Red Light Therapy for Spasticity Management
Spasticity is an ailment that interferes with the movement of the muscles, causing stiffness, rigidity, spasmodic contractions, and limited mobility. It renders it hard to control the muscles, especially the extensor muscles of the lower limbs. Most people receiving traditional therapies find little relief and undesirable side effects. Here, red light therapy is a hope in a barren field. This drug-free, non-invasive method aids the relaxation of the muscles and boosts mobility. Here is how red light therapy is achieved, the scientific backing for it being effective, and how it can be included in spasticity management in the best practices.
Table of Contents
Understanding Spasticity: Causes and Impact on Mobility
Spasticity is a neurological condition characterized by stiffness of the muscles, involuntary muscle contractions, and impaired movement. This condition occurs when there is an injury to the brain and spinal cord, which negatively impacts normal nerve-muscle communication. This type of painful condition is usually seen in patients with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord injury. The ongoing tightness of muscles results in pain, joint deformity, and a compromised quality of life.
Challenges with Traditional Spasticity Treatments
Treating spasticity with conventional medications takes time and has side effects. Muscle relaxants reduce spasticity but only treat the symptoms. Surgical procedures like tendon releases or drug pumps that are implanted are risky and may not always yield permanent relief. Physical therapy may benefit, but this improvement is sluggish. Owing to such constraints, a lot of patients resort to alternative therapies like using one of the best red light therapy devices for the treatment of spasticity.
How Red Light Therapy Helps Relieve Muscle Stiffness and Tension
The Science Behind Red Light Therapy for Neuromuscular Health
Red light therapy employs red and near-infrared light to penetrate deep into the body, stimulating natural healing processes that enhance movement and aid nerve recovery. It does this by increasing energy production within cells and relaxing and repairing muscles.
Red light therapy also tightens the link between nerves and muscles through increased blood flow, diminished swelling, and reduced cell stress. This aids in the smooth transmission of nerve impulses from the brain to muscles, making it easier to move. At the cellular level, red light therapy offers a natural, medication-free method to treat spasticity and enhance muscle function.
Does Red Light Therapy Work for Spasticity? What Research Says
Scientific research suggests this therapy is a non-medication, safe way to increase mobility, control involuntary spasms, and calm muscles. Studies have established that specific red and near-infrared light reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, improves circulation, and stimulates nerve healing. All of these help relax muscles, reduce pain, and improve movement.
Clinical Studies on Red Light Therapy for Spasticity Patients
Study 1: Enhancing Muscle Function with 808 nm Photobiomodulation Therapy
This research aimed to assess the impact of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) with an 808 nm laser on the spasticity of the biceps in chronic hemiparetic stroke patients. Following 10 PBMT sessions, the range of motion in the elbow also improved considerably. The conclusion was that light therapy at 808nm is an avenue to enhance movement, strength, and nerve conduction in stroke survivors.
Study 2: Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) at 830 nm for Reducing CVA-Related Spasticity
This study assessed the effects of LLLT at 830 nm on spasticity in patients with cerebrovascular accident (CVA). There was improvement in spasticity and voluntary movement in 11 out of 15 patients after one week of treatment, suggesting LLLT at 830 nm has the potential to alleviate CVA-related spasticity.
Choosing the Right Red Light Therapy Device for Spasticity Relief
Key Features to Look for in an Effective Device
If you are buying red light therapy equipment, make sure that you look for the following features. It should be able to produce certain wavelengths of red and near-infrared light, e.g., 660 nm for red light and 830 nm for near-infrared light, which have been clinically tested. Besides, it must have adjustable intensity and be hands-free for ease of use. FDA clearance or clinical validation gives credibility. Based on these factors, the Total Spectrum series devices are some of the best and most accessible.
Best Practices for Using Red Light Therapy for Spasticity Relief
Finding the Right Dosage: Frequency, Session Length, and Distance
While using red light therapy to treat spasticity, pay attention to frequency, dosage, and treatment duration. For a complete guide on the correct dosage, always consult the official instructions. Ensure that your equipment produces particular wavelengths, and place it 4 to 12 inches from the site of concern. Each session must be 10 to 20 minutes, and you can repeat this 3 to 5 times a week for the best effects.
Conclusion: The Role of Red Light Therapy in Spasticity Management
Red light therapy is becoming the preference of numerous individuals as it is an innocuous, drug-free procedure with no adverse effects. The convenience of usage and satisfactory outcome appeal to individuals afflicted by spasticity who desire to cure their muscles without the unwanted effects of traditional treatments. RLT enhances the mobility of the muscles, regulates involuntary muscle contractions, and decreases rigidity by triggering cellular repair, increasing blood flow, and facilitating nerve recovery.
FAQS: Addressing Common Questions
Does red light therapy help spasticity?
Yes, red light therapy can help with spasticity by improving muscle and nerve function. It enhances muscle mobility, helps control involuntary muscle contractions, and aids in nerve recovery.
Does red light help tighten muscles?
Red light therapy can alleviate constricted muscles by increasing blood circulation and diminishing inflammation. This can result in relaxing the muscles and alleviating pain.
Does red light therapy help neurological issues?
It appears that red light therapy may be helpful for some brain and nerve problems. Studies uncover that it may heal damaged nerves, calm inflammation, and enhance blood flow. This may be helpful with nerve pain, head trauma, Parkinson's, and knotted muscles.
References
- Long-term analyses of spastic muscle behavior in chronic poststroke patients after near-infrared low-level laser therapy (808 nm)...
- Abdelhalim SM, Shoukry KE, Alsharnoubi J. "Effect of low-level laser therapy on quadriceps and foot muscle fatigue in children with spastic diplegia..." Lasers Med Sci. 2023;38:182.