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Near-infrared (NIR) light and infrared saunas both fall within the broader spectrum of infrared light, but they differ in terms of application, wavelengths used, and how they affect the body:

Wavelengths:

• Near-infrared light: This refers to wavelengths between approximately 700 nanometers (nm) to 1400 nm. Near-infrared light is closer to the visible light spectrum and is known for its ability to penetrate the skin deeply, reaching the soft tissues, muscles, and even bones. It's often used in therapeutic devices, such as handheld or panel lights, for treatment of various conditions. These wavelengths primarily stimulate cellular energy production within the mitochondria leading to a multitude of benefits in the body

• Infrared saunas: Infrared saunas typically utilize a broader range of infrared wavelengths, including far-infrared (FIR) and mid-infrared (MIR). These saunas emit heat that includes wavelengths from around 5,600 nm to 10,000 nm (FIR) and 1,400 nm to 5,600 nm (MIR). Infrared saunas create an environment where the body absorbs the radiant heat, leading to sweating and potential health benefits associated with increased body temperature and perspiration such as detoxification.

Application:

• Near-infrared light therapy: Devices emitting near-infrared light are often used for targeted therapy, such as for skin rejuvenation, wound healing, pain relief, and tissue repair. These devices are smaller and designed for localized treatment areas. Larger devices can also treat the whole body for global, systemic benefits. 

• Infrared saunas: Infrared saunas consist of a larger enclosed space where individuals can sit or lie down. These saunas generate infrared heat that warms the body directly rather than heating the surrounding air, promoting sweating and potential detoxification benefits.

Benefits:

• Near-infrared light therapy: Benefits of near-infrared light therapy include improved skin health, collagen production, enhanced wound healing, reduced inflammation, and potential relief from muscle or joint pain. 

• Infrared saunas: Infrared saunas are believed to offer various health benefits, including relaxation, stress reduction, increased circulation, detoxification through sweating, potential weight loss (due to increased calorie expenditure), and temporary relief from muscle stiffness or soreness.

In summary, near-infrared light therapy devices target the body at a cellular level with their direct effect on the mitochondria, while infrared saunas provide a whole-body approach by using a wider range of infrared wavelengths to heat the body, promoting sweating and potential systemic benefits. Both have distinct applications and potential health advantages, but their usage and effects differ based on the method of delivery and wavelengths utilised.

Red light therapy (RLT) has shown potential in improving sleep quality, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with sleep disorders or disturbances. The mechanisms by which RLT may aid in sleep are multifaceted:

1. Regulation of Circadian Rhythms: Exposure to red light, especially in the evening, is believed to influence the body's circadian rhythms – the internal clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Unlike blue light, which can be disruptive at night, red light lacks the same impact on melatonin production, the hormone responsible for sleep. Thus, RLT may help maintain healthy circadian rhythms, promoting better sleep.

2. Production of Melatonin: RLT may aid in the natural production of melatonin in the body. Although red light doesn't directly stimulate melatonin production like darkness does, it's less disruptive compared to other light wavelengths, especially blue light. This can be conducive to a relaxing, sleep-friendly environment.

3. Reduction of Stress and Anxiety: Stress and anxiety are common causes of sleep disturbances. The therapeutic effects of RLT, such as reduced inflammation and pain relief, can create a sense of relaxation and well-being, which may help lower stress and anxiety levels, thus promoting better sleep.

4. Alleviation of Pain and Discomfort: For individuals suffering from chronic pain or discomfort, RLT's pain-relieving properties can lead to improved sleep. By reducing pain and inflammation, it can be easier to find a comfortable sleeping position and to stay asleep throughout the night.

5. Improved Overall Health: Since RLT can enhance overall physical health by boosting circulation, aiding in tissue repair, and improving skin health, these benefits can indirectly contribute to better sleep. A healthier body often correlates with improved sleep quality.

6. Safe and Non-Invasive: As a non-invasive, drug-free treatment, RLT offers a safe alternative or complement to other sleep aids, without the side effects that some medications can cause.

