The Science Behind Infrared Light Therapy: Clinical Trial Results and Health Benefits the same in humans, Canines and Equine species.

Infrared light therapy has gained attention as a promising approach for improving health and wellness. But what does science say about its effectiveness? Clinical trials have explored how this therapy works and the benefits it may offer. This post breaks down the key findings from these studies and explains how infrared light therapy could supports health.

Infrared light therapy device in use on skin

What Is Infrared Light Therapy?

Infrared light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light, invisible to the naked eye, to penetrate the skin and reach deeper tissues. This light stimulates cells and promotes biological processes that can aid healing and reduce pain. Unlike ultraviolet light, infrared light does not damage the skin but instead supports cell function.

The therapy is typically delivered through wearable panels that emit near-infrared or far-infrared light. Sessions usually last from a few minutes to half an hour, depending on the condition being treated.

How Clinical Trials Have Tested Infrared Light Therapy

Researchers have conducted clinical trials to test infrared light therapy on various health issues. These studies often involve controlled groups receiving either the therapy or a placebo treatment, allowing scientists to measure real effects.

Some of the main areas tested include:

• Pain relief for conditions like arthritis and muscle soreness

• Wound healing and skin repair

• Improvement in circulation and blood flow

• Reduction of inflammation in chronic conditions

• Muscle recovery after exercise

  
  

Trials vary in size and design, but many have shown promising results supporting the therapy’s benefits.

Pain Relief and Inflammation Reduction

One of the most studied benefits is pain relief. Clinical trials have found that infrared light therapy can dramatically reduce pain from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic lower back pain. The light helps by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation in affected tissues.

For example, a 2017 study published in Pain Research and Management showed that patients with knee osteoarthritis experienced significant pain reduction and improved joint function after several weeks of infrared therapy. The treatment also lowered markers of inflammation in the body.

This suggests infrared light therapy could be a useful non-drug option for managing chronic pain.

Supporting Wound Healing and Skin Health

Infrared light therapy has been tested for its ability to speed up wound healing. Clinical trials involving diabetic foot ulcers and surgical wounds found that infrared light helped tissues regenerate faster and reduced healing time.

The light stimulates fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and repairing skin. It also improves circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients needed for tissue repair.

A 2018 trial in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery reported faster closure of chronic wounds in patients treated with infrared light compared to those receiving standard care. This points to potential benefits for people with slow-healing wounds or skin damage.

Enhancing Circulation and Muscle Recovery

Infrared light therapy can improve blood flow by dilating blood vessels. This effect has been confirmed in clinical trials measuring circulation in limbs and muscles.

Better circulation means more oxygen and nutrients reach muscles, which supports recovery after exercise or injury. Athletes have used infrared therapy to reduce muscle soreness and speed up healing.

A study published in The Journal of Athletic Training found that infrared therapy applied after intense exercise reduced muscle fatigue and improved recovery times. This makes it a helpful tool for both professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

Safety and Side Effects

Clinical trials generally report that infrared light therapy is safe when used properly. Side effects are rare and usually mild, such as temporary redness or warmth at the treatment site.

Because the therapy does not use UV rays, it avoids risks like skin burns or DNA damage.

Practical Tips for Using Infrared Light Therapy

If you consider trying infrared light therapy, here are some practical points based on clinical findings:

• Use devices that emit wavelengths between 700 nm and 1200 nm for best penetration

• Follow recommended session lengths, usually 10 to 30 minutes

• Treat the affected area consistently, often daily or several times per week

  
  
  
  

Summary of Key Benefits Backed by Clinical Trials

• Pain relief in arthritis and chronic conditions

• Faster wound healing and skin repair

• Improved blood circulation

• Reduced inflammation

• Enhanced muscle recovery after exercise

  
  

These benefits come from the light’s ability to stimulate cellular activity, increase blood flow, and support natural healing processes.

The trials done in humans directly relate to the benefits experienced in animals. there are many additional studies that point to the same benefits when used in Canine and equine specimens.