Red and Infrared Light Therapy for Arthritis and Pain

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always consult with your dermatologist, general practitioner, or other qualified healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or therapy.

A natural, non-invasive solution for managing chronic joint pain and inflammation

Arthritis, affecting millions globally, causes debilitating pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Traditional treatments often rely on medications with side effects or invasive procedures.
However, red and near-infrared (NIR) light therapy has emerged as a scientifically backed, non-invasive alternative.

This therapy harnesses specific light wavelengths to stimulate cellular healing, and it has been clinically proven to reduce inflammation, accelerate tissue repair, and alleviate pain.
In this article, we explore how red and infrared light therapy, supported by peer-reviewed studies and practical insights, offers hope for arthritis sufferers and those battling chronic pain.

What Is Red and Infrared Light Therapy?

Red and NIR light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, involves exposing the skin to low-level wavelengths of light using LED devices. These wavelengths penetrate deep into tissues, stimulating cellular activity and promoting healing.

Key Mechanisms:

Mitochondrial stimulation: Light photons energise mitochondria, boosting production of ATP (cellular energy).
Reduced inflammation: Light modulates inflammatory cytokines, reducing swelling and pain.
Enhanced circulation: Improves blood flow, aiding tissue repair and nutrient delivery.
Cell regeneration: Encourages repair of damaged cartilage, muscle, and connective tissue.

Unlike painkillers, which mask symptoms, red light therapy addresses the root cause of pain by enhancing the body’s natural healing processes.

Proven Benefits for Osteoarthritis (OA)

Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, involves the gradual breakdown of cartilage in joints. Red light therapy has shown remarkable results in managing OA symptoms.

Clinical Highlights:

Pain Reduction: A 2016 study found that just 5–7 sessions of red light therapy significantly reduced pain and swelling in patients with Heberden’s and Bouchard’s OA.
Improved Mobility: In a 2012 trial, participants who combined red light therapy with exercise reported greater joint flexibility and range of motion.
Delaying Surgery: A 2015 Hong Kong study revealed that red light therapy, combined with physiotherapy, could delay the need for knee replacement surgery.
Long-Term Relief: A 2009 meta-analysis showed that red light therapy provided pain relief lasting up to 22 weeks in chronic neck pain patients.

Benefits at a Glance:

Reduces joint stiffness
Enhances flexibility
Minimises swelling
Improves quality of life

Potential for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

RA is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints. While fewer studies exist compared to OA, early findings are promising.

Research Insights:

A 2000 controlled trial found that red light therapy reduced RA pain by 70%, improved palm flexibility, and decreased morning stiffness.
A 2014 study showed that red light therapy reduced levels of IL-20, a key inflammatory cytokine in RA.
Animal studies from 2013 demonstrated that red light therapy could reduce inflammation in both early and late stages of RA.

Why It Matters:

RA is notoriously difficult to manage without long-term medication.
Red light therapy offers a drug-free, side-effect-free alternative or complement to existing treatments.

Red Light Therapy for General Pain Relief

Beyond arthritis, red and NIR light therapy has been shown to alleviate various types of musculoskeletal pain.

Notable Findings:

A 2006 study on athletes found that NIR therapy (830nm) halved recovery time and significantly reduced pain.
A 2013 study on sciatic pain in rats confirmed the effectiveness of both 660nm (red) and 980nm (infrared) wavelengths.
A Canadian study found that red light therapy improved function and reduced pain in patients with acute neck pain and cervical OA.

Common Conditions Treated:

Frozen shoulder
Low back pain
Sciatica
Post-surgical pain

Why Choose Red Light Therapy for Arthritis and Pain Management?

Red light therapy is gaining traction for good reason. It’s safe, non-invasive, and effective. Here’s why it’s worth considering.

Key Advantages:

No side effects: Unlike medications, it doesn’t cause gastrointestinal or cardiovascular issues.
Non-invasive: No needles, no surgery—just light.
Convenient: Home-use devices are now widely available.
Scientifically backed: Supported by decades of clinical research.

Ideal For:

Elderly patients seeking gentle pain relief
Individuals looking to reduce medication use
Athletes recovering from joint injuries
Anyone with chronic joint or muscle pain

Choosing the Right Red and Infrared Light Device for Arthritis and Pain

Choosing the right device to get the most out of red and infrared light therapy. At Infrared Lights NZ, we offer premium light therapy solutions designed to support arthritis and pain management.

With a focus on quality, ease of use, and real results, our range is trusted by professionals and individuals seeking natural, effective pain relief.

