Red Light Therapy & Near-Infrared Light: What Is It and How Can It Be Used As A Nervous System–Supportive Tool?

Red light therapy (RLT) and near-infrared (NIR) light have gained attention as supportive wellness tools for recovery, tissue health, and nervous system regulation. While not a replacement for medical care, these light-based tools are often used to support the body’s natural healing and adaptive processes.

In my practice and personal life, I use red and near-infrared light as one supportive tool among many to help promote regulation, recovery, and resilience.

This page is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical care

What is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of visible red light, typically within the 630–700 nanometer (nm) range. When this light is applied to the body, light particles (photons) are absorbed at the surface of the skin by structures within cells often referred to as chromophores. This interaction is commonly described in research as triggering photobiomodulation — a process in which light influences normal cellular signaling and energy processes. Rather than treating conditions, red light therapy is studied for how it may support the body’s natural biological functions, including cellular communication and tissue response.

In wellness and recovery contexts, red light therapy is frequently discussed for its potential role in supporting:

• Cellular energy and metabolic processes

• Local circulation and oxygen delivery

• Tissue recovery following physical stress or strain

These wavelengths are absorbed primarily at the skin and superficial tissue level, making red light therapy a non-invasive option often used for brief, targeted exposure.

Red light therapy does not generate heat and is typically used as a supportive tool alongside other approaches to recovery and nervous system regulation. Research into photobiomodulation suggests that light exposure can influence cellular signaling pathways involved in tissue response and recovery. These interactions are being explored for how they may support the body’s natural processes related to circulation, cellular communication, and adaptive tissue function under physical stress.

What Is Near-Infrared (NIR) Light?

Near-infrared (NIR) light therapy uses longer wavelengths of light, typically in the 810–880 nanometer (nm) range. These wavelengths are not visible to the human eye but are able to penetrate more deeply into tissues than visible red light.

Because of this deeper penetration, NIR light is often discussed in wellness and recovery settings for its role in supporting deeper tissue processes, including muscles, joints, and connective tissue. Research exploring photobiomodulation frequently examines NIR light in relation to how the body responds to physical stress and load.

In supportive care contexts, NIR light is commonly referenced for its potential to support:

• Muscle and joint recovery after physical activity

• Relaxation and calming of the nervous system

• Recovery following postural strain or repetitive movement

Like red light therapy, NIR light is non-invasive, does not generate heat, and is typically used for brief, targeted exposure as part of a broader recovery or regulation-focused routine. Red and near-infrared light are often used together because they interact with different tissue depths, offering complementary support from the surface level to deeper structures.

How Light Therapy Is Thought to Support the Body

Red and near-infrared light therapy are not used to treat medical conditions or override the body’s natural processes. Instead, they are commonly discussed as tools that may support how the body already functions, particularly at the cellular and nervous system levels.

Research into photobiomodulation has explored how specific wavelengths of light interact with normal cellular communication. Light exposure is thought to influence mitochondrial activity—the part of the cell involved in energy signaling—by supporting the body’s ability to produce and utilize energy efficiently. This process is also associated with improved local circulation and oxygen delivery, which are important for tissue response and recovery following physical or metabolic stress.

From a nervous system perspective, red and near-infrared light are often discussed in relation to how sensory input can influence regulation. Gentle, non-invasive input may support signaling that helps the body shift out of prolonged stress patterns and into states more favorable for recovery and restoration. This is especially relevant when light therapy is used alongside foundational supports such as rest, movement, hydration, and regulated breathing.

Rather than acting as a standalone solution, light therapy is best understood as a supportive input—one that may complement the body’s existing adaptive mechanisms by creating an environment that encourages balance, efficiency, and resilience over time.

Why I Use Red Light Therapy in Practice and at Home

In my chiropractic practice, my primary focus is supporting nervous system regulation and adaptability—helping the body respond to stress and recover more efficiently over time. When appropriate, I may incorporate red or near-infrared light briefly during a visit as a supportive adjunct, often while someone is resting comfortably.

Used this way, light therapy is not a treatment on its own and is never the focus of care. Instead, it serves as a gentle sensory input that may support relaxation, recovery, and regulation alongside hands-on chiropractic care. It is always optional and is used thoughtfully, without replacing assessment, individualized recommendations, or manual work.

