How Red Light Therapy at Home Aids in Relieving Tendinopathy

Tendinopathy affects millions of people, including athletes, office workers, and those simply going about their daily lives. It occurs when tendons become inflamed or damaged, resulting in persistent pain, limited mobility, and a lower quality of life. While there are various therapies for tendinopathy, including rest, anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy, they can take time to produce relief. 

Fortunately, red light therapy (RLT) at home exists as a promising alternative for treating a variety of musculoskeletal issues - including symptoms that overlap with tendinopathy. But is this home-based treatment as effective as traditional methods? Find out with the ROJO Red Light Therapy AUS team in this article! 

What is RLT?

RLT involves applying low-level wavelengths of red or near-infrared (NIR) light to the skin. The light penetrates the skin, targeting tissues and cells beneath the surface. The mechanism behind this treatment is that red light can stimulate cellular activity, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.

With the increasing availability of consumer-friendly devices, RLT is commonly used in wellness clinics, sports recovery centres, and even at home. The process is noninvasive, painless, and generally considered safe, making it an attractive option for those looking for alternative therapies for various conditions, including tendinopathy.

Understanding tendinopathy

Tendinopathy is a broad term that encompasses a variety of tendon injuries, from inflammation (tendinitis) to chronic degeneration (tendinosis). These injuries are frequently caused by overuse or repetitive strain, leading to small tears in the tendons. Minor injuries can build over time, resulting in discomfort, stiffness, and swelling.

One of the primary obstacles in treating tendinopathy is that tendons have a limited blood supply, which hinders the healing process. This makes recuperation challenging, especially when relying exclusively on standard treatments such as rest and physical therapy, which may not provide instant relief. As a result, patients frequently express frustration as they deal with ongoing discomfort and the inability to do physical activities.

How RLT may help with tendinopathy

Several studies have pointed to the effectiveness of RLT in treating tendon injuries. A comprehensive review shows that low-level photobiomodulation (PBM), which includes red and NIR light, can improve tendon healing and alleviate pain. Let's break down some of the mechanisms behind these effects:

1. Enhanced cellular energy (ATP Production): RLT stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is essential for energy transfer within cells. Higher ATP levels can help cells repair themselves faster. This is particularly relevant for tendons, which are slow to regenerate under normal circumstances.
2. Collagen production: Collagen is a protein that plays a critical role in the structure of tendons. Tendon injuries are frequently associated with collagen fibre degradation, so enhancing collagen production can be beneficial. RLT stimulates fibroblasts—collagen-producing cells—which helps to speed up the regeneration of injured tendons.
3. Reduction of inflammation: Inflammation is a hallmark of tendinopathy, especially in its early stages. RLT has been shown to reduce inflammation by modulating inflammatory pathways in the body. By decreasing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing the release of anti-inflammatory proteins, RLT may help reduce the pain and swelling associated with tendinopathy.
4. Improved circulation: RLT can also help increase blood flow to the damaged area, which is necessary for tendon repair. Better circulation gets more oxygen and nutrients to the wounded tissue, which helps to speed up the healing process.

Can RLT treat tendinopathy?

Existing studies show low-to-moderate quality evidence that low-intensity red and NIR PBM is an effective standalone treatment for tendinopathy. However, it is often combined with conventional therapy approaches to provide speedy relief and pain control. Further research in this area will help us better understand its effects on the health of those with tendinopathy. 

Integrating RLT into your recovery plan

Here are some things to consider if you plan to use red light therapy at home to manage tendinopathy:

• Consult a professional: Before starting any new treatment, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider who is experienced in RLT. They can guide you on the appropriate wavelengths and dosage for your condition.
• Combined with other therapies: RLT can aid in relieving tendinopathy on its own, but it works best when combined with other treatments like physical therapy and proper rest. A well-rounded approach to tendon rehabilitation will yield the best results.
• Consistency is key: Like any therapy, RLT requires consistent use to see lasting results. Be patient and follow the recommended treatment protocol for optimal outcomes.

If you're struggling with tendinopathy, red light therapy at home might be the solution you've been searching for. At Rojo Light Therapy AUS, we offer high-quality RLT devices designed to help you recover faster and get back to doing the things you love. Contact us and start your journey to recovery today!