It's important to note that while RLT shows promise in improving sleep, it is not a cure for sleep disorders and should ideally be used as part of a broader approach to sleep health, including good sleep hygiene practices and consulting with healthcare professionals for chronic sleep issues. The effectiveness of RLT for sleep can vary from person to person, and further research is ongoing to fully understand its impact on sleep.>

Red light therapy (RLT) has been explored as a potential aid in weight loss and body contouring, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional fat reduction methods. Here's how RLT might assist in weight loss:

1. Fat Cell Reduction: RLT is believed to affect the adipocytes, or fat cells, causing the lipids inside to disperse. This process, known as lipolysis, releases the fat from the cells, which is then metabolized by the body. This can lead to a reduction in the volume of fat cells and potentially result in loss of inches in the treated areas.

2. Enhanced Metabolic Rate: Some studies suggest that RLT can increase the body's metabolic rate, which may contribute to more efficient fat and calorie burning. A higher metabolic rate can aid in weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

3. Appetite Control: Preliminary research indicates that RLT might have an effect on leptin and ghrelin, the hormones responsible for hunger and satiety. By potentially influencing these hormones, RLT could help regulate appetite and reduce the likelihood of overeating.

4. Improved Exercise Performance and Recovery: By enhancing muscle performance and recovery, RLT can make exercise more effective and less strenuous. This can encourage more consistent and intensive workouts, contributing to weight loss efforts.

5. Reducing Cellulite Appearance: While not directly influencing weight loss, RLT can improve the skin's appearance by reducing the visibility of cellulite, thus contributing to a more toned and contoured body appearance.

6. Improving Circulation: Improved blood flow from RLT might aid in the elimination of waste products from the body, which is beneficial for overall health and can support weight loss processes.

7. Non-Invasive and Safe: As a non-pharmaceutical, non-invasive therapy, RLT offers a weight loss aid without the risks associated with surgical procedures or medication side effects.

It's important to emphasize that RLT should not be viewed as a standalone solution for weight loss. The most effective approach to losing weight remains a combination of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle. RLT can be a supplementary tool in a comprehensive weight management program.

Red light therapy (RLT) has gained popularity for its various benefits in improving skin health. Here's how RLT contributes to healthier skin:

1. Stimulating Collagen Production: Collagen is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. RLT has been shown to stimulate collagen production, which can help in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leading to smoother and more youthful-looking skin.

2. Enhancing Skin Repair and Regeneration: RLT promotes cellular growth and repair. This can speed up the healing process of the skin, making it beneficial for treating wounds, scars, and certain skin conditions.

3. Reducing Inflammation and Redness: RLT is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can reduce inflammation and redness in the skin, which is particularly beneficial for conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema.

4. Improving Skin Texture and Tone: Regular use of RLT can improve overall skin texture and tone. It can help in evening out the skin complexion and reducing the visibility of age spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation.

5. Treating Acne: By reducing inflammation and targeting the oil glands to reduce substances that can lead to acne, RLT can help in managing acne-prone skin. It may also reduce acne scars by enhancing skin healing.

6. Minimizing Pore Size: RLT can help in reducing the appearance of large pores by increasing collagen production and improving skin elasticity.

7. Safe and Non-Invasive: RLT is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that doesn't involve UV rays, making it safe for regular use without the risk of damaging the skin.

8. Enhancing Blood Circulation: Improved blood circulation from RLT means more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the skin, which is crucial for maintaining healthy skin.

Red light therapy (RLT) has gained attention in the sports and fitness world for its potential in enhancing athletic performance and aiding in post-exercise recovery. Here's how RLT can be beneficial for athletes and sports enthusiasts:

1. Enhanced Muscle Recovery: One of the key benefits of RLT for athletes is its ability to speed up muscle recovery. By reducing inflammation and increasing blood flow, RLT can help muscles recover more quickly from the strain and micro-tears caused by intense physical activity. This faster recovery means athletes can return to training sooner and with reduced risk of injury.

