Light therapy or photobiomodulation has been an area of interest since NASA began studying the effects of light on their astronauts to accelerate healing in the 1990s. Research shows that light therapy can have benefits, depending on the application. Many colors, spectrums, and wavelengths influence the benefits of these friendly photons.
PBM therapy should not be confused with the rays from the sun, as the sun emits ultraviolet, rather than inferred, light which can damage cells with prolonged exposure. Infrared light is a spectrum of red light that human eyes cannot see. It penetrates the tissues deeper, which makes it most beneficial for musculoskeletal or circulatory-related issues.
1. Accelerated Healing
Nitric Oxide is a gas substance made inside the body when nitrogen and oxygen come together. It's commonly made by exercise, eating NO rich foods, and sunlight. This gas is responsible for building stronger, faster communication between almost every cell in your body, including hormones and muscle building.
We also have another substance called ATP, short for adenosine triphosphate. ATP is made in a special part of our cells called the mitochondria. It is the powerhouse of our cellular energy, and if we had no ATP, our cells would die very quickly… all of them.
PBM therapy stimulates the production of both of these substances, thereby increasing the efficiency & speed of vital communication and faster cellular regeneration. These effects combined support accelerated healing and recovery for divers conditions.
Light strength, depth, and color can be adjusted to target certain issues from superficial, like aging & acne, to deeper issues, such as muscle tears, breaks, & wound healing.
2. Musculoskeletal Benefits
Light therapy can help reduce inflammation, modulate the immune system in the joints, and help speed up muscle tissue repair. PBM can also decrease pain transmission by blocking nociceptors (pain nerves) by 30% with application for up to 20 minutes. Therefore, people suffering from lower back pain, sciatica, neck & shoulder pain, fibromyalgia, and injuries associated with repetitive strain, and chronic repetitive stress can benefit from PMB therapy.
3. Mental Health Benefits
Studies of PBM therapy also show that red light therapy, specifically the use of blue, green, and red light may have some beneficial effects on conditions such as sleep disorder, depression, anxiety, chronic repetitive stress, and even migraine headaches.Â
4. Skin Care Benefits
In addition to increased blood circulation, accelerated cell repair, and wound healing, light therapy profoundly impacts skin, its quality, and aging. PBM therapy can decrease the appearance of fine lines and scars, increase collagen, and improve elasticity.
Such as most complementary alternative medicine, consistent and frequent application should be applied during the first several weeks of therapy. Most light therapy sessions are usually no longer than 20 minutes, as that is the time it takes for maximum depth and saturation of light.
If you feel that light therapy may be good for you, call us for a consultation to discuss the benefits and develop a plan that best suits you!
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