What The Research Shows

• A 2020 meta-analysis found low-level laser therapy significantly reduced pain and improved joint function in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis patients

• A study in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery found red light reduced soft tissue injury recovery times by up to 50%

• A 2022 study on chronic back pain showed a 68% pain reduction in the red light group vs. 42% in standard care, with lower NSAID use

• A randomized trial showed photobiomodulation significantly reduced post-operative swelling after total knee replacement, supporting earlier rehabilitation

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​​​Conditions That Respond Well​

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Soft Tissue Injuries

•  Shoulder strains and rotator cuff soreness

• Wrist, hand, and finger injuries

• Knee and ankle sprains

• Neck and upper back muscle tension

• Hip flexor and IT band tightness

Joint Pain & Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, or hand

• General joint stiffness and morning pain

• Chronic inflammatory joint conditions

Post-Surgical Recovery

• Post-surgical hand, wrist, or shoulder recovery

• Knee replacement or ACL repair support

• Recovery from back or hip procedures

• Post-dental or oral surgery healing

Back & Neck Pain

• Chronic lower back tension and disc discomfort

• Cervical tension and neck stiffness

• Nerve-related or radiating pain (consult physician)

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What To Expect

​Many clients notice a reduction in localized discomfort and a sense of ease in the treated area following a session. For acute injuries and post-surgical recovery, results tend to build over several treatments. For chronic pain, a consistent series of sessions is most effective. Red light is a supportive tool — results are best when treatment is regular rather than occasional.​​​​

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Safety and Contraindications

Red light therapy has an excellent safety profile for musculoskeletal applications. Across multiple clinical trials, no serious adverse events have been reported. It is non-thermal — no heat is generated within tissue — and completely non-invasive with no downtime.

Please consult your physician before treatment if you have:

• An implanted electronic device (pacemaker, cochlear implant, defibrillator, spinal stimulator)

• Active cancer or a history of photosensitive conditions in the treatment area

• An active open wound or a recent surgical site — check with your surgeon before treatment

• Pregnancy

Clients are encouraged to continue all prescribed medical treatments, physical therapy, and rehabilitation alongside red light sessions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I have a spot treatment added to a hair or skin appointment?

Yes. A spot treatment can be added to most appointments. It adds approximately 10–15 minutes and targets one specific area (shoulder, hand, knee, neck, etc.).

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Does it hurt?

No. Red light therapy is painless. There is no heat sensation in the tissue, no needles, no pressure. Most clients find it deeply relaxing.

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How is this different from a heating pad or TENS unit?

A heating pad warms surface tissue. Red and near-infrared light penetrate at the cellular level, stimulating actual repair mechanisms inside the cell rather than masking discomfort with heat or electrical stimulation.

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Should I tell my doctor or physical therapist?

Yes, and we encourage it. Red light therapy is widely used as a complementary modality in physical therapy and rehabilitation settings. Most providers are familiar with photobiomodulation and will welcome it as part of your recovery support.

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