2. Reduced Exercise-Induced Muscle Fatigue: RLT has been shown to reduce muscle fatigue during and after exercise. This means athletes can potentially perform for longer periods or engage in more intense training sessions.

3. Increased Strength and Endurance: Some studies suggest that RLT can improve muscle strength and endurance. This can translate to better performance in activities that require prolonged or intense muscle exertion.

4. Improved Joint Health: For sports that put a strain on joints, RLT can be beneficial by reducing pain and inflammation in joints, thereby enhancing mobility and reducing the risk of joint-related injuries.

5. Faster Healing of Injuries: RLT can accelerate the healing process of sports-related injuries, such as strains, sprains, and tears, by stimulating cellular repair and reducing inflammation.

6. Enhanced Energy Production: By stimulating the mitochondria within cells to produce more adenosine triphosphate (ATP), RLT can boost overall energy levels, which is crucial for high-performance sports activities.

7. Better Sleep and Recovery: RLT may contribute to improved sleep quality, which is essential for the recovery and performance of athletes. Good sleep enhances muscle recovery, mood, and cognitive functions, all important for athletic performance.

8. Safe and Non-Invasive: As a non-pharmaceutical, non-invasive therapy, RLT is a safe option for athletes looking for performance and recovery aids without the side effects often associated with medications or more invasive treatments.

Red light therapy (RLT) is increasingly recognized for its potential in accelerating the recovery from injuries, owing to its ability to enhance cellular function and promote tissue repair. Here's how RLT can facilitate faster healing:

1. Stimulating Cellular Energy Production: RLT works by emitting specific wavelengths of light that are absorbed by the mitochondria in cells, boosting the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Increased ATP production enhances the energy available for cells to repair and regenerate, crucial for healing injured tissues.

2. Reducing Inflammation and Pain: Inflammation is a natural response to injury, but excessive inflammation can slow the healing process and cause pain. RLT has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, creating a more conducive environment for healing and reducing recovery time.

3. Enhancing Circulation: Improved blood flow is another benefit of RLT. Enhanced circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the injured area, which are essential for repair, and helps in removing waste products from the cells, further aiding in the healing process.

4. Promoting Collagen Production: Collagen is a key protein in the body's connective tissues, and its production is vital for the healing of injuries, particularly those involving the skin, muscles, and tendons. RLT has been found to stimulate collagen synthesis, thereby supporting the repair and strengthening of damaged tissues.

5. Accelerating Tissue Repair: RLT can accelerate the regeneration of various tissues, including skin, muscle, and bone. This hastened tissue repair is beneficial in reducing the overall recovery time from injuries.

6. Reducing Oxidative Stress: Oxidative stress can impede healing. RLT helps in reducing oxidative stress in cells, thereby supporting a healthier and quicker recovery process.

7. Non-Invasive and Safe: As a non-invasive treatment with minimal side effects, RLT is a safe option for speeding up injury recovery, suitable for regular use without the risk of complications associated with more invasive treatments.

Red light therapy (RLT) has shown potential in supporting and boosting the immune system, although the exact mechanisms and the extent of its effectiveness are still subjects of ongoing research. The therapy's ability to enhance cellular function and promote overall well-being indirectly contributes to immune system health in several ways:

1. Cellular Health and Energy Production: RLT works at the cellular level by stimulating the mitochondria, the powerhouse of the cell, to produce more adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Increased ATP production means cells, including those in the immune system, can function more efficiently. This enhanced cellular function is crucial for the immune system's ability to respond to pathogens.

2. Reducing Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: Oxidative stress can impair immune function and lead to chronic inflammation, which in turn can weaken the body's defense mechanisms. By improving cellular health and reducing inflammation, RLT can indirectly support the immune system.

3. Stimulating White Blood Cell Production: Some studies suggest that RLT may encourage the production of white blood cells, which play a critical role in defending the body against infections and diseases.

