If you suffer from chronic pain, are recovering from an injury, or are seeking relief for an ailment like arthritis, red light therapy may help you. This non-invasive and rejuvenating therapy can offer a promising alternative to traditional pain treatment methods, such as medication and surgery.
How does it work?
Red light phototherapy involves exposing the skin to low concentrations of red or near-infrared light. Unlike ultraviolet (UV) light, which can damage the skin, red light phototherapy penetrates the skin without causing harm.
The therapeutic effects of red light phototherapy are attributed to its ability to reach the deeper tissues beneath the skin. Once the red light is absorbed by the cells, it interacts with the mitochondria, also known as the "cell's energy powerhouse," to increase the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is essential for energy and cellular function. It is believed that the increase in ATP production stimulates cellular repair and regeneration processes to help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
The science behind red light phototherapy
Cell repair and growth: red light phototherapy promotes the release of nitric oxide, which can improve blood flow and oxygen supply to tissues. This process helps repair damaged cells and promotes the growth of new, healthy cells.
Reduce inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a common source of pain. Red light phototherapy has been shown to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increase the activity of anti-inflammatory ones, which reduces inflammation and pain.
Nerve regeneration: red light phototherapy can stimulate the repair and growth of nerves, which may alleviate neuropathic pain.
Muscle recovery: athletes and people recovering from muscle injuries can benefit from red light phototherapy. It can promote muscle recovery by reducing inflammation and accelerating healing.
Pain relief: chronic ailments: The efficacy of red light phototherapy has been investigated for chronic ailments such as fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis by reducing inflammation and promoting cellular repair.
Joint and muscle pain: Many athletes find relief from their sports injuries or overuse for joint pain through regular sessions with Red Light Therapy.
Back/neck and shoulder pain: Pain in the lower back, neck, or shoulders is a common ailment, and red light phototherapy can be an effective treatment option by alleviating inflammation and stimulating tissue repair.
Postoperative recovery:
Patients recovering from a surgical intervention can benefit from red light phototherapy, as it can accelerate the healing process and reduce postoperative pain and inflammation.
Red light therapy
A session usually lasts between 10 and 15 minutes and a gentle warmth may be felt on the skin, but without discomfort. The number of sessions required varies depending on the condition being treated and the individual's response to the therapy.
Safety and side effects
In general, red light phototherapy is considered safe and has minimal side effects. However, it is essential not to look directly at the light to protect the eyes and to undergo the therapy under the supervision of a qualified technician.
Is red light phototherapy suitable for you?
Constant sessions of red light phototherapy may be just what you need to relieve pain. Using the power of light to heal and alleviate discomfort, this non-invasive therapy can help reduce inflammation and promote cellular repair, while instantly boosting your mood.