It has long been known that light and human health are connected. Until the development of the laser and further research into light, the technology didn’t exist to make use of light therapy and near-infrared therapy. It’s worth considering a comparison of the two, so you can make the best decision for your health needs. With holistic alternative medicine in Arlington Heights, IL, you could be on your way to health and wellness that you have never previously experienced.
Light Therapy
Light therapy is also known as phototherapy. This is when light is used at specific frequencies and intensities to directly target cells or tissues in order to affect a person’s physiology. Phototherapy has been studied for more than a hundred years. A few common applications have been discovered and are frequently implemented to aid with human health.
Ultraviolet (UV) light is known to aid in increasing vitamin D levels. It’s also sometimes used to help with autoimmune or allergic skin conditions. This is common for patients with psoriasis, eczema, or vitiligo. Blue-green light, white light, and blue light are used to aid with treating jaundice in newborns. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is occasionally treated using bright blue or white light. This also seems to be effective when it comes to jet lag or disorders involving a person’s circadian rhythm.
Near-Infrared Therapy
As you can see, light therapy covers a broad range of applications. Near-infrared therapy might be considered a subset of phototherapy. The use of near-infrared wavelengths is able to energize mitochondria via photobiomodulation. This is often employed due to its anti-aging benefits. However, it could aid with wound healing or be employed for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Inflammation is associated with a number of health issues and diseases. Even though it may not be curative, combating inflammation can help people feel better, alleviate pain, and enable them to feel more energetic.
The infrared spectrum has frequencies below visible red light. You may be familiar with this because of its use in saunas. Near-infrared has wavelengths between 700 and 1400 nm. It’s popular at saunas because it generates the most heat. While it doesn’t penetrate deeply into tissues, this isn’t always necessary in order to be effective. Specifically, the 760 to 895 nm range is used to stimulate the function of mitochondria. In addition to the benefits mentioned previously, it’s also able to increase metabolism. If you’re looking to sweat a bit and boost your metabolism at the same time, near-infrared light therapy is a good option.
Other ranges of infrared are sometimes used as well. Mid-infrared light can penetrate human tissue better than near-infrared light. At the same time, is produces heat better than far-infrared light does. It’s used to expand blood vessels. This increases circulation, which could help the blood to reach injuries or parts of the body that are known to be inflamed.
Far-infrared light creates the least amount of heat, but it penetrates tissue the best. It’s known to aid with reducing inflammation. Additionally, it may reduce oxidative stress. Other benefits include bolstering circulation as well as improving the function of blood vessels and heart function. It’s also used to alleviate pain and fatigue. In some cases, it may assist with the normalization of blood pressure.
Contact Midwest Allergy Relief Centers at (847) 392-7901 if you’d like to learn more about holistic medicine in Arlington Heights, IL.
