2024-04-22
Just some of the scientifically proven results of red light therapy investigated thus far
include:
Reduced inflammation
Near-infrared light reduces overall inflammation in the body by decreasing the presence of inflammatory markers. This reduction can help ease the symptoms associated with joint pain, sore muscles, autoimmune diseases, arthritis, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries.
Reduced pain
In one clinical study, neuropathic pain caused by a spinal cord injury was dramatically reduced by the application of red light treatment. Scientists conducting the study referred to it as “an exciting prospect with significant clinical relevance.” Near-infrared light wavelengths reduce overall pain by easing joint stiffness and soreness, diminishing inflammation, easing muscle spasms and enhancing blood flow.
Reduced recovery times after training and injury
For high-performance athletes (and those who train like them) red light therapy can help accelerate muscle repair following fatigue and injury. Mitochondria within cells are particularly responsive to red light therapy, and muscle cells are exceptionally rich in mitochondria. Red light therapy may additionally stimulate stem cells, further assisting in muscle recovery.
The stimulation of hair growth
Alopecia, or hair loss, is a common disorder affecting 50% of males over the age of 40 and 75% of females over 65. There are few approved, effective treatments available.However, studies performed on men and women have shown that red light therapy can stimulate hair growth.Red light wavelengths are believed to stimulate epidermal stem cells in the hair follicle, shifting the follicle into the anagen phase (this is the active growth stage). Research performed on mice with chemotherapy-induced alopecia showed similar responsiveness--the treatment encouraged hair growth.
