such therapy should only be done under supervision by the legal parent/guardian.

What should I expect when I start using light therapy?

Our devices are painless, so you should not feel anything during treatment. Many customers note that there is an immediate sense of calm from using the therapy as their body begins to heal and repair. Improvements such as increased energy, better sleep, reduced stress and less brain fog can be noted in as little as 1-2 weeks, and up to 10-12 weeks for most Parkinson's symptoms. It all depends on what you're treating. If you have any questions, please contact our team.

Do I need to wear safety glasses while using the lasers?

Safety glasses are recommended when using our more powerful, clinical-grade DuoCare 904 and ProSeries devices. Protective glasses are provided with all DuoCare 904 and ProSeries orders. The PDCare, PhysioCare and DermaCare do not require you to wear safety glasses. In saying this, we still do not recommend shining the laser directly into your eyes.

How long is each treatment time?

Treatment time varies, depending on which device you are using and what you are looking to treat. Simply follow our easy-to-use protocols, provided with every purchase, or contact our Clinical Support team. Generally, treatment lasts 4-24 minutes per day, 3-5 times per week. SYMBYX light therapy has been designed to be simple and convenient: effectively treat your condition in the comfort of your own home while watching TV, reading a book or having a chat.

Can I use the laser every day?

It depends which device you are using and which treatment protocol you are following. The Parkinson's Gut-Brain protocol should be used 3 days per week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday), with a day's rest in between each treatment session. More light therapy is not always better, so we strongly recommend sticking to our research-backed protocols that are provided with each device. Please reach out to our team if you require assistance.

If I use the laser more will I get better results?

More is not always better. When it comes to light therapy, there is a 'Goldilocks' effect: it's important to get the dosage just right, as too little or too much both cause diminishing returns. We call this a biphasic dose response. This is why following the science is so important, and research is at the core of everything we do. Our protocols and recommendations are evidence-based and clinically-backed. If you need further assistance with your SYMBYX light therapy treatment, you can contact our Clinical Support team anytime.

Is light therapy safe?

Light therapy has an very high safety profile. In over 6000+ studies on medical laser light therapy to date, there have never been any serious adverse events reported. This is why it's proving to be such a promising therapy, with over 40+ new studies published per month. A small minority of people may experience transient symptoms of tenderness or Dysautonomia, particularly in people with Parkinson's. These symptoms are temporary, and usually resolve within 7 days with a break from the therapy. If you believe you might be experiencing dysautonomia, please take a break from light therapy, and contact our team immediately. Our Clinical Support team will then be in touch to advise further. All our lasers have passed international safety testing. All our devices and helmets are CE marked and ISO compliant. Our handheld laser range (PDCare, PhysioCare, DermaCare, DuoCare and ProSeries) are also approved as medical devices.

Do the SYMBYX lasers have regulatory clearance?

Yes, all our devices have passed international safety testing and are CE marked and ISO compliant. Our handheld range (PDCare, PhysioCare, DermaCare, DuoCare and ProSeries) are also approved as medical laser devices.

How fast should I see changes?

It takes on average 10-12 weeks to begin noticing improvements in Parkinson's symptoms. Some customers begin noticing improvements in as little as 1-2 weeks, and might comment on having more energy, less brain fog, better digestion, less pain, and better sleep. For most people, however, the improvements are much more gradual. For some, rather than a night and day difference, what they notice is a decrease in their rate of decline, which, for a neurodegenerative condition, is still a positive result.

Will light therapy fix tremor?

The triple-blinded randomised-controlled trial completed at the SAN hospital in Sydney, Australia, using our SYMBYX Neuro helmet, found that participants had a noticeable improvement in tremor. However, no two people with Parkinson's are exactly the same, and tremor is particularly challenging to treat. It is unfortunately impossible to predict which of the symptomatic improvements any one customer may experience. Therefore, we cannot guarantee results.

I have DBS, can I use light therapy?

Yes, we have many customers with DBS using the PDCare or DuoCare and experiencing positive results. We do not recommend the SYMBYX Neuro helmet for customers with DBS unless they have received medical approval. This is only a precaution, as we prefer to err on the side of caution due to insufficient evidence supporting the application of light therapy over an implanted DBS device. If you have been given medical approval from your doctor or neurologist, we are happy for you to combine the Neuro helmet with PDCare/DuoCare treatment, under their management.

What is the difference between DuoCare & PDCare?

The DuoCare is a stronger, multi-functional device that's recommended for the person with Parkinson's also looking to treat pain and inflammation around the body. The DuoCare has been designed to effectively treat pain at 4 different depths around the body, and can complete the Parkinson's protocol in as little as 7 minutes, compared to 20 minutes with the PDCare. It's also fully rechargeable, making it the preferred option for people wanting a device that the whole house can use. Both the DuoCare and the PDCare are approved medical devices for the symptomatic management of Parkinson's disease. If you have any questions, please contact our team.

Where are the devices made?

SYMBYX devices are made in Sweden, Korea and China.

Is the laser supposed to beep twice after two minutes?

