Red Light Therapy Guidelines for Joint and Soft Tissue Injuries

Red Light Therapy Guidelines for Joint and Soft Tissue Injuries

Red Light Therapy Guidelines for Joint and Soft Tissue Injuries / Wavelength Selection and Scientific Approach
I. Basis for Infrared Wavelength Selection for Different Areas
Core Principle: Select wavelength based on tissue depth to ensure effective energy penetration to the target area.
II. Key Parameters and Usage Schemes
1. Wavelength and Penetration Depth
810-830nm: Penetration 5-10mm, suitable for superficial and mid-layer tissues (patella, wrist);
850nm: Penetration 10-15mm, targeting deep structures (meniscus, Achilles tendon).
2. Power Density and Duration
Acute Injury (Swelling Phase):
Power Density: 20-50mW/cm² (low power for anti-inflammatory);
Duration: 10 minutes per session, once daily to avoid thermal effects that increase swelling.
Chronic Injury/Repair Phase:
Power Density: 50-100mW/cm² (medical grade);
Duration: 15-20 minutes per session, every other day to promote tissue regeneration. 3. Irradiation Techniques
Knee Joint:
Patella: Flex the knee 30° and irradiate directly on the patellar surface.
Meniscus: Extend the leg and aim the irradiator at the joint space (alternate between medial and lateral directions).
Ankle/Achilles Tendon:
Dorcisflex the foot to ensure that the irradiation penetrates deep into the Achilles tendon.
The medial and lateral ankle ligaments are covered in separate zones.
Wrist:
With the palm facing up, irradiate the transverse wrist crease (focused on tenosynovitis).
Radial styloid process (De Quervain’s tenosynovitis).
III. Combined Therapy Enhancement Plan
Alternating Hot and Cold Therapy:
Acute Phase: Apply ice for 10 minutes before irradiation (reduces exudation).
Chronic Phase: Apply heat after irradiation (stimulates metabolism).
Sports Rehabilitation:
Perform joint stabilization exercises (e.g., wall squats, ankle pumps with elastic bands) after irradiation.
Avoid irradiation immediately after high-intensity exercise (apply cold compresses first).
Topical Medication Penetration:
Apply NSAID gel (e.g., diclofenac) before irradiation to enhance the anti-inflammatory effect.
Combined with hyaluronic acid gel (lubricates the joint). IV. Precautions and Contraindications
Contraindications:
Acute traumatic bleeding, infectious arthritis, and malignant tumors;
Metal implants (such as knee replacements) require medical evaluation.
Safety of Use:
Avoid direct viewing of the light source and wear goggles;
Those with sensitive skin should test for local reactions (starting at 5 minutes).
Periodic Management:
Use continuously for ≤ 3 months, with a 1-2 week interval before renewing the treatment.
If results stagnate, combine with shock wave or ultrasound therapy.
✨ Summary:
810-850nm infrared light is the golden wavelength for joint and soft tissue repair, and its penetration depth determines its effectiveness.
Low power for anti-inflammatory treatment in the acute phase, high power for regeneration in the chronic phase.
Combining hot and cold therapy with rehabilitation training yields twice the results with half the effort!