Do you suffer from joint pain and arthritis? If so, you’re not alone. These conditions can be extremely debilitating and affect millions of people worldwide. According to the U.S. Center For Disease Control And Prevention, 53 million Americans suffer from Arthritis. This figure is expected to rise as people continue to live for longer with advances in healthcare.
Fortunately, there is a new treatment option that may help improve your symptoms: red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation.
In this blog post, we will discuss how red light therapy works and how it can help treat joint pain and arthritis.
We’ll also dig deep into some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about this type of treatment so that you can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you!
Let’s get into it…
How Red Light Therapy Helps Treat Joint Pain
The science behind red light therapy is quite simple. This type of treatment uses red LED lights in order to target the affected area and promote natural healing.
The light waves penetrate deep into the skin, activating cell regeneration and healing from the inside out.
It also:
Helps Relieve Pain
In a double-blind research study, 50 patients with degenerative osteoarthritis in both knees were treated for 10 days with red light, infrared light, or a placebo treatment. The research showed that in the placebo group, there were no noticeable pain reductions. However, the red and infrared groups reported pain reductions of more than 50%! This led to researchers concluding that red light therapy “is effective in relieving pain and disability in degenerative osteoarthritis of the knee.” [1]
Improves Collagen Production
A randomized, controlled study investigated the effect of red light therapy on collagen density in 136 volunteers over 30 sessions. They found that there was a statistically significant increase in collagen density in the volunteers who received red light therapy, indicating that the light was effective in promoting collagen production.[2]
Increases Blood Flow
A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of low-level laser therapy (another name for red light therapy) for Achilles tendinitis found that it “increased intratendinous blood flow in all 14 tendons” meaning increased blood flow to an area that needs healing, which is a good indication the treatment is working! [3]
Reduces Inflammation
Harvard researcher Michael R Hamblin says that “One of the most reproducible effects of PBM is an overall reduction in inflammation, which is particularly important for disorders of the joints, traumatic injuries, lung disorders, and in the brain”. Check out his full write-up about “Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation” for a more in-depth look. [4]
Stimulates Mitochondrial Energy Production
We took a deep dive into this topic when we looked at Increased Mitochondrial Energy For Faster Muscle Recovery, but we’ll give you a brief overview here to get you up to speed. In a nutshell, mitochondrial energy production is the process of converting nutrients into usable energy for your cells to function and stay healthy. So if we can make this process more efficient, we can increase cellular energy production and improve overall health.
Types of Joint Pain Treatable with Red Light Therapy
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Bursitis
- Tendonitis
- Back pain
- Sciatica
- Fibromyalgia
As you can see, red light therapy can treat a wide variety of types of joint pain. This is because it targets the tissues that are affected directly by these conditions, rather than trying to relieve the pain by targeting other body systems or the whole body as a whole.
Recommended devices for joint pain: we recommend NIR and targeted red light therapy
As red light therapy continues to increase in popularity, you’ll probably be aware of the different forms that are now widely available. One of these is known as panels. Very briefly, panel systems are large red light sheet-like devices that require the user to stand or sit in front of them. They target a much larger treatment area using less focused, shallower penetration depths.
To keep this article concise, I won’t go into too much detail about them. Like most things, they do have their specific uses. However, we don’t recommend them for treating joint pain and inflammation. To read a more detailed explanation about why, check out our red light therapy panels versus targeted red light therapy article to see why targeted would be a better option.
The biggest reason why we recommend NIR and targeted red light therapy for joint pain and inflammation is the specific focus it allows. More often than not, the pain and inflammation develop in the localized area when suffering from muscle and joint injuries. The increased focus allows specific targeting for the problem area, providing deeper, more effective penetration.
Using NIR and targeted red light therapy allows you to work in and around the joints and muscles rather than just around them. This is an important fact to consider when looking to promote increased cellular activity and rejuvenation.
To put this information into practice, let’s look at a real-life example from none other than CrossFit legend Kelly Stone. Alongside being a CrossFit athlete, Kelly is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with several years of experience in sports and rehabilitation settings.
Alongside this, she is certified in Functional Dry Needling, and as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist. So yeah, we would say that she offers credible opinions on rehabilitation and health. Here’s what she said:
“I highly recommend the move+ to help patients suffering from arthritis as a non-invasive, safe, and convenient treatment tool to help manage the symptoms of arthritis. The MOVE+ is portable, easy to use, and can be seamlessly integrated into your daily activities in as little as 5 minutes. Additionally, one of the most effective treatments for arthritis is gentle active exercise. However, individuals with arthritis often limit movement due to pain, inflammation, and decreased mobility. By adding red light therapy with the move+ to a current treatment plan, individuals are often able to tolerate more exercise and further reduce symptoms with a combined approach.”
