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.
A Brighter Path to Recovery
The process of going through surgery and recovery can be daunting, but with red light therapy, there’s light (pun intended) at the end of the tunnel. Red light therapy offers hope to those navigating the challenging road of shoulder surgery.
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