After shoulder surgery, patients typically face a recovery period of several months, with postoperative discomfort and inflammation being unwelcome side effects.
To help you get back fighting fit as soon as possible, we’re delving into the healing potential of red light therapy after shoulder surgery, as well as looking at the challenges of managing pain and how this form of treatment can alleviate discomfort, reduce inflammation, and accelerate the healing process - providing that support that many people are searching for.
What is Red Light Therapy and How Does it Help Healing Post-Surgery?
Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths to stimulate cellular activity and promote function, repair, and regeneration.
It can be used in a targeted way, so there’s ultimate precision as you can apply it directly to your shoulder area. Once the light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by cells, it stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is an energy-carrying molecule that works like a charged battery or a full piggy bank; you can store energy in it and withdraw when needed.
This increased cellular energy leads to enhanced tissue repair, reduced inflammation, and the release of endorphins which are the body's natural pain relievers.
The Science Behind Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy typically uses wavelengths between 600 to 700 nanometers (nm) and near-infrared wavelengths between 780 to 850 nm. These wavelengths have been shown to penetrate tissues effectively, and this technology can reach a depth of several centimeters beneath the skin’s surface, making it suitable for treating tissues affected by shoulder surgery.
Red light therapy also utilizes non-ionizing radiation, which is safe and does not damage DNA or cells. It operates within a safe range of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Inflammation is a perfect example of what red light therapy can treat and soothe. Like the above, when the skin absorbs light at these wavelengths, it triggers a series of events at the cellular level that can modulate the production of inflammatory mediators. The main mechanisms involved in inflammation reduction through light therapy include:
Decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine production: Light therapy can downregulate the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), reducing inflammation.
Increased anti-inflammatory cytokine production: Light therapy can promote the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-10 (IL-10), which helps to resolve inflammation.
Enhanced cellular repair and regeneration: Light therapy can stimulate cellular processes that promote tissue repair and regeneration, thereby alleviating inflammation.
Is Red Light Therapy Safe?
The short answer? Yes, red light therapy is a safe practice.
This non-invasive and non-thermal treatment doesn’t produce heat and pose the risks associated with surgical procedures or medications. There isn’t a long list of uncomfortable side effects or a huge mental and physical mountain to overcome before using it.
There are very few risks associated with red light therapy. But to ensure your safety, it’s important to purchase your red light therapy device from a trusted company that uses high-quality materials and follows industry standards for safety and efficacy.
Another way to ensure maximum safety and comfort is by using eye protection as a precaution. This is particularly beneficial if using a full-body device or a facial panel, especially if you suffer from light sensitivity, epilepsy, or migraines.
This could be in the form of goggles, glasses, or even simple eye masks. These can help shield your eyes from the bright light emitted by red light therapy devices and prevent any discomfort or irritation from exposure to the light.
If you’re using a targeted device that won’t be directing light toward your eyes, eye protection isn’t as needed.
Understanding Post-Shoulder Surgery Pain
Shoulder surgery may be necessary for various medical conditions and injuries. While surgery aims to alleviate pain and restore the full function of the ailment, post-op pain and discomfort can be a difficult period.
Once home or in the recovery phase, patients will feel varying levels of pain. This is expected and not something to worry about unless you feel it’s going beyond what would usually be anticipated. Your healthcare provider will likely explain the recovery stage and the estimated pain intensity and duration.
Although it can feel difficult, which is completely understandable, partaking in activities that provide effective pain management can be pivotal.
This could include a physical therapy program, resting, pain management techniques, or red light therapy. Red light therapy offers a non-invasive solution to mitigate the usual challenges in the post-surgery stage.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy provides several benefits for post-shoulder surgery recovery. By promoting the release of endorphins and reducing inflammation, red light therapy can effectively alleviate post-operative pain without the need for pain medications.
The stimulation of ATP production accelerates tissue repair, allowing patients to recover more swiftly. All the while, the help with pain management provides relief quickly.
One of the main aspects of this type of therapy is the ability to reduce swelling and inflammation. This is key to making you more comfortable in the days, weeks, and months after the operation.
The use of red light therapy after shoulder surgery has another advantage; it has shown promise in improving mood and reducing depression symptoms as it enhances the brain’s production of serotonin.
How Soon After Surgery Can You Use Red Light Therapy?
