A medical-grade device differs from a consumer-grade device in the following ways:
Clinically proven beneficial wavelengths. These should fall within the “therapeutic window” of effective red (630-660 nm) and NIR (810-850 nm) wavelengths. The best devices use a synergistic combination of red/NIR light simultaneously.
High light power output, known as irradiance. A larger device will have more power to deliver. Look for the highest light energy output when comparing devices. This is measured in milliwatts per square centimeter, or mW/cm2 at 6″ from the device. The higher the number, the more potent the treatment.
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Near-Infrared vs. Infrared Therapy: What’s the Difference?
All light (and all heat) is a form of electromagnetic radiation. Some of this radiation is perceived by the human eye as red light; some is perceived as heat. These wavelengths absorb through the skin, where they stimulate cellular energy and health by increasing mitochondrial production of adenosine triphosphate (AT P), which is the primary fuel of the body’s cells.
This benefits the cell directly, and on a bigger scale, the system to which the cell belongs. NIR wavelengths also increase blood flow, stimulate collagen synthesis, and reduce inflammation to promote accelerated wound healing and muscle recovery.
Red light therapy devices typically emit red and NIR wavelengths between 620nm and 850nm. The treatment within this range is considered light therapy, not heat therapy, even though there is a very mild heating effect with NIR waves.
Why to Use Red Light Therapy
The benefits of red light therapy are numerous. Here are some ways that this natural, safe, non-invasive, and pleasurable treatment can help your clients achieve the results they want.
- AC joint pain
- General pain relief
- Rehabilitation after surgery
- Management of acute and chronic pain
- Arthritis & Osteoarthritic pain relief
- Sports injury recovery
- Bone pain
- Knee pain
- Facet and spine pain
- Metabolic dysregulation
- Scar tissue reduction
- Spinal disc herniation
How Effective Is Near-Infrared Light Therapy?
For pain relief and restoration of mobility, it’s important to use NIR wavelengths. Red wavelengths can absorb about 1 Omm into the skin, whereas the depth of NIR wavelengths is about 20mm; thus, NIR light penetrates not only the skin but also underlying tissue, and even dense connective tissue and bone.
And NIR light carries no danger of the thermal damage that could come from extended exposure to longer mid-infrared wavelengths.
Red Light Therapy Is a Safe, FDA — Approved Therapy
Many people ask if red light therapy, and specifically NIR light, is safe and if there are any side effects or contraindications.
When used as directed, red/NlR light therapy is safe. Some people may experience temporary tightness and redness of the skin. Red light therapy has no known side effects. The scientific community considers it a safe modality for treating a wide variety of physical conditions. Tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, hip pain, neck pain, and shoulder pain are a few other uses for NIR light.
Meanwhile, there may be other sympathetic benefits, including anti-aging and skin care treatment.