Red Light Therapy and Aches and Pains

Reduce aches and alleviates pains

In today’s blog we are going to talk about the relationship between Red Light Therapy and aches and pains.

• Types of pain
• Red Light Therapy for Aches and Pains
• Successful studies and applications
• Conclusion

 Types of pain 

Before getting into how RLT can help with pain, it’s worth making a distinction between the different types of pain that exist.

First we will introduce Acute pain, followed by Chronic pain and lastly, Neuropathic pain.

Red Light Therapy (RLT) has been explored by many as a complement to their wellness routines, with some users reporting positive experiences in managing various types of discomfort.

Something really important to bear in mind is that the device you use to treat your pain needs to have near infrared light to penetrate the deepest layers of  the skin.

If you don’t know the difference between red and near infrared light, check out What is red light therapy?

Understanding Red Light Therapy for Aches and Pains

Red light therapy is an approach that focuses on delivering wavelengths of light believed by some to support general well-being. Users often describe a sense of warmth and comfort during sessions, which may contribute to a feeling of relaxation.

There are usually two phases described by patients while using the lights.

Initial Phase:

Many users report feeling a gentle warmth during their RLT sessions, which they find soothing and relaxing. This sensation is often associated with a feeling of ease and comfort.

Progressive Experience:

Over time and with consistent use, some individuals report experiencing improvements in their overall sense of well-being, particularly in the context of general comfort and relaxation.

Insights from Studies on Red Light Therapy

While there are studies investigating the potential benefits of RLT, it's important to note that experiences can vary. These studies offer insights into how RLT might be beneficial in a wellness context.

Back Pain:

• The Journal, Pain Research and Management in Canada, published a study on infrared light therapy for chronic lower back pain that followed 40 patients over a period of 6 years. They all reported a significant reduction in pain and no adverse effects. (1)
• A study published in the Turkish Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation studied the impact of Infrared light therapy on spondylitis, a type of inflammatory arthritis of the spine. The patients significantly improved activity, function and quality of life. (2)

Wound Pain:

• The Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology published an article that looked at the ability of infrared light to stimulate nerves and support wound healing. The study concluded: “Nerve cells respond particularly well to infrared radiation”. (3)

Rheumatoid Arthritis pain:

• A group of researchers in Taiwan, found that red light therapy reduced joint pain by 70% in rheumatoid arthritis sufferers compared to the placebo group. In addition, they also saw reduction in morning stiffness and increased flexibility. (4)

Osteoarthritis pain:

• One study conducted with a group of 50 elderly patients that followed a 10 day treatment, found that red and near infrared light therapy reduced osteoarthritis knee pain by 50%. (5)

Injury pain:

• In 2016 a study by the Journal Laser Therapy showed a significant acceleration of return-to-play after six sessions of near infrared light on the injury. Moreover, researchers found that near infrared light increased blood flow, relaxed muscle spasms, reduced inflammation and intensity of pain.

Conclusion

RLT presents a unique approach to wellness, offering a natural and touch-free experience. Many users appreciate its non-invasive nature and find it a pleasant addition to their self-care routines.

It's a journey of personal discovery, with many finding it a supportive element in their quest for a more active and comfortable lifestyle.