As you can read from Kelly’s quote, she’s quite pleased with the NIR and targeted red light therapy that the MOVE+ offers. Her message is simple — Utilize the portability of the MOVE+ device to your advantage, combining it with your current treatment plan. A combined approach using the fundamental basics and innovative recovery methods gives you the best chance of success.
Why NIR Is Best for Arthritis and Joint Pain
Unfortunately, many traditional treatments for joint pain and arthritis are ineffective because they don’t address the root cause of the problem. Instead, they focus on treating the symptoms while the underlying cause continues to worsen over time.
Not only that, but they often come loaded with harmful side effects that can leave you feeling worse than you did before!
For example, common painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can cause gastrointestinal issues, kidney damage, and even fatal liver failure in some cases.
By contrast, infrared light therapy is a natural solution for treating joint pain that doesn’t have any of the dangerous side effects of conventional medications…
Non-Invasive
One of the biggest benefits of red and NIR light therapy is the non-invasive nature of the treatment. Unlike some other treatments like surgery or physical therapy, infrared therapy doesn’t require any invasive procedures or extended recovery times.
This is especially the case when using portable recovery devices such as the MOVE+. The combination of the adjustable nodes and strap gives you total freedom over how you use it. In most cases, you can simply strap it on, set the timer, and forget about it.
In terms of recovery devices, this is probably about as non-invasive as you can get! Use it on the bus, at work, or even when doing the dishes.
No Side Effects
As mentioned above, one of the biggest drawbacks of traditional treatments for joint pain and arthritis is that they come with harmful and sometimes dangerous side effects.
That’s not the case with infrared light therapy though! Since it uses safe infrared light rays rather than harsh chemicals or pharmaceuticals, it doesn’t come with any potentially harmful side effects.
That means you can use the device safely without having to worry about unwanted side effects on top of the already unpleasant symptoms you’re experiencing!
*Of course, like anything, you need to make sure you follow the instructions to correctly use it. Alongside ensuring it’s being used as intended, it also prevents any possible side effects that may occur from incorrect use.
We provide a step-by-step guide on how to correctly use red light therapy to treat joint pain and arthritis below.
Treat In Your Own Home
Another benefit of infrared light therapy is the fact that you don’t have to go anywhere for treatment! All you have to do is use the portable device in the comfort of your own home and benefit from all of the therapeutic benefits it offers.
There’s no need for time-consuming doctor’s appointments or expensive trips to a clinic or hospital either… Simply attach a portable red light therapy device, like the Move+, to your joints and sit back as the red light technology works to relieve your pain and inflammation naturally!
Long Term Results
It’s well known that traditional treatment for joint pain and arthritis only provides temporary relief at best. Whether that’s in the form of painkillers or anti-inflammatory medication, the pain will eventually come back unless you get some sort of long-term treatment to address the problem.
The same thing can be said for other non-invasive alternatives like physical therapy or massage therapy. While those treatments can help in the short term, they don’t provide a long-term solution to your problem.
That’s why many people suffering from chronic joint pain are turning to red and NIR light therapy instead – because the benefits it offers are long-lasting!
Once you’ve experienced the benefits of red light therapy for your joint pain, all you need to do is keep using the device on a regular basis to maintain the results and prevent it from coming back!
Usually, using the device 2-3 times per week is enough to maintain results and ensure your joint pain doesn’t return. This is far less than the suggested 4-6 hour dosage periods commonly prescribed for certain pain medications.
A Step-By-Step Guide to Treating Joint Pain and Arthritis with Red Light Therapy
While it might be good to bend the rules in some situations, this isn’t one of them! Using the correct application process allows you to put years of scientific testing into practice. Following the steps detailed below means you’re repeating exactly what was done to get the proven beneficial effects in the first place.
Follow these important steps in the stated order when treating joint pain and arthritis.
Step 1: Prepare the device
- Check the Kineon MOVE+ for any visible signs of damage. We’re very confident in the durability of all our devices. However, it's always good to check as a habit!
- Ensure that the device is fully charged. This can be done by using the docking station at home or while carrying it around in the portable carry pack. If it’s not charged, ensure it’s connected to a power source so it won’t run out midway during the treatment.
- Familiarize yourself with the device controls, reading the instructions provided in the user manual. If you’re unsure, we have a helpful FAQ section on the Kineon website.
- When turning the device on, it should sync so that all modules can be controlled together. This means that they should start and finish at the same time once you’ve set the treatment duration.
Step 2: Position the joint
- Assume a comfortable position for the fitting process. Position the device next to the affected joint.
- Bring the adjustable strap around the joint before securing the buckle in place.
- Adjust the strap as needed. The joint should be comfortably exposed and within reach of the device.