4. Enhancing Tissue Repair and Healing: By promoting faster healing and tissue repair, RLT can help the body recover more quickly from wounds or infections, reducing the overall strain on the immune system.

5. Improving Circulation and Detoxification: Improved blood flow from RLT can aid in more efficient transport of nutrients and oxygen to the cells and removal of waste products, which is vital for maintaining a robust immune response.

6. Supporting Overall Well-being: By contributing to better sleep, reduced stress, and overall well-being, RLT can indirectly bolster the immune system, as these factors are closely linked to immune health.

Neuropathy is the term that refers to disorders resulting from damage to the peripheral nervous system, and it means the nerves don’t work properly. Causes of neuropathy are numerous including diabetes and metabolic syndrome, autoimmune diseases, infections, tumors, bone marrow disorders, alcohol use disorder, certain medicines, exposure to toxins, and nutritional deficiencies, just to name a few.

People with neuropathy experience symptoms such as sharp or burning pain, muscle weakness, and lack of coordination, all of which significantly affect their quality of life. There are several treatment options and approaches to help manage neuropathy and the symptoms it causes. One of these approaches is red light therapy.

People suffering from neuropathy usually find their symptoms are better in summer months or when in warmer climates. Red light therapy mimics the beneficial wavelengths of light in the sun, allowing the same benefits to be felt all year round. 

This article aims to explore the potential efficacy of red light therapy for neuropathy and how it works. Read on to learn more.

Does Red Light Therapy Help Manage Neuropathy?

Red light therapy is effective in the management of neuropathy. A study from Laser Therapy showed that low-level laser therapy was associated with a significant reduction in pain among people with peripheral neuropathy caused by type 2 diabetes.

Most studies and reviews about the efficacy of red light therapy for neuropathy focused on patients with diabetes. One of them is a systematic review of Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome, which confirmed that low-level laser therapy exhibits a positive effect on the management of diabetic neuropathic pain. 

Red light therapy is also effective for patients with peripheral somatosensory neuropathy. Evidence shows the therapy can improve the sensory function of these patients. That said, more research on this subject is necessary to elucidate the full potential and effectiveness of red light therapy for the management of neuropathy.

One study evaluated the effectiveness of red light therapy in the treatment of various health problems, including neuropathy. Results showed red light therapy could be effective for neuropathic pain through analgesic effects.

How Does Red Light Therapy Help Manage Neuropathy?

The available evidence confirms that red light therapy can, indeed, help people with neuropathy. More studies on this subject are necessary, though. Red light therapy works through several mechanisms of action, such as:

• Improved blood circulation: red light therapy encourages the release of nitric oxide (NO) in the bloodstream. Nitric oxide is a molecule that acts as a vasodilator i.e. dilates or widens blood vessels. With the increased production of NO, blood flow improves. This is essential for nourishing damaged nerves and facilitating their repair. One clinical trial revealed that red light therapy improved peripheral protective sensation and foot perfusion in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes through increased nitric oxide production.
• Antioxidant effects: oxidative stress decreases blood flow and reduces neuronal function, thereby contributing to neuropathic pain. Evidence confirms oxidative stress can contribute to persistent neuropathic pain by impairing the balance of anti- and pro-inflammatory cells. Red light therapy can exhibit antioxidant effects and thereby help manage neuropathy and pain that people experience. One study found that antioxidation induced by light-emitting diodes may lead to nerve regeneration.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: different causes of neuropathic pain are connected to excessive inflammation in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. This leads to both initiation and maintenance of persistent pain that strongly affects a person’s quality of life. Inflammation is a common factor in neuropathic conditions, but red light therapy has anti-inflammatory properties. This therapy can alleviate inflammation in tissues and thereby help treat neuropathy or pain you experience.
• Improved nerve function: red light therapy can stimulate nerve regeneration and repair by supporting the production of factor growths. More precisely, this kind of therapy helps restore nerve function and aids management of neuropathy.
• Increased production of Schwann cells and fibroblasts: in order to restore nerve function, it is essential to fix the gap between damaged tissue and healthy nerve cells. Red light therapy stimulates Schwann cells (peripheral nervous system cells that insulate nerve cells) and fibroblasts (important for tissue’s structural integrity). This is important because fibroblasts interact with Schwann cells to promote healing mechanisms, alleviate inflammation, and support the restoration of neuron function.
• Cellular metabolism boost: mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with neuropathy and neuropathic pain. That means cellular metabolism is impaired. Red light therapy helps improve cellular metabolism to boost energy production and improve recovery.
• Pain relief: the combined result of several mechanisms of action through which red light therapy works is the analgesic effect. Through analgesic properties, red light therapy can help alleviate pain and improve your quality of life.