The PDCare, PhysioCare and DermaCare devices are designed to once beep after every 1 minute of treatment. If the device loses contact with your skin and the coloured light band turns off, reapply the device to the treatment area and the device will not reset but will continue treating for that minute.

Can I travel with my device?

You can. For the SYMBYX Neuro, the portable power bank should be transported in your hand luggage for safety reasons, as following the advice of most airlines. However, the helmet itself can be transported as checked luggage.To save time during transit while travelling overseas, we recommend checking in your DuoCare 904 with your luggage. The device contains a lithium ion battery, with 2 power switches and is therefore safe to be checked in. The power switches protect the device from accidentally turning on. You can also travel with the device in your hand luggage for domestic travels. Similarly, for our handheld lasers (PDCare, PhysioCare, DermaCare) and ProSeries, we advise putting it with your check in luggage.If you are unsure, please feel free to check with your airline.

My laser keeps beeping, is it broken?

If your laser device starts to beep continuously, this usually indicates that the device is low in batteries. Simply replace the batteries of the device and the beeping should conclude. If this issue continues to persist, please contact our Customer Care team and they will assist you in troubleshooting the issue.

What ongoing support is there for me?

We love hearing from our customers no matter where you are in your SYMBYX journey. We offer ongoing clinical support to all our customers using SYMBYX light therapy. You can contact us any time by email or phone.

I have questions, who do I ask?

Please reach out our Customer Support team. We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours of normal business hours.

How do I use my device?

Upon delivery, you will receive everything you need to get started with your SYMBYX light therapy. All SYMBYX light therapy devices come with a User Guide or Instruction Manual, protocol sheets and a protective case.

How do I buy a laser?

You can buy a SYMBYX device straight from our website. Simply go to 'Shop', select the light therapy device you are after, and click 'Add to Cart'. From your cart you will be able to complete your order like any other online shopping platform. If you have any issues navigating our website, please contact our Customer Service team and one of our team members will be able to assist.

What warranty is included on SYMBYX products?

Please see our warranty page, or contact our team if you have questions.

Does the warranty cover if I drop the device?

Please see our warranty page, or contact our team if you have questions.

Some customers in the testimonies have gone off medication, is it safe for me to go off medication?

We never recommend any changes to medication. All prescription changes must be advised your doctor or neurologist. Light therapy can be used while on medication and is designed to complement standard medical treatment. If you have any questions or queries, please contact our Clinical Support team.

How do I know which device is right for me?

For more information, please visit the product comparison. This will provide specific details for what each device is best suited for. You may also contact our Clinical Support team for further assistance.

Do I need to speak to a doctor before using light therapy?

You may begin SYMBYX light therapy today, without medical referral. However, please review our Safety and Contraindications page (link to safety and contraindication page). In some instances, we recommend seeking medical approval before commencing light therapy treatment, while in other cases, we do not recommend light therapy at all. Our Clinical Support team is happy to work with your doctor, neurologist and rehab team to ensure a positive outcome for you. If you need brochures or a letter for your doctor, neurologist, physical therapist, or other service provider, please contact our team.

How do I start treatment?

Once you receive your device, simply follow the instructions provided to get started! SYMBYX light therapy has been designed to easily integrate into your day. We would recommend checking our Safety and Contraindications or reaching out to our Clinical Support team if you have any questions or concerns.

Can I use SYMBYX lasers if I am on medication?

Yes. SYMBYX light therapy is designed to complement your current treatment regime. If your medication causes you to be photosensitive (sensitive to light), we recommend that you contact our Clinical Support team for further instruction.

If I feel like my symptoms are getting worse, what do I do?

If you feel like your symptoms are worsening, please take a break from the therapy, and contact our team immediately. Our SYMBYX Clinical Support team are here to provide ongoing support and guidance. Usually, these symptoms fully resolve with 1-2 weeks break from the therapy. Clinical Support will then work with you to provide ongoing support and adapt the therapy for you using a reduced dosage.

How do I know light therapy will work?

SYMBYX light therapy is backed by extensive and scientifically rigorous clinical research and is approved as medical devices for the reduction of Parkinson's, Fibromyalgia, pain and inflammation. SYMBYX also offers ongoing clinical support. No matter where you are on your SYMBYX journey, our Clinical Support team makes sure you are supported along the way and ensures you are optimising your light therapy results.

How often do I need to use the device?

The duration and frequency of treatment varies, depending on which device you are using and what you are using it to treat. We recommend contacting our Clinical Support team for further instruction.

What are the side effects of light therapy?

One of the most exciting things about SYMBYX light therapy is that it has a very high safety profile. Occasionally, if someone has a sensitive nervous system, they may experience symptoms of Dysautonomia, which is more common in neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson's. This could present as symptoms of dizziness, nausea, increased tremors, pain and increased anxiety. Symptoms almost always begin within the first week to two of commencing treatment. If this occurs, we recommend taking a break from the therapy and contacting our team immediately. Our Clinical Support team will then be in touch to advise further.

Does SYMBYX laser hurt?

No, you should not feel any pain when applying SYMYBX light therapy. If you do experience pain, it may be due to the pressure you are using on the contact point. If you do think you are experiencing pain during or after your treatment, please contact our Clinical Support team for further instruction.