- Position the nodules so they target the affected area. You can change the spacing and angle of them to suit different joint shapes and areas.
Step 3: Apply and secure
- Secure the device in place using the straps, bands, or additional device attachments. The red light nodules that emit the therapeutic light should be in direct contact with the skin.
- The main goal of this step is to ensure a proper and consistent fit. This guarantees that the device is being used as intended.
- Double-check the fitting and nodule orientations before moving to step 4.
Although the device comes with different attachments and strap options, they’re not always necessary. This is just one of the great things about using a portable, adjustable recovery device such as the MOVE+.
When out in the field giving demonstrations, our partnerships and relations manager, Becky Kilby, shows how the MOVE+ can be used without the straps to treat certain body parts if preferred. For example, imagine you’ve got pain in your feet or ankles. It might not make sense to use the strap. In these cases, a tight pair of socks might be enough to keep the device secured.
Of course, if it's near the bottom of your foot, make sure you remember it's there!
This also holds true when targeting small problem areas that are hard to reach. The real beauty of the MOVE+ is that the modules can be detached and used as single units under clothes or in obscure areas.
For example, if you’ve got a sore tooth or gums, unclip a nodule and position it close to the target area. This does require you to manually hold it, but it’s a great way of targeting these hard-to-reach areas.
There are no concrete rules to applying the device as long as it’s snug, against the skin, and in the right position at the area of pain. Follow these points and you’re good to go!
Step 4: Activate and follow the recommended therapy time
- Set the device to the recommended therapy time specified in the user manual or prescribed by your healthcare professional.
- In the case of the MOVE+, this would be 5, 10, or 15 minutes. These pre-set dosage times allow you to set your treatment time and get on with whatever you’re doing.
- Remain relaxed during the therapy session, allowing the device's therapeutic effects to take place.
- Continue with light tasks as needed whether at work, home, or on the go. The applications are endless when correctly applied!
Tips for treating joint pain and Arthritis with Red Light Therapy
While red light therapy does most of the hard work, the four tips below can be used to ensure its effectiveness. We’ve presented these below in no particular order. Add them to your recovery routine!
Tip 1: Assess Your Pain Condition
Assessing your pain condition before starting treatment provides you with a useful baseline that you can work off and build on. It can also help you to adjust and personalize your therapy.
For example, if osteoarthritis is your diagnosis, you’ll want to look at things like how well you’re moving, how stiff or sore you are, and whether your pain has changed over time. This gives you a baseline to work off before implementing the red light therapy. When you have this, you can monitor your symptoms to see how they’re improving with the treatment. From this, adjustments can be made if needed.
Tip 2: Find A Red Light Therapy Device That Works For You
Like most things when it comes to health and fitness, consistency is one of the most important parts of any pain management program.
Using a red light therapy device on a regular basis is the best way to achieve the best results possible. While the benefits are long-term, you’ll still need to top up your treatment. That’s one of the main reasons why the MOVE+ offers so many portability and adjustability options.
It’s important to find a device that works for you and your lifestyle so you can keep doing your treatments regularly.
For example, if your local physical therapy office has a red light therapy device, but you can only make it to appointments a couple of times per month, it may make sense for you to purchase a home device that you can do on your own time each day.
Sometimes, efficiency is key. Using a treatment option that fits around your lifestyle rather than having to change your lifestyle for the treatment can be a vital piece of a wider health puzzle.
Thankfully, here at Kineon, we have developed a portable red light therapy device that you can use from the comfort of your home without any of the limitations associated with visiting a physical therapist’s office.
In just 15 minutes per day, you can get targeted relief from joint pain and arthritis symptoms without having to miss work or take time away from your family!
To learn more, check out our Move+ device here.
Tip 3: Treat Yourself With The Right Amount Of Time For Your Condition
When using red light therapy, it’s important to make sure to get the correct dosage for your condition. As a general guideline, people with pain conditions like arthritis should aim to treat their joints for at least 10 minutes at a time.
On the MOVE+, we have three dosing options of 5, 10, or 15 minutes. With this, you can choose the right amount of time for your condition, press the button, and forget about it. This means that, unlike a timer, you don’t need to keep checking it or adjusting it. With preset treatments, you know for sure that you're getting the right amount needed.
If you have any questions about the right dosage of red light therapy for your condition, feel free to contact us at hello@kineon.io for advice!
Tip 4: Stay Motivated To Make Treatment Part of Your Daily Routine
Achieving long-term results is the key to overcoming joint pain and arthritis using red light therapy, and that’s where regular use of a home red light therapy device comes in!
By making it a part of your daily schedule, you can keep treatment going even when it feels like the pain is getting in the way of your everyday activities. Studies have shown that people who use red light therapy every day experience the most rapid and long-lasting results.
In our experience, short, consistent uses of red light therapy are better than longer sessions.
