inflammation;red light therapy

← Back to The TANK Journal Red Light Therapy  ·  Recovery Red Light Therapy for Inflammation: When Your Body Decides to Be Dramatic By TANK Studio August 2026 7 min read Inflammation isn’t always the villain. In fact, your body actually needs inflammation – it’s an essential part of the natural healing process. However, the trouble starts when inflammation sticks around longer than it’s welcome. Persistent inflammation can be associated with pain, stiffness and discomfort, which is why so many people are now exploring red light therapy for inflammation as a complementary wellness treatment. What Is Inflammation? Acute Inflammation This is the short-term response you may notice after an injury – think redness, swelling, warmth, pain and temporary stiffness. In other words, it’s basically your body’s emergency response team showing up to deal with a problem. Once the job is done, it should clear up on its own. Chronic Inflammation Unlike acute inflammation, chronic inflammation can last much longer and may be associated with conditions such as arthritis and ongoing muscle or joint discomfort. As a result, this is when things can become a little more complicated – and when people often start looking for additional support. What Is Red Light Therapy? Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, uses red and near-infrared wavelengths of light to interact with your cells. Specifically, the goal is to support cellular energy production and the body’s natural repair and recovery processes. Your mitochondria – often called the “powerhouses” of the cell – are central to producing the energy cells need to function. In essence, red light therapy gives those cells a little extra encouragement. How Could Red Light Therapy Help Inflammation? 1. It May Support Cellular Repair First and foremost, your cells need energy to repair and maintain tissues. As a result, red light therapy may support ATP production, helping to provide that energy for normal cellular processes. 2. It May Help Regulate Inflammatory Responses Furthermore, research suggests photobiomodulation may influence inflammatory processes within the body, potentially helping to reduce discomfort and support recovery over time. 3. It May Support Circulation Good circulation helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues and transport waste products away. Moreover, your circulatory system is already working overtime when inflammation is present, so giving it some support is never a bad idea. 4. It May Support Tissue Recovery In addition to improving circulation, red light therapy may support processes involved in tissue repair and regeneration, including collagen production – which is particularly useful when recovering from injury. 5. It May Help With Pain Inflammation and pain often travel together like an unwanted two-for-one special. Therefore, by potentially helping to support the body’s inflammatory response, red light therapy may also help improve comfort and mobility as part of a broader wellness routine. What Can Red Light Therapy for Inflammation Be Used For? Red light therapy may be a useful complementary treatment for people experiencing inflammation associated with: Arthritis Back and neck pain Shoulder and knee pain Sports injuries Muscle strains Tendon injuries Plantar fasciitis Post-workout soreness General stiffness However, if you are experiencing severe or persistent symptoms, it is important to seek professional medical advice first. Red light therapy is a complementary treatment, not a replacement for proper medical diagnosis or prescribed care. What Happens at Tank Studio? At Tank Studio, a red light therapy session is designed to be simple and relaxing. You arrive, get comfortable and relax while the red light does its work. Sessions last approximately 20 minutes and are non-invasive, drug-free and generally require no downtime afterwards – so you can get on with your day without any recovery period. Frequently Asked Questions How quickly can red light therapy help inflammation? Results vary from person to person. Some people notice changes after several sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing treatment over a longer period. Can red light therapy help arthritis inflammation? It may help support comfort and mobility associated with inflammation. However, it should always be used alongside appropriate medical care recommended by your healthcare provider. Can I stop taking anti-inflammatory medication if I try red light therapy? No. You should never stop prescribed medication without first speaking to your healthcare provider. Red light therapy is a complementary wellness option, not a substitute for medical treatment. Does red light therapy for inflammation hurt? Not at all. Most people find red light therapy comfortable and relaxing throughout the session. Book a Session Managing inflammation? Our red light therapy sessions are designed to support your body’s natural healing process. Book Now Session Pricing Red Light TherapyR300 Restore PackageR600 Recharge PackageR3 050 Reignite PackageR4 730 Sessions max 20 min. Consult your healthcare provider for persistent inflammation. Get in Touch Questions about red light therapy for your condition? We are happy to help. +27 81 814 2255 hello@tankstudio.co.za Ready when you are Let your bodyheal naturally. Book Your Session