Red Light Therapy

picture of a sad woman needing therapy

Pain Relief & Wellness

Red Light Therapy: A Science-Based Overview

At Revive Wellness Utah, we are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based information about Red Light Therapy (RLT, also known as Low-Level Laser Therapy or Photobiomodulation). While emerging research suggests potential benefits, the FDA has not approved RLT for the treatment or diagnosis of specific medical conditions, including those mentioned in our video(e.g., brain injuries, symptoms of PTSD, symptoms of fibromyalgia).

What Does the Research Say?

Red Light Therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular function. Current studies show promise in certain areas, but clinical evidence remains limited or preliminary for many conditions. Here’s what peer-reviewed science indicates that it can help give relief:

  • Pain Management & Inflammation:
  • Wound Healing & Tissue Repair:
  • Neurological Conditions (symptoms of PTSD, Brain Injuries):
  • Herniated Discs & Back Pain:
  • Limited studies suggest RLT may reduce pain in chronic back conditions (PLOS ONE, 2017), but it is not a cure for structural issues like herniated discs.
  • Preclinical studies (animal models) show RLT may improve brain function after injury (Neurophotonics, 2016), but human clinical data is insufficient to confirm therapeutic effects.
  • No FDA-approved protocols exist for symptoms of PTSD or migraines, though some patients report symptom relief of symptoms.
  • RLT may support recovery in soft tissue injuries and fractures by enhancing cellular energy (ATP) production (Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 2018).
  • Some studies suggest RLT may help reduce pain and inflammation in conditions like osteoarthritis (Journal of Pain Research, 2020) and musculoskeletal injuries (Lasers in Medical Science, 2019).
  • Symptoms of Fibromyalgia: A 2017 pilot study noted potential pain reduction (Rheumatology International), but larger trials are needed.

Our Commitment to Compliance

To align with FDA and FTC guidelines, we clarify:

  • Red Light Therapy is not FDA-approved to treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition, including those mentioned in our video.
  • Individual results may vary. RLT should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.
  • Consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new therapy, especially for chronic or severe health issues.
  • Some patients report improved well-being when used alongside conventional care.
  • May support cellular recovery and comfort as part of a wellness plan.

For further reading, we direct you to peer-reviewed studies on PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) or NIH’s National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (https://www.nccih.nih.gov/).