Skip to ContentTo understand how a red light therapy device can help with muscle fatigue, you need to know how the technology works.
RLT systems produce low-level wavelengths of red or near-infrared light through a series of LEDs. The photobiomodulation process uses wavelengths typically between 600-900nm, which is just strong enough to penetrate your skin.
Near-infrared light can reach deep tissue, but red and NIR wavelengths are not harmful, like exposure to UV light. When areas of your body are exposed to wavelengths from a red light therapy system, it’s absorbed by mitochondria. The mitochondria begin to produce more ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which acts as energy for your muscle cells.
With more ATP available, your body gets a “boost” as it produces more energy. The extra energy is used by cells to repair muscle tissue, reduce oxidative stress, and combat inflammatory issues like delayed onset muscle soreness.
Once you understand how red light therapy works, you can begin to grasp how helpful it can be with the healing process.You don’t have to be an athlete to take advantage of this technology.
Red light therapy helps many people by reducing overall muscle recovery times.Cellular stimulation with RLT can accelerate the healing process and improve blood circulation by providing better blood flow to treated areas.
Low-laser light therapy has also been shown as effective in reducing inflammation and pain from muscle strains.Here are the main benefits of red light therapy for muscle pain：
If you’re wondering when to use red light therapy for muscle recovery, you’re not alone.
There are no official guidelines, but several studies have proved its effectiveness at various stages.
Performing RLT after workouts is the most effective method. If you’re tired of dealing with muscle soreness after an exercise session, red light therapy can help you recover.
This is where the wavelengths work best against inflammation and tears while helping to prevent muscle damage.
While it’s a great way to heal post-exercise, it can also be beneficial for muscle strength before workouts. Using red light therapy pre-workout could reduce fatigue and the potential for injury.
It’s a way to “prepare” your muscles before exercise or competition. RLT can also increase ATP production, which in turn creates more contractions and muscle energy.
Simply put, red and near-infrared light therapy can give you a boost before exercise, and help your body recuperate quickly post-workout.
The length of time it takes to feel the effects of an RLT session depends on many factors.
Session length and the strength of the red light therapy device are an important part of the equation, but so is the type of pain.
People dealing with minor aches and pains after exercise should notice an improvement within a few sessions.
You can get quick relief with targeted 5-10 minute treatments for stiffness, but may require more time for pain relief from an ankle sprain or deep tissue damage.
Chronic conditions or more severe injuries might take longer, with noticeable benefits often appearing after 2–3 weeks of consistent use.
We found that in most cases multiple sessions a week is the best way to experience the full benefits of red light therapy for muscle pain as it helps the body progressively heal while reducing inflammation.
Low-laser light therapy has been around for years but was typically reserved for cosmetic treatments from dermatologists and other specialists.
That’s still true today, although thanks to advances in laser therapy technology, people can experience red light therapy from the comfort of home.
Businesses that provide red light therapy for muscle recovery or pain relief can be hard to find depending on your location.
Wellness clinics and fitness centers are popular options along with physical therapy clinics. While many of these places use high-powered professional systems, there are disadvantages.
If you can find a clinic with an RLT machine for muscles, not facials, the treatment cost may surprise you.
We found that most people pay around $50-$100 on average. That may not seem expensive, but adds up quickly if you plan on multiple sessions each month. By comparison, a red light therapy device can quickly pay for itself.
The initial cost of a full or half-body RLT system can be high, but it’s an investment in your health. Home use red light therapy panels can cost between $500-$2,000. Alternatively, a bed like this one from Manchester City footballer Erling Haaland would set you back around $15,000.
If you want to perform red light therapy from home, there are a wealth of devices at your disposal.
That includes modular machines with multiple panels along with affordable high-powered systems like the RL1500 from RedLiteX. With seven specific wavelengths and a large treatment area, it can quickly tackle things like ankle sprains and muscle stiffness with ease.
Using a red light therapy device from home is as simple as following a company’s guidelines. Before you start, read the user guide for your RLT device.
Once you understand the features, you’ll want to consider the area where you plan to use the device.
Make sure you have access to a power outlet and prepare any stands, mounting systems, or straps you plan to use with your system.
Given the length of muscle recovery sessions, you may also need to find a comfortable spot.
When you’re ready for the session, remove anything that could block the healing wavelengths, including makeup and lotion.
Select an area or muscle group, and follow your red light therapy machine guidelines for the area you need to treat.
Afterward, it’s a good idea to hydrate and moisturize your skin if it feels dried out.
Many of us are exposed to LED lighting on a daily basis, but devices designed for RLT are in a different category.
The different wavelengths of light affect penetration and the overall strength of the system.
Clinical studies on how safe red light therapy is are limited, but most research suggests it's completely safe when used properly.
If you have preexisting skin conditions, sensitive skin, cancer, and hyperthyroidism or are pregnant, you’ll want to check with your physician beforehand.
A red light therapy system should never make your skin feel warm, and you should limit your session time with the system accordingly.
Even if you’re not using an RLT device near your face, you should always wear appropriate eye protection during red light therapy sessions.
Red light therapy systems designed for consumer use are very low-risk. They aren’t as powerful as machines used in a doctor’s office, but you should still follow any guidelines, avoid overexposure, and consult a doctor if you have any concerns.
Using red light therapy for a faster recovery could take an athlete’s sports performance up a level or help weekend warriors recover quickly from a hard training session at the gym.
The technology has become incredibly popular and is a unique way to give muscles a boost pre or post-workout.
Just keep in mind that red light therapy isn’t a cure-all, and it’s often used in combination with other techniques to enhance performance and muscle recovery.
