Red Light Therapy For Neuropathy - Review Of Scientific Studies
Key Takeaways
What Is Neuropathy?
Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Neuropathy
Inducing Growth Factors
Red light therapy has been shown to induce the production of growth factors in cells. These are proteins that play a crucial role in cell proliferation, differentiation, and tissue repair. Growth factors promote the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and proteins, leading to increased cellular activity and enhanced healing processes.
This means accelerated wound healing, tissue regeneration in nerves, joints, muscles & the nervous system, and overall cellular rejuvenation. Additionally, the induction of growth factors may contribute to improved collagen production, aiding in skin health and the reduction of wrinkles.
"Moreover, low-level laser radiation enhanced the production and release of various small molecules and growth factors, including TGF-β, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), platelet-derived growth factor, and glial-derived neurotrophic factor." [Dompe C, Moncrieff L, et al.]
"In this study, LED irradiation improved nerve regeneration and increased antioxidation levels in the chamber fluid. Therefore, we propose that antioxidation induced by LEDs may be conducive to nerve regeneration." [Ishiguro M, Ikeda K, et al.]
Protecting Nerve Cells
Myelin is the protective covering of nerve fibers. When this protection is damaged through auto-immune reactions (e.g. MS), diabetes (diabetic neuropathy), certain medications or infections, it can lead to a variety of neurological issues, such as vision loss, pain, numerous muscular problems, mood disturbances, sensations of tingling, and impaired mobility, among others.
Red light therapy protects this protective covering in 2 ways:
"Laser therapy is a non-invasive method that contributes to pain relief and reduces inflammation, parallel to the enhanced healing and tissue repair processes." [Dompe C, Moncrieff L, et al.]
"Our results demonstrate that low level laser therapy stimulate human schwann cell proliferation and NGF gene expression in vitro." [Saeed Oraee Yazdani, Azadeh Fahim Golestaneh, et al.]
Pain Relief
Red light therapy can help alleviate pain by modulating pain-signaling pathways in the body through the release of neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, such as endogenous opioids and serotonin. These substances help to inhibit pain transmission and modulate pain perception.
Additionally, better microcirculation promoting the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and the warmth of the red light relaxes the muscles. Thus, red light therapy offers a non-invasive and drug-free method to manage and reduce pain for older adults.
“In addition to the demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects, LLLT may have benefits provided by its ability to act on nerves by reducing pain transmission and activating endogenous opioid receptors” [Hamblin MR]
Reduction Of Inflammation
Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or irritation, and it often involves the release of chemicals that can cause pain. Inflamed tissues can also restrict movement, cause stiffness and compress surrounding nerves leading to further discomfort.
Red light therapy has been found to activate anti-inflammatory responses in the body, which helps reduce pain and inflammation. It works by inhibiting the inflammatory signaling pathway.
This means that red light therapy can help decrease an excessive and uncontrolled inflammatory response in the body such as swelling. This is especially beneficial for older adults who may experience chronic inflammation.
"Laser therapy is a non-invasive method that contributes to pain relief and reduces inflammation, parallel to the enhanced healing and tissue repair processes." [Dompe C, Moncrieff L, et al.]
"A single application of LLLT produced significant reductions in inflammatory cell infiltration and inflammatory cytokines" [Hamblin MR]
Increased Blood Flow
Another significant benefit of red light therapy is its ability to improve blood circulation. The light energy stimulates the formation of new capillaries, enhancing blood flow to injured areas. This increased circulation delivers vital oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells necessary for efficient healing. By allowing for better delivery of essential resources, new capillaries expedite the healing process.
Improved blood flow also aids in removing waste products and toxins from affected areas, and creates an optimal environment for tissue repair and regeneration. Thus, further supporting the body's natural healing mechanisms.
"A significant increase in blood flow was noted in the treated group" [Frangez I, Cankar K, et al.]
"The results indicated that LLLT accelerated collateral circulation and enhanced microcirculation" [Ihsan FR]
Accelerate Tissue Repair & Healing
Deep healing red light therapy has been shown to restore normal mitochondrial functioning through a process known as photobiomodulation.
This is because red light therapy stimulates the production of cellular energy, called adenosine triphosphate or ATP. Cellular energy naturally slows down as we age, and by restoring our cellular energy through the use of red light photons, our cells can function better.
As a result, our cells can repair and replace damaged tissue faster allowing our body’s innate healing processes to work at their optimal level to keep our body pain-free.
“The photons are absorbed by mitochondrial chromophores in skin cells. Consequently, electron transport, adenosine triphosphate nitric oxide release, blood flow, reactive oxygen species increase, and diverse signaling pathways are activated. Stem cells can be activated, allowing increased tissue repair and healing.” [Avci P, Gupta A, Sadasivam M, Vecchio D, Pam Z, Pam N, Hamblin MR]
Scientific Evidence for Red Light Therapy For Neuropathy
Recommended Treatment Protocol
Side Effects & Risks
Red light therapy is considered safe to use, especially for older adults. It has virtually no risks or serious side effects.
Some people with light or skin sensitivities may experience mild side effects like skin irritation. These side effects are typically mild and temporary and should subside within a few hours of treatment.
To ensure the safety and effectiveness of red light therapy, it is crucial to choose FDA-approved devices. FDA approval indicates that the device has undergone rigorous testing and meets certain standards for safety and performance.
Conclusion
Targeted Treatment For Specific Areas
While red light therapy proves to be highly effective, not all red light therapy devices are created equal. Pads are designed to target specific areas of the body, while panels emit light over a much broader area.
Red light therapy for this condition requires deep penetration, which is why a red light therapy belt is far more effective than a red light therapy panel. You can put a red light therapy belt closer to your skin, and don’t have to stand bare naked in front of a panel for 20 minutes.
By focusing the therapy on specific areas, you maximize its benefits outlined above and reduce pain more effectively.
Consistency is one of the most important variables to the effectiveness of red light therapy when it comes to pain relief, so ease of use should be a major criteria for consideration. Red light therapy belts are convenient and easy to incorporate into your daily routine. They are portable, which means you can wear them while pursuing other activities, or even take them on your next trip.
Choosing the Right Red Light Therapy Device
Neuropathy Light Therapy System™
Frequently Asked Questions
How does red light therapy benefit neuropathy?
Is red light therapy safe for neuropathy?
How long does a red light therapy session for neuropathy last?
How many sessions of red light therapy are needed to see benefits for neuropathy?
Are there any side effects associated with using red light therapy for neuropathy?
Do I need a prescription for red light therapy devices?
