Shedding Light on Recovery: Red and Near-Infrared Light Therapy for Musculoskeletal Health
It all begins with an idea.
In recent years, red light therapy (RLT) and near-infrared light therapy (NIR) have gained traction in the world of musculoskeletal care—and for good reason. This non-invasive, drug-free treatment is showing promising results for reducing pain, enhancing tissue repair, and supporting recovery from a wide range of orthopedic conditions.
As a healthcare professional who works closely with individuals dealing with musculoskeletal injuries and chronic conditions, I’ve seen firsthand how this technology can be a valuable complement to traditional treatments.
Let’s explore what red and near-infrared light therapy is, how it works, and the evidence supporting its use in clinical practice.
What Is Red and Near-Infrared Light Therapy?
Red and NIR light therapy—sometimes referred to as photobiomodulation—involves the application of specific wavelengths of light to the body, typically using LED panels or laser devices.
Red light (620–750 nm): Primarily absorbed by the skin and superficial tissues.
Near-infrared light (750–1100 nm): Penetrates deeper, reaching muscles, joints, and connective tissues.
Both types of light work at the cellular level, stimulating mitochondria (the energy producers in cells) to enhance ATP production, reduce oxidative stress, and promote tissue repair and regeneration.
How Does It Work?
The primary mechanism behind red and NIR light therapy is the absorption of light photons by cytochrome c oxidase, a key enzyme in the mitochondrial respiratory chain. This leads to:
Increased cellular energy (ATP)
Improved blood flow
Reduced inflammation
Accelerated healing of soft tissues
Modulation of pain signals
Think of it as giving your cells a “boost”—helping them perform more efficiently during the healing process.
Benefits for Musculoskeletal Conditions
Here are several conditions where red and NIR light therapy has shown positive results:
1. Tendinopathies (e.g., Achilles, rotator cuff, tennis elbow)
Promotes collagen synthesis and tendon healing.
Reduces inflammation and pain.
May be especially helpful during chronic stages where blood flow is limited.
2. Osteoarthritis
Decreases joint pain and stiffness.
Improves joint function and range of motion.
Potentially delays the need for more invasive interventions.
3. Muscle Strains and Recovery
Speeds up muscle regeneration after injury or intense exercise.
Reduces delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
Useful for athletes in recovery phases.
4. Low Back Pain
Provides non-pharmacological pain relief.
May be used in combination with physical therapy or chiropractic care.
5. Post-Surgical Healing
Assists in reducing scar tissue formation.
Accelerates wound closure and tissue repair.
Useful for joint replacements, ligament reconstructions, and soft tissue procedures.
Clinical Considerations
While generally safe and well-tolerated, here are some best practices when using red/NIR therapy in clinical or home settings:
Dosage matters: Too little light won’t produce results, and too much can reduce efficacy. Optimal dosing typically falls between 4–10 J/cm² depending on the condition and depth of the target tissue.
Consistency is key: Most protocols recommend multiple sessions per week for several weeks to see meaningful results.
Professional guidance: A licensed healthcare provider can help determine if light therapy is appropriate and how to integrate it into a broader treatment plan.
What Does the Research Say?
Numerous peer-reviewed studies and systematic reviews support the use of red and NIR light for musculoskeletal health. For example:
A 2017 meta-analysis in Lasers in Medical Science found significant improvements in pain and function among patients with knee osteoarthritis using low-level light therapy.
A 2020 review in Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery concluded that light therapy can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in muscle tissue after intense physical activity.
The World Association for Photobiomodulation Therapy (WALT) has published dosage guidelines based on high-quality clinical evidence.
Final Thoughts
Red and near-infrared light therapy isn’t a magic bullet—but it’s a powerful adjunct tool in the rehabilitation toolbox. When integrated with evidence-based physical therapy, manual therapy, or exercise rehabilitation, it can support faster healing, reduce reliance on pain medications, and improve outcomes for patients with a wide variety of musculoskeletal issues.
If you're curious about whether light therapy could benefit you or your patients, consult with a licensed provider trained in photobiomodulation. With the right guidance, you may find that the path to recovery really can be illuminated.
Keep Fighting the Good Fight
HOW PHYSICAL THERAPY CAN FUEL SUMMER PERFORMANCE GOALS
How Physical Therapy Fuels Your Summer Performance Goals
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, summer invites us to move more, aim higher, and push our limits—whether you're an athlete preparing for competition, a weekend warrior chasing new milestones, or simply someone committed to staying active. But progress doesn’t always come easy. That’s where the mantra “Keep fighting the good fight” takes on new meaning—especially when it comes to physical therapy and performance.
What Does It Mean to “Fight the Good Fight”?
