Harnessing the Power of Red Light Therapy for Arthritic Hands: A Gentle Approach to Relief

Living with arthritic hands can be a daily challenge, impacting not only our physical abilities but also our overall well-being. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. 

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that is characterised by progressive and uneven loss of articular cartilage, bone spurs, and hardening of the underlying bone, as well as other abnormalities. 

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease.  Both are more common in women. 

The current treatment offered is commonly prescription medication which may have side effects. The search for effective and gentle relief has led many individuals to explore alternative therapies such as red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, or PBM for short. In this blog, we'll delve into the potential benefits of red light therapy for arthritic hands, supported by studies that highlight its positive effects.

Understanding Red Light Therapy:

Red light therapy involves applying red and/or near-infrared light, stimulating cellular function, and promoting healing. It is a non-invasive and safe treatment option, making it an attractive choice for those seeking relief from arthritis symptoms.

How Red Light Therapy Works for Arthritic Hands:

Studies have shown that red light therapy can have a positive impact on arthritis by reducing inflammation, improving blood circulation, and promoting tissue repair. In the case of arthritic hands, these effects can contribute to pain reduction and enhanced joint function.

Reducing Inflammation:

Red light therapy helps to reduce inflammation and can help alleviate pain and stiffness associated with arthritic hands.

Improving Blood Circulation:

Proper blood flow is crucial for supplying oxygen and nutrients to affected joints.

Promoting Tissue Repair:

Red light promotes collagen production and accelerates the healing of damaged tissues in arthritis patients.

Incorporating red light therapy into your routine is a simple and accessible way to manage arthritic hand symptoms. Here are some practical tips:

Choose the Right Device:

Be sure to select a red light therapy device that emits wavelengths in the range of 630 to 850 nanometres, as this range has shown therapeutic effects in studies. We recommend the Photizo Pain Relief model which has Medical CE as the ideal choice for this application. The Photizo range of devices emits 633 nanometres (visible red) plus 850 nanometres (invisible near-infrared).

Follow a Consistent Routine:

Establish a regular routine for red light therapy sessions. Consistency is key to experiencing the full benefits over time.

Use the device correctly:

Hold the lens directly on the affected areas and apply a dose, and then repeat with sufficient doses to cover the entire area.  The Photizo devices come with a User-Guide plus we share lots of information on the website and there is even a Facebook forum where you can ask any questions.

Patience:

While some individuals may experience relief after a few sessions, it's essential to be patient. Results may vary, and long-term use can provide ongoing benefits.

Conclusion:

In the journey to find relief for arthritic hands, red light therapy is a gentle and promising option backed by scientific studies and years of real-life feedback from satisfied users. By incorporating this non-invasive approach into your routine, you may discover a newfound sense of comfort and improved functionality.

Studies:

Here are a few scientific studies and research links.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10531845/ The Mechanisms and Efficacy of Photobiomodulation Therapy for Arthritis: A Comprehensive Review (Renlong Zhand and Junle Qu) Sept 2023.

https://www.wjgnet.com/2220-6132/full/v10/i3/29.htm Photobiomodulation therapy for osteoarthritis: Mechanisms of action, (Fábio Pericinoto Giolo, Gabriel Silva Santos, Victor Fontes Pacheco, Stephany Cares Huber, Kaue Franco Malange, Bruno Lima Rodrigues, Fernanda Bassora, Tomas Mosaner, Gabriel Azzini, Lucas Leite Ribeiro, Carlos Amilcar Parada, José Fábio Santos Duarte Lana), 2022

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24286607/ Can osteoarthritis be treated with light?  (Michael R Hamblin) Oct 2013

Disclaimer:

The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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