Key takeaways
- Red light therapy with a wavelength of 660 nanometers can be an effective option for wrist pain especially since it has a high penetrating power.
- Red light therapy work for wrist pain by stimulating cellular repair, improving circulation and alleviating inflammation.
- While red light therapy for wrist pain is considered as safe, it may be linked to minor side effects like skin irritation, eye damage, temporary discomfort, dry skin and headache or fatigue.
- Experts advise against using red light therapy if you have photosensitizing medical conditions, such as lupus, or if you are taking photosensitizing medications like tetracycline, doxycycline, hydrochlorothiazide, or naproxen. It is also not recommended to use red light therapy on open wounds.
Does red light therapy work on wrist pain?
Yes, red light therapy, utilizing 660nm red lights and 880nm near infrared lights, can be effective for alleviating wrist pain. The 660nm red lights penetrate deeply into the skin layers, stimulating cellular repair and improving circulation. This enhanced blood flow can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the wrist area. Meanwhile, 880nm near infrared lights penetrate even deeper into joints and muscles, providing relief by targeting the underlying causes of pain. These wavelengths of light therapy work synergistically to alleviate discomfort and improve overall wrist function, making it a promising treatment option for those suffering from wrist pain.
Benefits of red light therapy for wrist pain
Red light therapy offers several benefits for managing wrist pain:
- Pain Relief: Red light therapy can significantly reduce wrist pain by targeting the underlying causes such as inflammation and muscle tension.
- Enhanced Healing: The 660nm red light stimulates cellular repair, promoting faster healing of damaged tissues in the wrist.
- Improved Circulation: Increased blood flow from red light therapy helps deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to the affected area, facilitating recovery.
- Reduced Inflammation: By penetrating deep into the skin and tissues, red light therapy can reduce inflammation, a common source of wrist pain.
- Increased Mobility: Regular use of red light therapy can improve joint and muscle flexibility, helping to restore wrist function and reduce stiffness.
How to use red light therapy for wrist pain
Using red light therapy for wrist pain is very straight forward as long as you can adhere to instructions. Here are the simple steps involved.
- Select the Right Device: Choose a red light therapy device that emits both 660nm red light and 880nm near-infrared light. Ensure it’s designed for treating localized areas like the wrist. You can read our article on how to choose the right red light therapy device.
- Clean the Affected Wrist Area: Wash and dry your wrist before starting the therapy to ensure optimal light penetration.
- Position the Device: Place the red light therapy device directly over the painful area of your wrist. Maintain a close distance, usually within a few inches, as recommended by the device manufacturer.
- Set the Duration: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the recommended treatment duration. Typically, sessions last between 10-20 minutes.
- Monitor Progress: Keep track of your wrist pain and overall improvement. Adjust the frequency and duration of therapy based on your progress and comfort level.
Side effects of red light therapy for wrist pain
Red light therapy is generally considered safe, but some potential side effects may occur, particularly if the therapy is not used correctly. Here are some possible side effects of red light therapy for wrist pain:
- Skin Irritation: Prolonged exposure or using the device too close to the skin can cause redness, irritation, or a burning sensation.
- Eye Damage: Direct exposure to the eyes can be harmful, so it’s important to avoid looking directly at the light and to use appropriate eye protection if recommended by the device manufacturer.
- Temporary Discomfort: Some individuals might experience a temporary increase in discomfort or pain as the body begins to heal and respond to the therapy.
- Dry Skin: Extended use may lead to dry skin in the treated area. Moisturizing the skin before and after treatment can help alleviate this issue.
- Headache or Fatigue: Rarely, some users report headaches or fatigue after treatment, which may be due to overexposure.
- Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the materials in the device or the light itself.
Frequently asked questions
Can You Use Red Light Therapy on Hands?
Yes, you can use red light therapy on your hands. Devices like red light therapy wands are specifically designed to treat small, localized areas. This makes them ideal for targeting the back of the hands, individual knees, or specific spots on the face. Red light therapy can help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in these areas.
Is Red Light Therapy Good for Joint Pain?
Red light therapy is highly effective for treating joint pain. One of its primary benefits is its ability to reduce chronic inflammation, which is a common cause of joint and muscle pain. By decreasing inflammation, red light therapy can help ease discomfort and improve joint function, making it a valuable treatment option for those suffering from chronic pain conditions.
Where Not to Use Red Light Therapy
While red light therapy is beneficial for many conditions, there are certain situations where it should be avoided. Experts advise against using red light therapy if you have photosensitizing medical conditions, such as lupus, or if you are taking photosensitizing medications like tetracycline, doxycycline, hydrochlorothiazide, or naproxen. Additionally, avoid using red light therapy on open wounds or lesions to prevent potential complications. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.