Duration of Red Light Therapy Session for Neuropathy

Red light therapy is a practical option for people with neuropathy to improve their quality of life. The greatest advantage of red light therapy is that it doesn’t go by the “one size fits all” rule. The duration of one session depends on factors such as the severity of your condition and the individual response to the treatment. The standard treatment plan may involve daily sessions over several weeks. In most cases, the sessions last 10 to 20 minutes. You will achieve the best results if you don’t skip sessions. Consistency is crucial for optimal results from red light therapy.

You should do red light therapy for a minimum of one month.

Why one-month minimum? Well, red light therapy is not a quick fix. It works through multiple mechanisms of action, as mentioned above. These mechanisms of action aim to fix the factors that contribute to neuropathy and worsen your pain. Red light therapy works on a cellular level. It takes time for nerve cells to repair themselves and regenerate. However, all cells don’t repair and regenerate at the same time. For that reason, be consistent. That way, you allow cells to recover at their own pace.

How to Get Started with Red Light Therapy for Neuropathy

Red light therapy offers many benefits ranging from neuropathy management to youthful and healthy skin. You’re probably eager to try it out but aren’t sure where to start.

At LumiRed you can schedule a phone consultation with our health professional who can advise on the best device to purchase for use at home, depending on your needs and goals. This allows you to perform your treatment in the comfort of your own home on a regular basis. Best of all, its simple, comfortable and has no side effects.

What to Expect During and After Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is a noninvasive approach meaning the whole process is painless. In fact it is comfortable with a mild comforting warmth being felt

Not only is a red light therapy session painless, but you may also feel calm and relaxed. Consider it a perfect opportunity to calm your mind and reduce stress too. A red light therapy session is also the perfect time to meditate. Doing so gives your body an additional wellness boost since meditation also relieves stress that worsens chronic conditions.

In addition to painless treatment and calming effects, you can expect your session to be safe. The treatment doesn’t cause side effects. There are no risks or complications that could arise during or after the treatment.

Red light therapy holds great potential in improving your quality of life, but it’s useful to have realistic expectations. As seen above, studies confirm that red light therapy can reduce neuropathic pain and help manage neuropathy in people with diabetes. However, it can’t eliminate it on its own. Red light therapy should be an adjunct therapy to this problem, not the only treatment approach. Successful management also depends on managing or treating the underlying cause of neuropathy.

Final Takeaway

Neuropathy is a painful condition that occurs due to a wide range of causes, including diabetes or carpal tunnel syndrome. People with neuropathies suffer from debilitating pain that restricts their flexibility, limits their movements, and severely impairs their quality of life. Red light therapy is an effective approach in the management of neuropathy, as confirmed by many studies. Several mechanisms of action are involved in the beneficial effect of red light therapy. The most important thing to keep in mind is that red light therapy sessions are painless, relaxing, and safe.

