Seeking relief for joint pain? Indeed, more and more arthritis sufferers are exploring red light therapy as an arthritis treatment. Alternative remedies like this are becoming more popular.

What kind of arthritis do you have? 

The term arthritis includes a broad range of diseases that cause painful inflammation of the tissue where bones connect. With osteoarthritis your joints wear down from use. With rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases, your body’s immune system attacks its own joint tissue.

Who gets arthritis? 

Typically people develop arthritis when their joints wear down with age and overuse. Those who are overweight suffer more because the additional weight puts added stress on joints. You don’t need to be old to develop arthritis. For example, injuries, even at a young age, can cause arthritis. Plus, you can contract autoimmune diseases that affect joints and cause pain. Some foods might even cause arthritis.

What does arthritis feel like? 

Joints with arthritis can swell and feel stiff, with limited motion. Pain can be mild or severe, and can flare up with changes in the weather. 

How is arthritis usually treated?

Many people use over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, to reduce minor or intermittent swelling and relieve pain. Accordingly, doctors sometimes prescribe pharmaceuticals for severe cases, especially for rheumatoid arthritis. In the worst cases, surgery may repair badly damaged tissue sustained by injuries or wear.

Can red light therapy help with arthritis? 

First, understand how red light therapy works. Since certain wavelengths of light are proven to signal damaged cells to repair and healthy cells to reproduce, red light therapy can counteract the inflammation caused by arthritis. 

Does science support the success of red light treatment for arthritis? 

To begin with, a 2011 study on rabbits shows red light therapy increased collagen expression, which can improve joint tissue. Then, a 2013 study on humans with chronic osteoarthritis reported reduced pain for study participants.

What is the ideal treatment?

An FDA-cleared at-home device’s standard recommended wavelength is safe and effective. Your healthcare professional may advise a longer wavelength treatment. Typically, above 800nm of a 110mW/cm2 at 6” away is going to penetrate deeper to target joint inflammation.

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