Treatment plans vary, but to provide a guide, generally, we don’t recommend the device is used any more than twice per day for fifteen minutes max.
Success stories treating hand arthritis, lower back pain, and knee aches with red light therapy
Here are a couple of wholesome examples of where red light therapy has been put into practice. These are just two of many we’ve found online and in the field.
Kelly Stone’s Family Success
Unless you didn’t start reading until this point, you should remember Kelly Stone from earlier in the article. Remember, she has a lot of professional experience treating joint pain with RLT as
part of her intense schedule. However, she has some personal success that we think’s worth sharing!
Here’s a quick background snippet of what she said about her father and his struggles with arthritis.
“My father is an excellent example of the positive impact of red light therapy. He currently suffers from arthritis in his hands, which makes it difficult for him to perform activities that he loves, like golf”
From this, she introduced him to the MOVE+ with the main aim of restoring his hand function and reducing pain.
“After incorporating the MOVE+ 1-2x daily for 3 weeks, he noted a significant reduction in pain and inflammation in his hands, as well as improved mobility and dexterity of his finger joints. He is back to playing golf weekly and incorporates his move+ ongoing to proactively tackle his arthritis.”
After just 3 weeks of using the MOVE+, Kelly was able to help her father by using her own personal experience and the science-based technology of red light therapy.
Braelyn Wood’s Travel Rehab Routine
While we didn’t introduce Braelyn earlier in the article, we think her success story is equally impressive. Like most people in the U.S., Braelyn suffers from back pain alongside the usual aches and pains in her joints. After years of frustration, she turned to the MOVE+ Pro.
“Over the years, I’ve tried countless methods to alleviate pain: morning stretches, infrared mats, massage guns, and even cold plunge tubs. Yet, none have delivered the same immediate relief as the Kineon Move+ Pro Led & Laser.”
When talking about her daily routine, she stated that she’s been using the MOVE+ Pro for the last three months on her lower back and achy knees. She even said she traveled to Hawaii with it for a holiday.
“Within minutes, the tension in my lower back melted away. My body felt looser and lighter, as if I’d just gotten a Swedish massage.”
During her 10-day visit home, she insisted that her parents used the device. Even with the huge 24 sessions per charge, she still found that she needed to recharge it. That’s how it was used as a family!
“If you’re one of the 80% of people who deal with back pain, then I can’t recommend the Kineon Move+ Pro Led & Laser enough”
If you want to read more about her experience in detail, check out her detailed review of the Kineon MOVE+ Pro here!
Joint Pain, Arthritis, And Red Light Therapy FAQs
So, there you have some of the benefits of using red light therapy for joint pain relief! Just like any other kind of therapy, though, there are also a few questions people tend to have about this type of treatment before they start using it…
Here are some of the most common questions that we get asked about red light therapy and joint pain relief!
How Often Should You Use Red Light Therapy For Pain and Arthritis?
The general rule of thumb is that you should use red light therapy daily until your symptoms improve and then reduce your sessions to a couple of times per week once your symptoms have subsided completely.
As discussed earlier in the article, the key to getting the best results with red light therapy is to use it consistently, so it’s important that you keep up a few red light therapy sessions even after your joints start to feel better!
How Long Does It Take For Red Light Therapy Work on Joint Pain?
Using a red light therapy device for 15 minutes per day should help ease the pain associated with arthritis and provide some much-needed relief from inflammation and stiffness.
Unfortunately, it can be quite hard to accurately predict how long it will take before you see improvements in your symptoms, as this can vary depending on the severity and how long you have been suffering from joint pain.
Many people start feeling relief after about a week of consistent use, but you should continue to use the device for several weeks to see the full benefits of this treatment!
Can Red Light Therapy Help Knee Pain?
Simply put, yes! In fact, many studies have shown that using red light therapy can help reduce pain and improve mobility in people suffering from knee arthritis and other kinds of knee pain.
Fun fact: the Move+ was originally designed specifically for knee pain, so it’s tailor-made for you!
Can Red Light Therapy Help Hip Pain?
As we explained earlier, one of the best things about red light therapy is the fact that it targets inflammation in general, so it can help with a wide range of conditions throughout the body!
When it comes to hip pain, research suggests that this type of therapy can provide much-needed relief for people dealing with arthritis of the hips, bursitis, fibromyalgia, and other painful conditions that can affect the hip joint.
Our Move+ device makes it easy to target the hip area due to its fully flexible design that allows you to place the three individual units on the area that is most affected by your pain or discomfort.
Plus, because it has a compact design with no wires, you can use it while on the go so you’re never without a way to treat your pain anywhere you travel!
Sources:
1 – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1727843/
2 – https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/pho.2013.3616
3 – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2491942/
4 – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5523874/
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