References

Colloca L, Ludman T, Bouhassira D, et al. Neuropathic pain. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2017;3:17002. Published 2017 Feb 16. doi:10.1038/nrdp.2017.2

Cg SK, Maiya AG, Hande HM, Vidyasagar S, Rao K, Rajagopal KV. Efficacy of low level laser therapy on painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Laser Ther. 2015;24(3):195-200. doi:10.5978/islsm.15-OR-12

M A, Ummer V S, Maiya AG, Hande M. Low level laser therapy for the patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy - A systematic review. Diabetes Metab Syndr. 2019;13(4):2667-2670. doi:10.1016/j.dsx.2019.07.035

Fallah A, Mirzaei A, Gutknecht N, Demneh AS. Clinical effectiveness of low-level laser treatment on peripheral somatosensory neuropathy. Lasers Med Sci. 2017;32(3):721-728. doi:10.1007/s10103-016-2137-y

Mansouri V, Arjmand B, Rezaei Tavirani M, Razzaghi M, Rostami-Nejad M, Hamdieh M. Evaluation of Efficacy of Low-Level Laser Therapy. J Lasers Med Sci. 2020;11(4):369-380. doi:10.34172/jlms.2020.60

Arnall DA, Nelson AG, López L, et al. The restorative effects of pulsed infrared light therapy on significant loss of peripheral protective sensation in patients with long-term type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Acta Diabetol. 2006;43(1):26-33. doi:10.1007/s00592-006-0207-5

Xu Y, Wu S, Wang J, et al. Oxidative stress induced by NOX2 contributes to neuropathic pain via plasma membrane translocation of PKCε in rat dorsal root ganglion neurons. J. Neuroinflamm. 2021;18, 106

Ishiguro M, Ikeda K, Tomita K. Effect of near-infrared light-emitting diodes on nerve regeneration. J Orthop Sci. 2010;15(2):233-239. doi:10.1007/s00776-009-1438-4

Ellis A, Bennett DL. Neuroinflammation and the generation of neuropathic pain. Br J Anaesth. 2013;111(1):26-37. doi:10.1093/bja/aet128

Yazdani SO, Golestaneh AF, Shafiee A, Hafizi M, Omrani HA, Soleimani M. Effects of low level laser therapy on proliferation and neurotrophic factor gene expression of human schwann cells in vitro. J Photochem Photobiol B. 2012;107:9-13. doi:10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2011.11.001

English K, Barton MC. HDAC6: A Key Link Between Mitochondria and Development of Peripheral Neuropathy. Front Mol Neurosci. 2021;14:684714. Published 2021 Aug 31. doi:10.3389/fnmol.2021.684714

If you are an active person who loves to work out, you already know the importance of muscle repair. Proper muscle recovery is essential for continuous improvements in athletic performance, results you want to achieve, and overall well-being. Nowadays, there are numerous approaches and products for muscle repair, and red light therapy is one of them. In this post, we’re going to explore red light therapy for muscle repair, whether it works, how it functions, and more.

Is red light therapy effective for muscle repair?

The effectiveness of red light therapy for muscle repair was confirmed by several studies. A good example is research from the American Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, which found that light-emitting diode therapy can reduce muscle damage, pain, and atrophy while supporting muscle recovery, mass, and athletic performance.

Additionally, a paper from the Journal of Athletic Training found that near-infrared light therapy effectively attenuated strength loss when applied to skeletal muscle prior to resistance exercise. The study confirmed light therapy is an effective and noninvasive approach to improving muscle function.

Speaking of the efficacy of red light therapy for muscle repair, it’s also useful to mention a randomized-controlled trial from Lasers in Medical Science, which found that light-emitting diode therapy can attenuate the muscle soreness and loss of muscle strength as well as impairments in range of motion. In this study, even a single session led to improvements in muscle recovery.

One study found that phototherapy administered before resistance exercise provided ergogenic and prophylactic benefits. In this study, light therapy delayed the onset of fatigue, lowered fatigue response, protected cells from exercise-induced damage, and improved post-exercise recovery.

More research is necessary to elucidate the true potential of red light therapy for muscle repair. Current evidence confirms it can help accelerate muscle recovery.

How does red light therapy work for muscle repair?

Red light therapy gained popularity as a non-invasive and drug-free approach to support recovery and repair of muscles. Studies confirm the effectiveness of red light therapy, but it’s important to emphasize that more research is necessary to explore and elucidate everything this therapy has to offer.