Discover how the right device can make a real difference in your daily comfort and mobility. Explore our collection today and take the first step toward a more comfortable, pain-free life.

LIGHTFORCE LED RED & INFRARED LIGHT THERAPY 40 x 20 CM FLEXIBLE PAD

A versatile and powerful therapy pad designed for full-body use, ideal for easing joint pain, muscle tension, and promoting faster recovery. Perfect for integrating into your daily wellness routine to support healing, circulation, and overall vitality.

Key Benefits:

Delivers clinically proven red (660nm) and near-infrared (850nm) wavelengths
Flexible design easily wraps around arms, legs, back, or shoulders
Supports pain relief, muscle recovery, and improved blood flow
Portable and pet-safe—can be powered by USB for use anywhere

LIGHTFORCE LED RED & INFRARED LIGHT THERAPY BELT/PAD

A flexible and highly versatile device, ideal for full-body use and daily wellness support. Perfect for easing joint and muscle discomfort, enhancing circulation, and promoting faster recovery—all from the comfort of your home.

Key Benefits:

Delivers a balanced blend of red (660nm) and near-infrared (850nm) light for deep tissue stimulation
Wrap-around design makes it easy to target areas like the back, knees, shoulders, or abdomen
Supports muscle relaxation, joint pain relief, and improved blood flow
Portable and USB-compatible, making it ideal for use at home, work, or on the go

LIGHTFORCE LED RED & INFRARED LIGHT THERAPY HAND MITT

The LightForce Hand Mitt is a simple, effective tool for managing hand and joint pain from the comfort of your home. Using therapeutic red and near-infrared light, it delivers safe, non-invasive relief and promotes healing at the cellular level.

Key Benefits:

Eases joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation in hands and wrists
Helps relieve symptoms of arthritis, carpal tunnel, tendonitis, and nerve pain
Boosts local blood circulation to accelerate healing
Stimulates cells and promotes tissue repair below the skin’s surface
Safe, UV-free therapy with no excess heat
Portable option when used with a compatible USB power bank
Easy to use—just slip on and relax

INFRARED HEAT THERAPY WRAP KNEE

This comfortable and effective wrap is ideal for soothing knee pain and supporting recovery from injuries and joint conditions. It is also perfect for relieving aches, improving circulation, and easing stiffness caused by arthritis, strains, or overuse.

Key Benefits:

Provides deep-penetrating infrared heat for targeted pain relief
Designed with carbon fibre for even heat distribution and fast warm-up
Versatile fit for knees, thighs, calves, elbows, and arms
Fully adjustable neoprene wrap with optional extension pads for larger sizes

LIGHTFORCE LED RED & INFRARED LIGHT THERAPY 54W BULB MAXI

A high-powered, targeted therapy bulb, ideal for focused treatments on the face or specific body areas. Perfect for enhancing skin health, supporting muscle recovery, and promoting overall wellness from the comfort of your home.

Key Benefits:

Emits a balanced combination of red (660nm) and near-infrared (850nm) wavelengths
Boosts collagen production and supports skin rejuvenation
Penetrates deep into tissues to ease joint pain and muscle fatigue
Edison screw fitting (E27/E26) makes it easy to use with standard light fixtures

LIGHTFORCE LED RED & INFRARED LIGHT THERAPY 25 x 13.5 CM FLEXIBLE PAD

A compact yet adaptable therapy pad, ideal for targeted relief across the body. Perfect for easing joint stiffness, soothing muscle tension, and supporting faster recovery—all in a flexible, easy-to-use design.

Key Benefits:

Emits a balanced combination of red (660nm) and near-infrared (850nm) light
Flexible pad design fits comfortably on areas like the back, arms, knees, or feet
Detachable cover allows for easy cleaning and long-term use
Promotes circulation, reduces inflammation, and supports natural healing

A Brighter Future for Arthritis and Pain Sufferers

Red and infrared light therapy offers a revolutionary approach to managing arthritis and chronic pain. Working at the cellular level relieves symptoms and promotes long-term healing and joint health.

Whether you’re dealing with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or general joint pain, red light therapy could be the natural, effective solution you’ve been searching for.

Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Ready to Experience the Benefits?

Take control of your arthritis management with our premium Red and Infrared Light Therapy devices. These devices are designed to help ease joint pain, reduce inflammation, and support everyday mobility.

We are proudly New Zealand-owned and operated, committed to providing genuine, honest, friendly service and the best Red Light Therapy technology.

Experience the healing power of light and rediscover the freedom of movement and comfort in your daily life.

Shop Our Range or Get in Touch, and take the first step towards a more comfortable life.