Pain can have many causes, and inflammation is often a significant factor. Therefore, it is crucial to reduce inflammatory processes to relieve pain. By speeding up the healing process, the time the body needs to defend itself against pain is also reduced. Red light therapy offers a method that has been shown to be effective for chronic pain that is not related to acute injuries.

The effect of near-infrared light

It is above all the near-infrared light (NIR) that penetrates deep into the tissues and provides the best pain-relieving effect. A study that followed 40 patients for six years showed a significant reduction in back pain without any side effects. The study used portable devices that emit near-infrared light, but a small hand-held device that combines red and near-infrared light can also be used. The red light is harmless and can even contribute to pain relief.

Increased endorphins and invisible light

One of the reasons for the pain relief is increased production of endorphins, the body's own "morphine", which is stimulated by red light. The good thing about near-infrared light is that it is invisible to the naked eye, allowing you to treat yourself without drawing attention to yourself. Many advanced lamps allow you to choose between red and near-infrared light, so you can get a NIR treatment at any time.

Northern Recovery – a natural alternative

At Northern Recovery, red light therapy is seen as a natural alternative to painkillers. In the case of moderate pain, the effect is said to be equivalent to medication, but without side effects. Regular use of painkillers can lead to a lowered pain threshold, while red light therapy does not have the same risks. In severe pain, a combination of painkillers and red light therapy can be more effective than drugs alone.

Research on pain and red light therapy

A comprehensive review of 22 studies showed that 19 of them documented a positive effect of red light therapy. Markers of inflammation and pain, such as PGE2, Cox 2, IL-1-beta and TNF-alpha, were reduced, and oxidative stress, swelling and bleeding were also reduced in a dose-related manner. The study determined that red light therapy was as effective as NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen.

Choose Northern Recovery over pills

In conclusion, red light therapy is a healthier, cheaper and safer alternative to painkillers. For best effect, aim the lamp at the painful areas and give yourself enough treatment time. Although overindulgence is not good, you will likely know when it is time to stop. Follow the recommended treatment times to ensure you get the best possible results.