How red and infrared
light therapy helps with inflammation?

Written by Marcus G.

Published on April 24, 2023

Red and infrared light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation, is a non-invasive form of treatment that uses light of a specific wavelength range to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation. Inflammation is a natural response of the body’s immune system to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can lead to a range of health problems, including arthritis, chronic pain and autoimmune disorders. Here we’ll explore how red and infrared light therapy works to target inflammation and promote healing.

1. Red and Infrared Light: The Basics

Red and infrared light therapy involves the use of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or laser devices that emit red and/or infrared light. The red light ranges from 630 to 700 nanometres and is absorbed by the skin up to a depth of approximately 5 millimetres, while the infrared light ranges from 780 to 1100 nanometres and penetrates deeper into the skin. The light energy is believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and trigger an anti-inflammatory response.

2. How Red and Infrared Light Therapy Works?

Red and infrared light therapy affects the body in several ways:

Stimulates Cellular Energy Production

Red and infrared light energy is absorbed by the mitochondria – the energy powerhouses of the cells. This stimulates the production of ATP – the molecule that transports energy within cells. Increased ATP production promotes cellular metabolism and accelerates tissue repair and healing.

Reduces Inflammation

Red and infrared light also has an anti-inflammatory effect. It is believed to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, such as interleukin-1, interleukin-6, and tumour necrosis factor-alpha and increase the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines. This helps reduce inflammation, swelling and associated pain.

Modulates Pain Perception

Pain is often associated with inflammation and injury. Red and infrared light therapy has been shown to modulate pain perception, reducing the sensation of pain. The light activates certain receptors in the body responsible for reducing the perception of pain. This can help to reduce reliance on analgesics and promote faster healing.

Improves Blood Circulation

Red and infrared light therapy has been shown to improve blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. Increased blood flow to the affected area helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the injured tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.

Applications of Red and Infrared Light Therapy

Red and infrared light therapy can be used to treat a range of conditions. Some of the most common applications include:

Arthritis

Research has shown that red and infrared light therapy can reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. It can also improve range of motion and mobility.

Wound Healing

Red and infrared light therapy promotes healing of wounds, including diabetic ulcers and pressure sores. It accelerates tissue repair and promotes the formation of granulation tissue, which helps heal the wound.

Muscle Pain and Strains

Red and infrared light therapy can also be used to treat muscle pain and strains. It promotes healing of damaged muscle fibres and reduces the associated pain and inflammation.

4. Conclusion

Red and infrared light therapy is a safe and non-invasive treatment option for reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing. Its applications span from treating arthritis and wound healing to pain modulation and muscle strains. The therapy’s effectiveness in reducing pro-inflammatory molecules, increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines and modulating pain perception is promising. As research continues to uncover more properties of this technique, it has the potential to become an essential tool in the management of inflammation and pain.