Red light therapy supports muscle repair through several mechanisms of action. Let’s take a look at them below.

Antioxidant properties

Antioxidants are molecules that fight and neutralize free radicals in the body to treat or prevent oxidative stress and the damage it would cause. Oxidative stress may result from many factors, including muscle-damaging exercise. Vigorous exercise can increase levels of free radicals through elevated activation of aerobic bioenergetic pathways and exercise-induced hyperthermia.

Short-term oxidative stress isn’t such a serious problem, but chronic oxidative stress is a major issue. Evidence shows chronic oxidative stress is linked to increased protein loss and muscle atrophy. The deleterious effects, such as muscle atrophy and reduction of force generation, result mainly from non-regular strenuous exercise.

Oxidative stress is bad news for your muscles, but this is where red light therapy steps in. Red light therapy can protect against free radicals and oxidative stress, evidence shows. A study from the journal PLoS Onefound that the administration of red and infrared laser therapy positively modulates antioxidant enzymes and lowers stress markers during the process of muscle repair.

The same paper reported that red light therapy exhibits protective effects on muscle tissue as it modulates mitochondrial activity. Red light therapy can modulate oxidative stress and thereby help muscles recover. It’s useful to mention that antioxidant levels determine the regenerative capacity of muscle stem cells. Red light therapy works to improve the regenerative capacity and reduce muscle damage.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Intense long exercise can contribute to higher levels of inflammatory mediators. This can lead to chronic inflammation and a higher risk of injury. Studies show exercise can increase pro-inflammatory cytokines, but it’s useful to keep in mind that the duration of exercise determines the magnitude or intensity of the inflammatory state.

Inflammation can lead to muscle depletion and contributes to muscle damage. For that reason, inflammatory response worsens muscle injury.

A proper muscle repair approach should exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in order to tackle this problem and avoid further damage and injury risk. That happens to be one of several mechanisms of action of red light therapy. The anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation (or red light therapy) are scientifically confirmed. For instance, a paper from AIMS Biophysics explained that red light therapy can reduce inflammatory markers such as interleukin 1β (key mediator of inflammatory response) and muscle atrophy.

Thanks to the anti-inflammatory effects, red light therapy can minimize soreness and swelling. As a result, it helps with muscle repair.

Improved blood circulation

Proper function and well-being of your muscles depend on blood flow just like the rest of your body. Healthy blood flow supplies the muscles with fresh blood and oxygen while delivering much-needed nutrients. At the same time, blood circulation carries away the muscles’ wastes back to your kidneys. This is important because optimal waste management supports muscle recovery and repair, reduces soreness after a workout, and improves overall tissue health.

Since blood circulation is vital for muscle health, impaired blood flow can worsen muscle damage and complicate repair or recovery. Low blood volume causes inefficient functioning of muscles. The muscles don’t get oxygen-rich blood and nutrients properly. When that happens, it becomes difficult for muscles to recover and repair. The risk of injuries is also higher in such a scenario.

One of the most significant benefits of red light therapy is that it improves blood flow to the muscles. Increased circulation speeds up the healing process. Studies show that increasing blood flow in tissue exposed to red light therapy would increase the delivery of oxygen and other substrates to exercising muscles. This increases the ability of that specific muscle to perform work.

Red light therapy stimulates the release of nitric oxide. This molecule is a vasodilator meaning it spreads your blood vessels. As a result, blood circulation improves so that your muscles can repair and function properly.

Increased production of collagen

Collagen is a protein that is responsible for healthy joints and skin. This protein is vital for strong and healthy muscles. Collagen forms a sheath around muscle fibers, thus giving them both support and protection. It’s important to mention that collagen is a crucial component of a system that connects muscular cells and groups them. Impaired collagen and low levels of this protein can thereby worsen muscle damage and make it difficult for your muscles to repair and recover properly.

Red light therapy supports muscle repair by stimulating the production of collagen. Increased production of collagen strengthens muscle fibers and makes them more resilient.

