Running a marathon, LED Phototherapy could help you get your PB

Posted on 03/04/2023

April seems to be a busy month for Marathons and fun-runs and I wondered if you are preparing to take part?

If your muscles ache, you’re carrying an injury or you just want to have a quicker recovery in between training sessions you could try Red and Near-infrared light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation or Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT).

Low level laser therapy was developed by NASA and has actually been in existence for decades.  It involves delivering red and near infrared wavelengths directly into the skin, which then travels to the cells and tissues.

Red and near-infrared light have been FDA approved to be used clinically, and NASA themselves used this technology to aid the health of their astronauts in space, as well as sending resources to the military to assist in wound healing.

Scientific studies have shown that the benefits of LED red and near infrared light include:

• Stimulation of blood flow
• Increased oxygenation and nutrition directly to cells and tissues (including muscles)
• Increased production of ATP energy in the cells, reducing muscle fatigue
• Reduction in inflammation and pain
• Fast-tracked wound healing, including sprains and tears
• Increase in fibroblasts, allowing for stronger connective-tissue
• Quicker post-exercise recovery
• Performance enhancing, due to increased energy throughout the body
• Increased endurance and stamina
• Decreased levels of cramps, spasms and knots
• Increased hydration and oxygenation

The results from red phototherapy are so impressive that sports clubs around the UK are now using it to improve both training and recovery sessions. England Rugby are known to have introduced this technology a few years ago!

A variety of clinical studies have noted the benefits of photobiomodulation on the body. One study on 2016, looked at the effect of LED light on athletes:

Photobiomodulation Therapy Improves Performance and Accelerates Recovery of High-Level Rugby Players in Field Test: A Randomized, Crossover, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study

They summarised that Red and Near-infrared LED phototherapy ‘can enhance performance and accelerate recovery of high-level rugby players in field test.’

In December 2022, Cheltenham Reflexology and Massage purchased the most powerful low level laser in the World, (LED phototherapy machine) from the company Dermalux.

The TriwaveMD LED machine is medically CE certified for Pain relief (muscular skeletal), wound healing, acne and Psoriasis.

At Cheltenham Reflexology and Massage and ProFacials, we have seen excellent results in the reduction of pain and inflammation in knee joints, decreased back pain, post-surgery wound healing, reduction in skin inflammation and rejuvenation of skin.

We are based in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire at 1 St Margaret’s Terrace. Please contact us on 01242 255440 if you would like more information.