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Red Light Therapy and Nerve Wellness: What the Research Is Exploring
Red and Near-Infrared Light: What Research Is Exploring About Nerve Wellness
Red and near-infrared light have been studied in a growing field of research known as photobiomodulation. Researchers continue to investigate how different wavelengths of light interact with cells and tissues and how these interactions may relate to a variety of wellness and biological processes.
Nerve-related research is one area of scientific interest. However, it is important to distinguish emerging research from the intended use of consumer wellness products. Red Nova Lights products are designed for general wellness use and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent neuropathy or any other medical condition.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a medical term describing conditions involving damaged or dysfunctional nerves. Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, weakness, or other changes in sensation.
Neuropathy can have many different causes, including diabetes, certain medications or medical treatments, injuries, nutritional deficiencies, and other health conditions. Anyone experiencing persistent numbness, tingling, pain, weakness, or unexplained changes in sensation should discuss those symptoms with a qualified healthcare professional.
Why Are Red and Near-Infrared Light Being Studied?
Photobiomodulation research explores how specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light interact with biological tissue. Researchers have investigated possible effects involving cellular activity, mitochondrial processes, circulation, and other biological mechanisms.
Research involving nerves and the nervous system is ongoing. Findings from laboratory studies, clinical research, or medical photobiomodulation equipment should not automatically be interpreted as evidence that a consumer red light device can treat neuropathy or regenerate damaged nerves.
Red Light vs. Near-Infrared Light
Red and near-infrared wavelengths have different optical characteristics when they interact with tissue.
- Red light: Visible red wavelengths such as 630nm and 660nm are commonly used in light-based skincare and general wellness applications.
- Near-infrared light: Wavelengths such as 810nm, 830nm, 850nm, 960nm, and 1060nm are outside the visible spectrum and are commonly studied in photobiomodulation research.
Different Red Nova Lights products use different wavelength combinations. Select models provide multiple red and near-infrared wavelengths that can be used individually or together depending on the capabilities of the device.
What Does the Research Tell Us?
Scientific literature has explored photobiomodulation in many areas, including cellular function, exercise, skin appearance, circulation, the nervous system, and general wellness.
Research involving nerve function is particularly interesting, but results vary considerably depending on the wavelength, light intensity, exposure time, treatment protocol, equipment, condition being studied, and study population.
More research is needed to determine which applications may ultimately prove useful in specific medical settings. Research involving photobiomodulation should therefore be viewed as an evolving area of science rather than proof that consumer red light products treat neurological conditions.
Using Red and Near-Infrared Light as Part of a Wellness Routine
Many people use red and near-infrared light as part of a broader personal wellness routine. Sessions may be incorporated alongside exercise, relaxation, skincare, or other self-care activities.
When using a Red Nova Lights device, follow the instructions provided with your specific product regarding recommended distance, session duration, intensity, and eye protection. Product specifications vary, so the instructions for your particular device should take priority over general recommendations found online.
Safety Considerations
- Follow the operating and safety instructions included with your device.
- Use appropriate eye protection when recommended for your device.
- Do not exceed recommended exposure times in an attempt to achieve faster results.
- Consult a healthcare professional before use if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or nursing, or take medications that may increase sensitivity to light.
- Do not use a consumer wellness device as a substitute for evaluation or treatment of persistent pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or other neurological symptoms.
Choosing a Red and Near-Infrared Light Device
When comparing devices, consider factors such as wavelength configuration, light output, coverage area, controls, mounting options, and the size of the area you want to illuminate.
Red Nova Lights offers devices ranging from compact targeted-use models to larger panels designed for broader coverage. Depending on the model, available wavelengths include 630nm, 660nm, 810nm, 830nm, 850nm, 960nm, and 1060nm.
The Bottom Line
Research into photobiomodulation and the nervous system is an interesting and developing area of science. Red and near-infrared wavelengths continue to be investigated for their interactions with cells and tissues, but research findings should not be interpreted as proof that consumer red light products can treat neuropathy or regenerate damaged nerves.
Red Nova Lights products are designed to provide convenient red and near-infrared light for general wellness routines.
Interested in incorporating red and near-infrared light into your routine? Explore our collection to compare wavelengths, sizes, controls, and coverage options.
Disclaimer: Red Nova Lights products are intended for general wellness use only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Red Nova Lights products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent neuropathy or any other disease or medical condition. Information on this page is provided for general educational purposes and is not medical advice.