Red Light Therapy
I’m always looking out for technologies that might be useful for my patients, and I believe red light therapy is one of them.
In 1989, NASA was trying to figure out how to grow potatoes in space (why not), and was experimenting with red and blue LED lights in the space shuttle as it orbited far above the earth. As a serendipitous by-product of the research, NASA noticed that abrasions on the hands of the astronauts appeared to heal more quickly when they were exposed to the red light.
This potato-mediated discovery led to a surge in research into the therapeutic applications of red light, but the benefits I am most interested in as an osteopath are reduced inflammation and improved healing.
Research has shown that red light therapy can help;
Reduce pain and increase movement in both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Heal wounds, e.g. diabetic foot ulcers.
Repair damaged bone.
Heal muscle and tendon injuries.
Reduce inflammation e.g. mouth sores experienced during chemotherapy.
Although most early research into red light therapy was conducted using low-powered lasers, nowadays therapists are more likely to use Light Emitting Diode (LED) red light machines, as they have been found to be just as effective, and much safer.
Although other mechanisms involving water are thought to be involved, the main way that red light therapy works is by energising the tiny power stations found inside our cells - the mitochondria.
Red and near-infrared light is absorbed by certain parts of the mitochondria called chromophores, mainly one called cytochrome c oxidase (CcO), which helps produce energy. This light can also help release a molecule called nitric oxide (NO), improving blood flow and bringing more oxygen to specific areas. This process also affects how our cells work, favouring the repair of tissues by influencing which genes are active and attracting immune cells to help with healing.
As for safety, with some general precautions applied, red light therapy is very safe and tolerated well by most people.
If you are looking for an East Grinstead Osteopath please get in touch with:
Cliff Russell, Registered Osteopath
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