In the context of physical therapy, it means showing up even when it’s tough. It means trusting the process when the results aren’t instant. It means putting in the reps, doing the mobility work, adjusting your mindset, and staying patient through setbacks. It’s about choosing consistency over comfort and resilience over resignation.
Summer Goals Start with a Strong Foundation
Whether your goal is to:
Run your first 10K,
Improve your agility for a team sport,
Recover from an injury and return stronger,
Or simply stay pain-free while enjoying hikes, bikes, or swims,
…you need a solid physical foundation. That’s where physical therapy and performance training intersect. Our job is to help you move better, prevent injury, and build the capacity to meet your goals—not just survive summer activity, but thrive in it.
The Summer Challenge: Push, But Don’t Break
Summer performance goals often lead to increased activity and intensity. But more isn’t always better. Without proper mechanics, mobility, and recovery strategies, pushing harder can lead to setbacks. Physical therapy helps fine-tune your movement patterns, correct imbalances, and give your body what it needs to adapt.
And when things do get tough—like nagging pain, tightness, or mental fatigue—that’s not a signal to stop. It’s a signal to adjust. That’s what the “good fight” is all about. Fighting for your long-term health and goals, not just quick fixes.
How to Keep Fighting the Good Fight
Set Smart, Measurable Goals
Instead of vague goals like “get in shape,” aim for specifics: “improve my 1-mile time by 30 seconds” or “bike 50 miles without knee pain.”Stay Accountable
Work with a physical therapist, coach, or training partner who keeps you on track. Accountability fuels momentum.Respect Recovery
Recovery isn’t weakness—it’s strategy. Sleep, nutrition, hydration, and rest days are part of the plan.Celebrate Small Wins
Progress is rarely linear. Celebrate each gain—more range of motion, less pain, a personal best—because it means you're moving forward.Remember Your Why
On the hard days, reflect on why you started. Every rep, stretch, and session is a step closer to your summer goal.
Final Thought
This summer, whatever your performance goal may be, don’t just train—train smart. Don’t just rehab—rebuild with purpose. And when it gets tough, remember: Keep fighting the good fight. You’re not just building a better body—you’re building grit, confidence, and momentum that lasts long after the season ends.
We’re here to fight alongside you.
Ready to crush your summer goals? Let’s get started—together.
Return 2 Run Program: Bone Stress Injuries
Rebuilding Your Stride: Returning to Running After a Bone Stress Injury
A bone stress injury (BSI) can feel like a major detour on your running journey. Whether it’s a stress reaction or a full-blown stress fracture, the path back to running requires patience, planning, and a smart progression.
If you’re coming back from a BSI, the goal isn’t just to run again—it’s to run better, stronger, and without risk of re-injury. That’s where a structured Return to Run Program comes in.
Understanding Bone Stress Injuries
Bone stress injuries occur when the repetitive impact of activity outpaces the body’s ability to repair and rebuild bone. Common sites for runners include the tibia, metatarsals, and femur. They often develop slowly—starting with an ache that becomes more persistent, especially during or after runs.
Healing is non-negotiable. Once cleared to begin loading again, a progressive return to running plan helps reintroduce stress in a controlled way.
Key Principles of a Safe Return
Clearance First
You should be pain-free with walking and daily activities and have your bone healing confirmed by your medical provider before starting.Walk Before You Run
You should tolerate 30–45 minutes of brisk walking without pain. That builds the base for reintroducing impact and loading.Use a Phased, Interval-Based Program
Gradual run/walk intervals allow your body to adapt without overwhelming the healing tissue. Think of it as teaching your body to run again—step by step.Monitor Symptoms Closely
Soreness is okay. Pain is not. Discomfort that lingers beyond 24 hours post-run is a red flag to scale back.
Don't Skip These Supporting Elements
Strength Training: Key for bone density, shock absorption, and addressing muscular imbalances.
Nutrition: Under-eating is a major contributor to BSI. Ensure adequate energy availability, especially carbs and calcium/vitamin D.
Biomechanical Assessment: Work with a PT to assess your form, stride, and movement patterns.
Shoes & Surfaces: Run in well-cushioned, appropriate footwear. Start on softer surfaces like grass or tracks before progressing to concrete.
Final Thought
Recovering from a bone stress injury isn’t just about healing—it’s about learning. What led to the injury? What can you change—training load, nutrition, technique—to prevent recurrence? The return to running is your opportunity to rebuild with intention and confidence.
Take it slow. Listen to your body. And remember—your strongest miles are still ahead.
If you're unsure how to start or want a personalized return-to-run plan, we’re here to help. Let’s get you back on the road, smarter and stronger.