Living With Dry AMD: Where PBM Therapy May Fit Into Your Treatment Plan

Living with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can bring uncertainty about how your vision may change over time. While there is currently no cure for dry AMD, careful monitoring and newer treatment options may help support retinal health and preserve vision. At Eye Care Associates in Flagstaff, AZ, we offer Photobiomodulation (PBM) Therapy as an advanced option for eligible patients with dry AMD. We are proud to be the only practice in Flagstaff offering PBM Therapy for dry macular degeneration.

Understanding Dry AMD

Dry AMD affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. As retinal tissue gradually changes and drusen deposits develop, patients may notice difficulty reading, recognizing faces, seeing fine details, or adapting to changes in lighting.

Because dry AMD can progress slowly, regular eye exams and retinal imaging are an important part of managing the condition. Monitoring allows us to track changes and determine whether additional care may be appropriate.

What Is PBM Therapy?

Photobiomodulation Therapy uses controlled wavelengths of red, yellow, and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular activity within the retina. The light is designed to support mitochondrial function and the health of retinal cells, including the retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptors.

PBM is non-invasive, drug-free, and painless. Treatment sessions take approximately eight minutes, making therapy relatively easy to incorporate into an ongoing AMD care plan.

How Could PBM Help With Dry AMD?

PBM Therapy does not cure macular degeneration, but research suggests that it may provide benefits for certain patients with early to intermediate dry AMD. Depending on the individual, potential benefits may include:

•          Helping stabilize or improve visual acuity

•          Supporting healthier retinal cell function

•          Helping slow certain structural changes associated with AMD

•          Providing a non-invasive option without injections or medications

The potential benefits appear to be greatest when PBM is considered before extensive retinal tissue loss has occurred.

Where PBM Fits Into Your AMD Treatment Plan

Dry AMD treatment is not the same for every patient. Your care plan may involve regular retinal examinations, imaging, nutritional recommendations, lifestyle changes, and monitoring for signs that the condition is progressing.

For appropriate patients in Flagstaff, PBM Therapy may be added as another tool for supporting retinal health. Before recommending a treatment plan or therapy, we perform a comprehensive retinal evaluation that includes imaging and visual function testing. This helps us determine your stage of AMD and whether PBM is a reasonable option for your individual needs.

PBM therapy is typically provided through a series of sessions, with the frequency adjusted based on your condition and response. We continue monitoring your retinal health throughout treatment so your care can be modified when necessary.

Advanced Dry AMD Care in Flagstaff

A dry AMD diagnosis does not mean you have to simply wait for your vision to change. Advances in retinal care are providing new ways to take a more proactive approach. As the only practice in Flagstaff offering PBM Therapy for dry AMD, we can help you understand whether this technology has a place in your personalized treatment plan.

If you or a loved one is living with dry AMD, schedule a consultation with Eye Care Associates to learn whether PBM Therapy may be appropriate for your vision needs. Contact our office in Flagstaff, AZ, by calling (928) 774-7949 to book appointments today.