How to use red light therapy for muscle repair

Red light therapy for muscle repair works through several mechanisms of action. Using red light therapy to repair and recover your muscles is a simple and straightforward process.

A full body panel from the LumiRed or LumiPro series allows the full body to be treated, front and back in as little as 20 minutes, This is easy to administer after workouts or later in the day to boost the bodies recovery process and get you ready for your next workout.

You can use red light therapy for muscle repair in different situations. Good examples are:

• Alleviating post-workout soreness
• Promoting the healing process after injury
• Workout preparation for better athletic performance and lower injury risk
• Management of chronic pain
• Rest and relaxation

Red light therapy has a wide range of benefits, but the most significant advantage is its safety. The whole process is painless and doesn’t cause side effects or complications. Most clients find red light therapy sessions relaxing and consider them the perfect me-time opportunity.

Conclusion

The importance of proper muscle repair is often overlooked. Muscle repair is vital for the proper functioning of these tissues, their strength, athletic performance, and range of motion. Inadequate repair of muscles doesn’t allow you to get the most from your exercise or any other activity. One of the most effective approaches to achieving muscle repair or recovery is red light therapy. A growing body of evidence confirms the effectiveness of red light therapy on muscle repair. Red light therapy works through several mechanisms of action to deliver its effects. The whole process is safe, relaxing, and adapted to the specific needs of each person.

References

Ferraresi C, Bertucci D, Schiavinato J, et al. Effects of Light-Emitting Diode Therapy on Muscle Hypertrophy, Gene Expression, Performance, Damage, and Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness: Case-control Study with a Pair of Identical Twins. Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2016;95(10):746-757. doi:10.1097/PHM.0000000000000490

Larkin-Kaiser KA, Christou E, Tillman M, George S, Borsa PA. Near-infrared light therapy to attenuate strength loss after strenuous resistance exercise. J Athl Train. 2015;50(1):45-50. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-49.3.82

Borges LS, Cerqueira MS, dos Santos Rocha JA, et al. Light-emitting diode phototherapy improves muscle recovery after a damaging exercise. Lasers Med Sci. 2014;29(3):1139-1144. doi:10.1007/s10103-013-1486-z

Borsa PA, Larkin KA, True JM. Does phototherapy enhance skeletal muscle contractile function and postexercise recovery? A systematic review. J Athl Train. 2013;48(1):57-67. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-48.1.12

Chen TC, Huang YC, Chou TY, Hsu ST, Chen MY, Nosaka K. Effects of far-infrared radiation lamp therapy on recovery from muscle damage induced by eccentric exercise. Eur J Sport Sci. 2023;23(8):1638-1646. doi:10.1080/17461391.2023.2185163

Jamurtas AZ. Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage and Oxidative Stress. Antioxidants (Basel). 2018;7(4):50. Published 2018 Mar 28. doi:10.3390/antiox7040050

Steinbacher P, Eckl P. Impact of oxidative stress on exercising skeletal muscle. Biomolecules. 2015;5(2):356-377. Published 2015 Apr 10. doi:10.3390/biom5020356

Walski T, Drohomirecka A, Bujok J, et al. Low-Level Light Therapy Protects Red Blood Cells Against Oxidative Stress and Hemolysis During Extracorporeal Circulation. Front Physiol. 2018;9:647. Published 2018 May 31. doi:10.3389/fphys.2018.00647

Ribeiro BG, Alves AN, Dos Santos LA, et al. Red and Infrared Low-Level Laser Therapy Prior to Injury with or without Administration after Injury Modulate Oxidative Stress during the Muscle Repair Process. PLoS One. 2016;11(4):e0153618. Published 2016 Apr 15. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0153618

Cerqueira É, Marinho DA, Neiva HP, Lourenço O. Inflammatory Effects of High and Moderate Intensity Exercise-A Systematic Review. Front Physiol. 2020;10:1550. Published 2020 Jan 9. doi:10.3389/fphys.2019.01550

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