Outside the office, I also use red and near-infrared light personally as part of my own recovery and wellness routine. I find it helpful for general recovery after physical activity, supporting muscle and joint comfort, and encouraging a calmer nervous system state—especially in the evenings or during periods of travel or disrupted sleep.

I value tools that are simple, low-burden, and easy to integrate into real life, particularly for busy individuals and families. When used intentionally, red and near-infrared light can be one of many supportive practices that help create space for recovery and regulation—both in practice and at home.

In both my practice and personal routine, I use a portable red and near-infrared light device from LUMEBOX. I appreciate its simplicity, portability, and ease of use, which makes it accessible for individuals and families who want a low-burden way to support recovery and nervous system regulation at home.

For patients or readers who are interested in exploring red or near-infrared light outside the office, I’ve included an optional link to LUMEBOX along with a discount code. Using a home device is entirely optional and is not required to receive care in my practice. When used thoughtfully, tools like this can complement foundational practices such as movement, rest, and regulated breathing.

If you’re considering a home device, I encourage you to view it as a supportive wellness tool, not a replacement for professional care or individualized guidance, and seek guidance from your medical professional.

[Link to LUMEBOX Discount Code]

Common Questions About Red Light Therapy:

Is red light therapy safe? Red and near-infrared light are generally considered low-risk when used as directed by the manufacturer. These forms of light are non-invasive and do not generate heat. As with any wellness tool, individual responses can vary, and it’s important to use devices according to guidelines and personal comfort.

How long do sessions typically last? Most personal-use red and near-infrared light devices are designed for short, targeted sessions, often lasting just a few minutes per area. Consistency and moderation are usually emphasized over longer exposure times.

Does red light therapy replace chiropractic or medical care? No. Red light therapy does not replace chiropractic care, medical care, or individualized assessment. It is best understood as a supportive wellness tool that may complement other approaches focused on recovery, regulation, and overall well-being.

Can anyone use red or near-infrared light? While many people tolerate light therapy well, some individuals may need to avoid or modify use based on personal health history, medications, or sensitivity to light. If you’re unsure whether red or near-infrared light is appropriate for you, it’s always wise to consult with your healthcare provider before use.

Is Red Light Therapy Safe to Use While Pregnant?

Red and near-infrared light therapy are generally considered low-risk, non-invasive wellness tools when used appropriately. However, research specifically examining red or near-infrared light use during pregnancy is limited.

Because of this, light therapy during pregnancy should always be approached thoughtfully and conservatively. In wellness settings, some providers may choose to use light exposure away from the abdomen and for brief durations, while others may recommend avoiding use altogether depending on individual circumstances.

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before using red or near-infrared light at home. Any supportive tools during pregnancy should prioritize safety, comfort, and respect for the body’s changing needs.

What the Research Is Exploring?

Emerging research in photobiomodulation is helping scientists better understand how light interacts with the nervous system and cellular signaling pathways.

A 2020 study published in Science Advances explored how specific wavelengths of light may influence cellular communication and neural pathways involved in regulation and adaptation. Rather than acting as a direct treatment, light exposure was shown to interact with normal biological processes that help cells respond to stress and energy demand more efficiently.

This growing body of research helps explain why red and near-infrared light are often discussed in wellness and recovery settings—not as medical interventions, but as tools that may support the body’s natural regulatory systems when used appropriately.

(Link to the study here)

A Thoughtful Tool, Used Intentionally

Red and near-infrared light therapy are best understood as supportive wellness tools, not quick fixes or standalone solutions. When used thoughtfully, they may complement the body’s natural regulatory and adaptive processes—especially alongside foundational practices like movement, rest, nervous system–focused care, and stress awareness. My goal in sharing this information is to help individuals make informed, empowered choices about the tools they explore, always prioritizing safety, context, and the body’s own intelligence.

Dr. Lily Fackrell

First Light Chiropractic & Family Wellness

Lee's Summit, Missouri

Some links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase through them. I only share tools that I personally use and feel align with my clinical philosophy.

Any information shared here is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical care. Individual experiences may vary, and all wellness tools should be used thoughtfully and in context with your overall health and care plan.