Red Light Therapy as a Promising Treatment for Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Living with fibromyalgia can be an overwhelming and frustrating experience. As someone who was recently diagnosed with this chronic pain condition, I understand the challenges that come with it far too well...along with all of the missed events, canceled plans, and just the overall feeling of failure and depression when your body doesn't respond or work the way it used to.

Fibromyalgia is a complex and often debilitating condition characterized by chronic pain, fatigue, and tender points throughout the body. Even the most basic tasks, like peeling a potato or sweeping the front porch can cause paralyzing pain for days! Individuals living with fibromyalgia often face challenges in finding effective treatments that alleviate their symptoms. I know I did! Traditional approaches just weren't effective at keeping my symptoms at bay and allowing me to experience life.

So I went on the hunt for an alternative approach and discovered red light therapy. And by golly if it didn't actually work! I started Light Therapy Resource after my life changing results, but had no idea for almost a year what what causing my issues. I just knew red light therapy made me feel better and with my recent diagnosis, it all makes sense now! So in this blog post, we will explore the symptoms and challenges associated with fibromyalgia, delve into the science behind red light therapy, and discuss how multiple studies and research have contributed to its growing popularity of using red light therapy for treating fibromyalgia.

Understanding Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown, making it challenging to find effective treatments. Traditional approaches often involve a combination of medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. However, these treatments may not provide sufficient relief for all individuals, such as me, leading to a search for alternative therapies like red light therapy.

The Science behind Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy, also known as low-level light therapy or Photobiomodulation (PBM) utilizes specific wavelengths of light, typically red and near-infrared (NIR) light to penetrate the skin and target the mitochondria to stimulate cellular activity. The light energy absorbed by the cells promotes mitochondrial function, increases circulation, enhances tissue repair and reduces inflammation, leading to a range of biological benefits. Simply put, red light therapy provides your cells with the right conditions for them to function more efficiently. In other words, it helps your body treat itself. 

Red Light Therapy for Fibromyalgia
Multiple studies and research efforts have shown promising results regarding the use of red light therapy as a treatment for fibromyalgia. Here are some key findings:

1. Pain Management: Red light therapy has demonstrated its potential in reducing pain associated with fibromyalgia. A study published in the Journal of Novel Physiotherapies in 2018 found that red light therapy significantly reduced pain levels and improved quality of life in fibromyalgia patients and another study published in the National Library of Medicine in 2022 found that whole body PBM resulted in a significant reduction in pain and improved overall quality of life after receiving only 4 weeks of treatment! 

2. Sleep Improvement: One of the symptoms of fibromyalgia is insomnia. Aside from lowering one’s quality of life, sleep deprivation hinders the body from spending enough time in a “rest and digest” state, during which the parasympathetic nervous system relaxes the body and promotes internal healing. Red light therapy has shown promise in improving sleep quality. A 2019 study published by the National Library of Medicine saw a reduction in sleep inertia (sleepiness) when exposed to red light therapy. Check out our blog to read more about how red light therapy can help improve sleep!

3. Fatigue Reduction: Chronic fatigue is a hallmark symptom of fibromyalgia. Research has suggested that red light therapy may help alleviate fatigue in fibromyalgia patients. A study published in 202 in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science demonstrated that red light therapy improved fatigue scores and physical performance in participants. A study published in the National Library of Medicine in 2023 observed positive changes in fatigue symptoms after exposure to red light therapy.

4. Psychological Well-being: Fibromyalgia can have a significant impact on psychological well-being. Red light therapy has been found to positively influence mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. A study published in the journal Rheumatology International in 2021 reported improvements in psychological symptoms with red light therapy in fibromyalgia patients and a 2020 study published in PubMed shows red light therapy as a promising tool in the management of psychological disorders.

Conclusion
Fibromyalgia poses numerous challenges for those living with the condition and finding effective treatments can be a frustrating journey. However, red light therapy shows promising results as a treatment for fibromyalgia, providing pain relief and enhancing the quality of life for many patients. Multiple studies and research have demonstrated its potential in reducing pain, improving sleep quality, alleviating fatigue, and enhancing psychological well-being in fibromyalgia patients. So what are you waiting for? Give red light therapy a try and experience the life changing benefits for yourself! We offer a selection of high quality, affordable light therapy devices, along with exclusive access to our customer portal, featuring dosage calculators, links to science and research, Photopuncture Charts using our Handheld Torch to target specific energy meridians on the body to address various issues and more! Click here to shop now and grab the LED Facial Wand for free with any purchase while supplies last! Simply add the wand to your cart and enter discount code FREEWAND at checkout!