Overview:
- Low-level infrared therapy is a low-energy laser that uses light in the infrared spectrum to promote healing, increase circulation and reduce pain.
- This unique therapy has proven, in some cases, effective for chronic pain conditions and other indications like acne, retinal degeneration and non-healing wounds.
- The pain management specialists at Tulsa Pain Consultants explain why they use infrared therapy as a supplement to pain treatment.
Infrared therapy utilizes infrared lamps to increase blood flow and circulation, promote healing, and when used alongside acupuncture, significantly reduce pain. What makes this therapy effective is the nitric oxide it prompts your body to release—this gas boosts oxygen and blood flow to the immediate vicinity being treated, resulting in faster healing and reduced inflammation.
Because this therapy is still relatively new and not widely available, the team is educating patients on what to expect during their infrared therapy session. First and foremost, this treatment is quick and painless and does not produce the same light rays dangerous indoor tanning beds do. In most cases, flexible pads with infrared lights, or infrared lamps, are placed directly over the area causing pain.
The energy from these lights will then penetrate the skin and be absorbed by the deep tissues. According to various studies, infrared therapy has the ability to increase blood flow by 400 percent after 30 minutes of treatment. Now, keep in mind these results won’t be seen in every patient. Nevertheless, the treatment has been considered beneficial for the following conditions:
- Chronic musculoskeletal pain
- Non-healing wounds
- Overuse injuries
- Various forms of arthritis
- Neuropathy
- Tendonitis
- Surgical incisions
- And more
Infrared therapy may be used alongside acupuncture for maximum pain-reducing results! Talk to your Tulsa Pain Consultants physician today about incorporating infrared therapy into your pain treatment regimen.
Tulsa Pain Consultants is a multi-location pain management practice in Oklahoma that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. We are dedicated to helping those who are suffering find the relief they deserve. Our team uses a balanced approach by incorporating minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, complementary and alternative medicine, and medication to help patients take control of their pain. Call 855-918-PAIN or click on our “Request An Appointment” tab to meet with one of our talented pain management specialists today!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.