Photobiomodulation: Red Light Therapy

Photobiomodulation is a medical term made up of three parts:

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• Photo means “light”

• Bio means “body” or “life”

• Modulation means “change” or “adjustment”

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So, photobiomodulation literally means “changing the body using light.” It refers to a gentle treatment where specific wavelengths of light are used to naturally stimulate the body’s cells, helping them heal, reduce pain, and decrease inflammation. It’s painless, non-invasive, and has been studied in thousands of scientific research papers for its health benefits.

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How Does It Work?

Red and near-infrared light shine onto your skin and are absorbed by your mitochondria. This boosts your cells’ energy, helping them repair and regenerate more efficiently. As a result, your body’s natural healing processes are activated, which can lead to less pain, less swelling, and faster recovery. It is a useful adjunct alongside SCENAR therapy which is why we often use a combination of these techniques during your treatment session.

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The Role of Cytochrome c Oxidase

Red light therapy works at the cellular level by directly supporting your mitochondria—the “power plants” inside your cells that produce energy. A key part of this process involves a special enzyme called cytochrome c oxidase.

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What is Cytochrome c Oxidase?
Cytochrome c oxidase is a crucial enzyme found in the mitochondria. Its main job is to help your cells turn oxygen and nutrients into energy (ATP), which your body uses to function and heal. It’s the final step in the cell’s energy-making process and is responsible for most of the oxygen your body uses.

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How Does Red Light Therapy Affect Cytochrome c Oxidase?

• When red and near-infrared light is shined on your body, these wavelengths are absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase.

• This light energy “activates” the enzyme, making it work more efficiently.

• As a result, your cells can produce more ATP (energy), use oxygen more effectively, and support faster healing and repair.

• Red light can also help cytochrome c oxidase release nitric oxide, which can further improve blood flow and cellular function.

Why Is This Important?
By helping cytochrome c oxidase do its job better, red light therapy gives your cells an energy boost right where they need it. This increased energy helps reduce pain and inflammation, speeds up tissue repair, and supports overall well-being.

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What Are the Benefits?

Red light therapy has been shown to help with:

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• Reducing pain and inflammation (such as in the back, neck, joints, or after surgery)

• Speeding up healing of wounds, injuries, and after operations

• Improving skin health 

• Enhancing muscle recovery and physical performance

• Supporting better sleep and increased energy

• Helping with nerve pain and conditions like neuropathy or carpal tunnel syndrome

• Boosting brain health, mood, and immune system function

• Supporting gut and hormone health

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What Can I Expect During Treatment?

• The red light device is placed directly on your skin, either on the area that needs help or on the abdomen for a whole-body effect.

• The treatment is painless. Most people feel a gentle warmth or a relaxing sensation.

• You should avoid using creams or lotions on the area before treatment.

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How Many Sessions Will I Need?

A course of treatments is usually recommended. The exact number depends on your condition and will be discussed at your first appointment. If you have your own flexbeam device at home you will be given a treatment plan to manage in-between your clinic sessions.

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Can I Use It at Home?

Yes! You can rent from us or buy your own red light therapy devices for home use, making it convenient to treat yourself and your family.

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