Red light therapy is a technique used in dermatological science that utilizes low-level near-infrared light wave frequencies to address all manner of issues from skin conditions such as wrinkles or scars, to fat loss, muscle recovery and cell regeneration.
History of Red Light Therapy
Early uses of Red Light Therapy can be traced back as far as the 1930’s as a means to stimulate the growth of plant life. This then led to research into the effect of red light treatments on human cells where scientists began to understand the potential to reduce pain, inflammation, edema, and to regenerate damaged tissues such as wounds, bones and tendons through this form of therapy.
How does the Red Light Therapy work?
Every cell in the body has mitochondria, which is often referred to as the cells powerhouse and is responsible for the breakdown of glucose (simple carbohydrates) to energy (chemically known as Adenosine Triphosphate or ATP) that can be used to generate energy.
As the skin is exposed to a light source emitting red light waves, the mitochondria is activated to break more glucose molecules than it would usually do, thereby producing more ATP than the cell is used to. More ATP attracts more oxygen to the site and the additional oxygen helps in the regeneration of the cells, stimulating healthier cells and leading to skin tissue healing, slower aging, elimination of scars, and more.
How effective is the Red Light Therapy in treating skin conditions?
Since this therapeutic method is new to the medical field, the effectiveness of red light therapy is not well documented in all medical conditions. It is, however, used to treat scars, stretch marks, skin burns, wrinkles, acne, cellulite, and hair loss, and other similar aesthetic conditions with minimal risk and prominent effects.
What are the other said uses of Red Light Therapy?
The Red Light Therapy is also used as an adjunct to treat certain psychiatric conditions like Dementia, Depression, or Post-Partum Depression. This form of treatment is known to enhance a natural circadian rhythm, improve mood, energy levels and general wellbeing.
The Red Light Therapy is also known for its use in treating dental aches and mild infections. It is also used as an activation light therapy in the treatment of cancers.
What about the performance benefits of Red Light Therapy?
The main performance benefit is in its ability to promote tissue healing and decrease pain. By using your natural biology to help you recover red light therapy is able to enhance collagen stimulation, increased blood flow, and growth in cellular energy.
As already discussed Red Light therapy increases blood flow and stimulates cell regeneration by amplifying ATP production in your cells. From an athlete’s perspective this will enable your body to prevent muscle fatigue and speed up recovery, so the pain does not interfere with training and repeat high level performances. Light therapy can also boost muscle growth and improves sleep allowing you to perform at your best.
At The Pro Sport Lab we believe that this light-based therapy can help a number of our athletes through muscle repair, fatigue management and growth in cellular energy. Our performance studio can deliver a clinical based dosage to the whole body in as little as 10 minutes. It’s comfortable, soothing and immediate benefits are often felt.
How often can you use it?
The recommended dose of Red Light Therapy, in general, is about 8 to 12 weeks. The maintenance dose is once a week, for however long the treatment can be continued.
The actual dose will differ from one athlete to another. A consultation with your coach and possible referral to your medical practitioner may also be suggested before beginning a programme of light therapy.
Want to find out more?
Contact The Team at The Pro Sport Lab.
