What Types of Joint Pain Can Light Therapy Treat?
Light therapy, also called photobiomodulation, uses light energy to trigger natural healing processes in the body. Specific wavelengths of light interact with cells to reduce inflammation, speed tissue repair, decrease pain signals, and improve circulation.
Because light therapy addresses so many facets of joint damage, it has been proven effective at treating all the most common forms of joint pain including:
Osteoarthritis
Sprains and strains
Rheumatoid arthritis
Tendinitis
Bursitis
Post-surgical joint pain
Low back pain
Neck pain
Fractures
It's safe and effective for all age groups too. Many research studies have even focused specifically on using light therapy for arthritis pain in older adults with great success. Next, let's review some of the evidence confirming light therapy really does work for joint pain.
Best Wavelengths for Light Therapy to Reduce Joint Pain
The specific wavelengths of light are a key factor in how well light therapy works.
Studies confirm that certain colors of light have superior anti-inflammatory and tissue repairing powers. Here are the best wavelengths for joint therapy:
660 nm: This intense red light penetrates tissue deeply to relieve chronic joint and arthritic pain. It also reduces inflammation and swelling.
850 nm: Near-infrared light in the 800-900nm range has been shown to heal cartilage and bone. It also decreases inflammation and discomfort.
So when checking for a light therapy device, look for these wavelengths. The combination of red, near-infrared and infrared light provides full, penetrating joint therapy. The best results are typically seen with a combination of red and near infrared light.
Is Red Light Therapy Safe?
Red light therapy using red and near infrared wavelengths within appropriate dosage ranges is very safe with minimal side effects. Unlike medications or surgery, light therapy does not damage joint tissues. The only side effect reported in some studies is a slight heating sensation over the area being treated. No long-term negative effects have been reported.
Phototoxicity is only a concern with ultraviolet wavelengths, which are NOT used in red/near infrared light therapy products. The visible red and invisible infrared wavelengths used for joint pain are longer and safer. It's also nearly impossible to overdose on red/near infrared light therapy since your body will absorb the amount it needs and reflect any excess. Healthy cells are not damaged by the light energy.
Talk to your doctor before beginning light therapy if you take any photosensitive medications or have any conditions that may be light-sensitive. Overall, light therapy presents an extremely low risk option compared to many joint pain medications and surgeries.