Light fantastic

LIGHT FANTASTIC: THE BENEFITS OF RED AND NEARINFRARED LIGHT

Ruth Milner shares her insight into the healing power of red and nearinfrared light for people and animals…

LIGHT affects us in many ways, from physical health to psychological mood and mental wellbeing. It’s not just light in the visible spectrum that impacts on our health. We know that ultraviolet light, in the form of UVA and UBV can damage our skin and even lead to skin cancer. Conversely, red and near-infrared light can have enormous therapeutic benefit.

What is Red and Near Infrared Light therapy?

Red light therapy uses the latest LED sourced technology with red and near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths being widely used and studied. Since 2015, this has been known as Photobiomodulation. It triggers a cascade of biostimulatory photochemical effects in cells, thereby stimulating biological responses which are not actually derived from heat but can be considered as being similar to photosynthesis in plants. Unlike laser light, LED sourced NIR is totally safe for the eyes, so there is no need for protective goggles.

Regular application of photobiomodulation has been shown to be effective in aiding the natural healing processes of the body, reducing swelling and inflammation, stimulating the immune system and relieving pain caused by underlying health conditions or injuries.

How does it promote healing?

Photobiomodulation helps promote healing at a cellular level via multiple biological effects stimulated by photon energy. As the combined red and near infra-red light penetrates into the body, its photochemical effects absorbed by receptors increase cellular energy where there are damaged or compromised cells, whether it’s soft tissue or musculoskeletal injury. Every cell is a building block of the body and if each cell can function at its best, the body will heal itself. Previous studies have shown that photobiomodulation treatment increases blood flow and oxygen to the damaged cells, reducing inflammation. It also encourages lymph flow to the targeted area removing debris and radicals. Apart from offering pain relief, it also releases endorphins and increases serotonin calming the body. The Photizo CE Medically approved Home Care range offers specific models designed for pain relief, acute sports injuries, skin care, antiaging and animal health.

Scientific evidence

There’s a considerable body of scientific evidence concerning the positive health benefits of photobiomodulation treatment. Harvard professor Michael Hamblin PhD, co-author of Low Level Light Therapy: Photobiomodulation, states that PBM reduces signs of sun damage in ageing, reduces wrinkles, boosts collagen by 30%, and speeds up wound healing and even promotes hair re-growth. He also commented that PBM revealed, “Consistent and highly significant results in favour of active PBM for osteoarthritis”. Other continuing PBM studies similarly show promising results for patients with cognitive degeneration, infertility and mental health.

How could a holistic therapist incorporate the use of red light therapy into their practice?

There are many holistic modalities that could incorporate photobiomodulation to enhance treatment outcomes. In massage and bodywork, photobiomodulation devices enhance any massage technique allowing deep tissue mobilisation, improving blood and lymphatic flow as well as fascia release. They also aid the healing process when combined and applied between professional treatments such as Physiotherapy, Osteopathy and Chiropractic. For beauty and skincare therapists, PBM offers a non-invasive approach to collagen stimulation, rejuvenating skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and well as offering benefits for atopic conditions like eczema. n

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RUTH MILNER is a member of the International Light Association network. She is the author of a successful CPD for animal health professionals and provides consultancy on the physiological effects, psychological and emotional effects of colours. She is the Managing Director of Danetre Health Products. www.danetrehealthproducts.com