Red light therapy is increasing in popularity as a natural treatment for pain relief and a post-exercise muscle recovery method. It’s a growing trend and popular discussion topic among athletes, physical therapists, and wellness professionals. But does it work, and are the results worth the investment? In this guide, we’ve got the answers to those questions and more; keep reading to explore everything you need to know about the benefits of red light therapy.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy applies low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to the skin, penetrating the surface to reach the muscle tissues. This stimulates the mitochondria and enhances the production of adenosine triphosphate, which can fuel cell repair and promote regeneration. Improving cellular function has several benefits, such as accelerating tissue recovery and aiding blood circulation, making it effective for managing pain relief and muscle fatigue.
Red light therapy comes in a variety of different forms. Treatment can be done in a professional capacity, such as a physical therapy clinic or sports recovery facility, with sessions lasting between five and twenty minutes. Red light therapy can also be done at home with handheld or panel-based devices for targeted therapy (e.g., knees, back, or joints). No matter which form of treatment you decide on, a consistent approach is the key to seeing benefits.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy (Muscle Recovery)
Red light therapy has many advantages when it comes to enhancing muscle recovery after intense exercise. For example, it can boost collagen production and cell regeneration, helping muscles recover quicker from microtears and minor injuries. Improved oxygen delivery and increased blood flow also reduce the typical muscle soreness felt after workouts; it speeds up recovery by allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach muscles more efficiently.
In addition, red light therapy reduces inflammation, which can decrease swelling and stiffness and improve mobility. Some studies also show that red light therapy could have benefits that extend beyond muscle recovery into athletic endurance and strength, such as by optimizing energy production at the cell level. One study looked at the effect of red light on the sleep quality of female basketball players and concluded that it is effective at preventing sleep disorders after athletic training, which improves performance and muscle endurance.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy (Pain Relief)
Red light therapy has a number of benefits in addition to improving athletic performance and muscle recovery, such as reducing chronic pain. It has been studied for its potential to reduce pain related to a variety of common health conditions, such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. Some research suggests that red light therapy can improve nerve regeneration and alleviate chronic joint pain by promoting blood circulation and reducing inflammation.
Another benefit of red light therapy for pain relief is that it’s a non-surgical and less aggressive way to treat chronic pain. Since it’s a natural treatment rather than a prescription painkiller or medication, there are no serious side effects or risks of dependency. For many people who are living with chronic pain, it can be a safe alternative for improving flexibility and reducing discomfort.
JESSICA DEABREU