What is Light Therapy?

Light Therapy (photobiomodulation) is a technique utilizing light waves to achieve therapeutic effects. Typically, wave lengths near the red and infrared spectrum are used due to their profound effect on mitochondria.

How does this happen mechanically? A cell’s mitochondria have photoreceptors (in the form of the cytochrome-C-oxidase enzyme), where red and near infrared waves are being absorbed upon exposure. This leads to increased oxygenation and in turn to increased production of energy (synthesis of ATP). In turn, light-sensitive ion channels are activated within the cell, enhancing the cell’s internal processes.

What conditions could Light Therapy be used for?

Photobiomodulation therapy has been used for, among others:

• Lower inflammation in fibromyalgia
• Anti-ageing (enhancing collagen and elastin synthesis)
• Speeding healing of wounds
• Enhancing physical performance and muscle recovery
• Enhancing fat loss
• Combating chronic fatigue
• Offsetting Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism

Please contact us to discuss if this treatment would be suitable in your personal circumstances.

Does Light Therapy have any other benefits?

Certain recent studies demonstrate indicate that photobiomodulation can have positive effects for the health of the brain. In particular, it may spurr neurogenesis (renewal of brain cells), strengthen synapses, increase the production of BDNF and thus help prevent cognitive decline. As mentioned above, Light Therapy can have anti-oxidating and vitalising effects. Studies also demonstrate an increased level of antioxidants in the cell when exposed to red or near infrared light.

Observations suggest a transformation of coenzyme CoQ-10 from its inactive (ubiquinone) to its active (ubiquinol) form (CoQ-10 is very important in the cell’s energy production and many diseases can cause its deficiency).

It was initially believed that lasers were needed for photobiomodulation to be efficient. A growing body of research now agrees that any source of light (e.g. LED) generating red and near infrared wavelengths will have a similar effects in the mitochondria, and thus similar therapeutic effects.