Generally, it’s advisable to initiate red light therapy once the initial surgical wound has completely healed and any stitches or staples have been safely removed. This point marks a turning stage in your recovery and can range from a few days to several weeks after your shoulder has been operated on.
As always, consult with your surgeon or healthcare professional if there are any concerns.
Integrating Red Light Therapy Into Recovery
Choose a high-quality device
Red light therapy can specifically target the pain within your shoulder. Once the wound is healed, you can apply the light to the desired area. But first, you must select the most appropriate red light therapy device.
There are different devices on the market, so research to see which is the best for you.
Here at Kineon, our medical-grade laser device - called Move+ Pro - is trusted by top health experts and professionals worldwide.
From incredible athletes like Emily Rolfe and Travis Mayer to chiropractors like Dr. Garrett Brown and nutritionist Ben Greenfield - our work and device’s quality has been recognized and are being relied upon by distinguished healthcare professionals and elite athletes alike.
Our unique red light therapy device also has the optimal dosage every time you use it. This means you’ll have the correct and consistent amount of light for fast and effective relief.
Read and follow the instructions
Before using the Move+ Pro, read the user manual carefully and follow the recommended usage guidelines. This includes proper treatment duration, distance from the device, and specific safety recommendations for eye protection.
Use the device consistently
Once your Kineon (formerly Reviiv Light) Move+ Pro device arrives and you’ve read through the instructions, you can apply it to your shoulder for around 5-15 minutes per day for optimal results.
It might feel a nuisance to sit with it for a while, but consistency is key for helping the affected area. Doing 5-15 minutes per day will be more effective than doing longer sessions more sporadically.
Red Light Therapy Success Stories
Red light therapy has already changed the lives of many patients. To truly grasp the remarkable potential of red light therapy in relieving post-shoulder surgery pain, we turn to the real-life experiences of individuals who have discovered its transformative effects.
These are real reviews from people who have used the Move+ Pro device:
Tim W has increased his quality of life exponentially through red light therapy: “I can sleep again. For 20+ years, my shoulder pain has gotten progressively worse to the point that it’s difficult to sleep. With Move+ Pro, I had significant pain relief the first night, and it’s getting better over two weeks to a 70-80% reduction in my pain.
“Rarely feel any pain during the day. I think I still need my paid med (meloxicam), but the shoulder pain no longer wakes me up. I’m kind of blown away by how effective it has been.”
Steve Baker has had a similar experience (as has many people worldwide): “I’ve been using my Move+ religiously on my elbows and shoulders for about 4-5 months now. I’m 58 years old and still am an avid bodybuilder/strength trainer and have developed osteoarthritis in those areas, as well as reduced cartilage with tendon and ligament issues.
“I am now virtually pain-free in those areas. My shoulders and elbows have undergone a remarkable recovery.”
Here’s another from a Kineon customer who once experienced a painful shoulder:
Best Products For Shoulder Surgery Recovery
Kineon’s Move+ Pro, the state-of-the-art red light therapy device, is proven to make shoulder recovery smoother. The cutting-edge technology tackles joint pain and improves the healing process for injured tissues.
Customers who have used the Move+ Pro, a portable red light therapy device, report an 80% reduction in pain within 1-4 weeks!
The MOVE+ Pro isn't about false promises; it's a reliable companion for targeted relief, addressing those nagging joint issues. It zeros in on inflammation, providing the comfort needed during shoulder surgery recovery.
Embracing modern forms of healing, such as the MOVE+ Pro, is a quick way to regain shoulder movement or ease post-surgery discomfort.
A Brighter Path to Recovery
The process of going through surgery and recovery can be daunting, but with Kineon, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Red light therapy offers hope to those navigating the challenging road due to its healing powers.
When using red light therapy after shoulder surgery, you’ll feel the results - with some people reporting a reduction of chronic pain in as little as 5 minutes.
You can also treat your pain at home with the Move+ Pro, as it’s a small device that is completely wireless, meaning you can use it whenever and wherever you want.
Our device is also FDA-registered, so you can be rest assured that you’re getting a reliable and effective device to help you achieve your post-surgery goals.
If you’re ready to create an end to your relentless pain, consider purchasing the Move+ Pro. If you’re not impressed or happy with your results, you can return it within 30 days. It’s as easy as that!
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