Red Light Therapy and Low Back pain- Is it worth the Hype?
Have you come across red light therapy discussions while watching the news or scrolling through social media? It’s been a trending topic lately, and even as physical therapists, we get asked about it frequently. Does red light therapy make us look younger? Can it heal muscles faster? Does it help reduce pain?
These are valid questions, and many people are curious about the potential benefits of red light therapy. So, does it live up to the hype?
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), uses low-level red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular processes. The idea behind it is that the light penetrates the skin and promotes healing by increasing blood circulation, stimulating collagen production, reducing inflammation, and enhancing cellular function.
While red light therapy is widely promoted for various health benefits, it’s important to take a closer look at the scientific evidence to determine whether it’s truly effective.
The Research Behind Red Light Therapy
A 2021 study published in The Journal of the International Association for the Study of Pain aimed to investigate the effects of PBMT on chronic low back pain (LBP). This study, conducted in an outpatient orthopedic clinic in Brazil, involved 148 patients who were divided into two groups: one receiving active PBMT and the other receiving a placebo treatment.
The participants underwent 12 treatment sessions over 4 weeks, with treatments administered three times a week. Along with the treatments, both groups received education on managing low back pain. The researchers assessed pain intensity and disability at several intervals: baseline, 4 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year.
Study Results: No Significant Difference
The results of the study were clear: there was no significant difference between the active PBMT group and the placebo group in terms of pain intensity or disability. In other words, PBMT was no more effective than a placebo at reducing pain or improving functionality in individuals with chronic low back pain.
Conclusion
The results of this study showed no clinical significance between groups in terms of intensity of pain and disability. PBMT was no better than placebo at reducing intensity or pain and disability in those with LBP.
As with any treatment, it’s crucial to stay informed, critically evaluate the evidence, and consult with healthcare professionals before deciding whether red light therapy is right for you.
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