Red Light Therapy for Joint Pain: When Your Knees Start Making Weird Noises
Did your knee make a strange clicking sound when you stood up? Maybe your knees have started making noises that sound suspiciously like bubble wrap. Or perhaps your shoulders, hips or other joints simply do not feel as comfortable as they used to. Joint discomfort and stiffness can make everyday activities surprisingly frustrating. If you are looking for a gentle, non-invasive way to support your body, red light therapy for joint pain may be worth exploring.
Why Do Our Joints Become Stiff or Uncomfortable?
There is not one single reason for joint discomfort. It can be associated with a variety of factors including ageing, exercise, repetitive movement, previous injuries, overuse, muscle tension, inflammation, arthritis and general wear and tear. Sometimes it is simply because you have spent the last six months sitting at a desk and then decided to play an enthusiastic game of five-a-side football. Your joints may have questions.
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light. The light interacts with cells and may support cellular energy production, circulation and the body's natural repair processes. Unlike treatments involving needles or surgery, red light therapy is non-invasive - you simply relax while the treatment is delivered.
How Could Red Light Therapy Support Joint Comfort?
It May Support the Body's Natural Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can contribute to discomfort and stiffness. Red light therapy is being studied for its potential influence on inflammatory processes and may help support the body's natural response.
It May Support Circulation
Healthy circulation is important for delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues and transporting waste products away. Supporting healthy circulation may contribute to normal tissue recovery.
It May Support Tissue Repair
Joints involve muscles, tendons, ligaments and other tissues that all work together to help you move. Red light therapy may support cellular processes involved in maintaining and repairing these tissues.
It May Help With Feelings of Stiffness
Anyone who has woken up with a stiff joint knows how annoying it can be. Some people report improved comfort following red light therapy treatments. Results vary, but supporting comfort and mobility is one of the reasons people incorporate the treatment into their wellness routine.
Which Joints Can Be Treated?
- Knees
- Shoulders
- Elbows
- Hips
- Wrists
- Ankles
- Other areas experiencing muscle or joint discomfort
Is Red Light Therapy a Treatment for Arthritis?
Red light therapy may be used as a complementary wellness option for people experiencing discomfort associated with arthritis. However, arthritis is a medical condition with many different forms and causes. Red light therapy should not replace diagnosis, medication or treatment recommended by your healthcare professional.
If you have severe joint pain, sudden swelling, significant injury, loss of movement, persistent or worsening symptoms or unexplained pain, seek professional medical advice. Red light therapy is there to complement appropriate care, not replace it.
What Else Can You Do for Your Joints?
Keep Moving
Gentle movement can help prevent stiffness.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
For weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips, maintaining a healthy weight may reduce physical stress on the joints.
Strengthen Supporting Muscles
Strong muscles can help support your joints during movement.
Do Not Ignore Recovery
If your body is constantly sore, it may be time to reassess your training routine. More is not always better.