Red and near-infrared light are particularly good for joints and muscles, especially because they increase both cellular energy and collagen. [1-5].

INCREASED CELLULAR ENERGY

Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) is the cellular energy that powers our bodies, and is produced within the "power plants" of the cells known as mitochondria.

Scientists have determined these mitochondria “power plants” are in fact dual power plants, capable of using both chemical energy (glucose) and light energy to produce ATP. Specifically, scientists have observed that during the Electron Transport Chain (the chemical chain of events that creates ATP), the 4th and last step of the chain generates additional ATP when exposed to light energy (especially in the form of red an near-infrared light). As one can imagine, this “light energized” ATP provides additional energy to the body to pursue healthier joints and muscles.

Separately, red and near-infrared wavelengths of light break the bond between nitric oxide and cytochrome c oxidase (COX), which increases tissue oxygenation and microcirculation. This results in a healthier body able to recover faster from joint and muscle pain.

HEALTHIER COLLAGEN

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, comprising almost 30% of whole-body protein. Collagen is responsible for the elasticity of muscles, ligaments and skin, and the healthy lubrication of joints. Red and near-infrared light increases the production of collagen, which serves the health of joints and muscles.

REFERENCES

1. M.R. Hamblin, “Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation.” AIMS Biophys. 4(3), 2017.

2. P. H. Raven, et al. “How cells harvest energy.” Biology 10th ed. AP ed. pp. 122-146. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2014.

3. M. Emília de Abreu Chaves, et al. “Effects of low-power light therapy on wound healing: LASER x LED.” An Bras Dermatol. 9(4): 2014.

4. T.F. Elwakil, A. Elazzazi, H. Shokeir, “Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome By Low-level Laser Versus Open Carpal Tunnel Release.” Lasers in Medical Science, 22(4) 2007.

5. C.S. Enwemeka, et al. “The Efficacy of Low-Power Lasers In Tissue Repair And Pain Control: A Meta-Analysis Study. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. 22(4), 2004.