Abstract: This invention relates to a method of delivering light energy to biological tissues for the acceleration of healing of damaged or diseased tissues or regeneration of such tissues. More particularly, the present invention relates to applying various wavelengths of light to articular and non-articular joints, alone, or in conjunction with techniques for restoring or regenerating cartilage, ligament and/or tendons whether in-vitro, in-situ or in-vivo. The present invention also extends to application of photo-irradiation to stimulate enhanced proliferation and site-dependent differentiation of stem cells into mature cells and to stimulate full functioning of mature cells involved in tissue repairs for regeneration of tendons, ligaments, cartilage, bone or muscle, depending on the type of tissue with which the stem cells come into contact.

Abstract: Light energy, preferably at a wavelength of 884 nanometers, is applied to the genitalia area of male and female humans and animals to treat erectile sexual dysfunction. The light causes the release of nitric oxide into the erectile genitalia tissue, and the nitric oxide causes the smooth erectile tissue to relax and engorge, thereby facilitating erection. Separately structured applicators for males and females optimize the degree of light energy penetration and the amount of nitric oxide released according to the separate physiology of males and females. The light energy may be used to augment a pharmacologically-induced release of nitric oxide.