Provider-Guided Red Light Therapy in Raleigh
Red light therapy, also called photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of visible red and near-infrared light. These wavelengths interact with cells within the treatment area and may influence cellular activity and normal tissue processes.
At Carolina ChiroCare & Rehab, we take a clinical approach rather than treating red light therapy as a general wellness service. We evaluate why you are seeking treatment and determine whether light therapy is appropriate for your condition.
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy is a form of photobiomodulation that exposes the treatment area to specific wavelengths of red or near-infrared light. Unlike ultraviolet light, red light therapy does not use UV radiation.
The light is absorbed by cells within the targeted tissues and can influence biological processes associated with cellular activity and recovery.
- Uses red and/or near-infrared wavelengths
- Does not use UV light
- Non-invasive
- Does not require medication or injections
- Treatment protocols vary depending on the device and purpose
Red Light Therapy vs. Class IV Laser Therapy
Red light therapy and Class IV laser therapy both use light as forms of photobiomodulation, but they are not the same treatment.
Red Light Therapy
- Uses red and near-infrared light
- Generally treats a broader surface area
- Uses a different power and delivery method
- May be used for recovery and appropriate musculoskeletal applications
Class IV Laser Therapy
- Uses a higher-powered therapeutic laser
- Delivers concentrated light to a specific treatment area
- Designed for more targeted treatment
- Used at Carolina ChiroCare for appropriate muscle, joint, tendon, ligament, and nerve-related conditions
Not sure which one you need? You do not need to choose before scheduling. We can evaluate your condition and explain whether Red Light Therapy, Deep Tissue Laser Therapy, or another treatment option is more appropriate.
When Red Light Therapy May Be Considered
Red light therapy may be incorporated into care for certain musculoskeletal and recovery-related needs. Recommendations depend on the condition, treatment goal, and individual patient.
- Muscle soreness and recovery
- Certain joint-related discomfort
- Sports and repetitive-use recovery
- Soft tissue recovery
- Certain tendon-related conditions
- Recovery following physical activity
- Areas of persistent muscle tension or stiffness
- Supporting rehabilitation when appropriate
Red light therapy is not automatically appropriate for every pain condition, and research varies considerably depending on the diagnosis, wavelength, dosage, and treatment protocol.
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
- Red or near-infrared light is directed at the treatment area.
- Light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by cells within the tissue.
- This interaction is known as photobiomodulation.
- Cellular activity may respond to the delivered light energy.
- Treatment parameters depend on the device, wavelength, area and treatment goal.
Photobiomodulation has been studied across a variety of clinical applications, although treatment protocols and evidence differ significantly by condition.
What to Expect During Red Light Therapy
- We first determine whether red light therapy is appropriate for your goals.
- The treatment area is positioned near the red or near-infrared light source.
- Treatment does not involve injections or incisions.
- Sessions are performed in our Raleigh office.
- Treatment duration and frequency depend on the device and recommended protocol.
Your recommended treatment schedule is individualized rather than using the same number of sessions for every patient.
Red Light Therapy With Dr. Jeffrey Gerdes, D.C.
Jeffrey Gerdes, D.C. provides clinical oversight for light-based therapies at Carolina ChiroCare & Rehab. Dr. Gerdes has additional education in medical laser applications and is a certified practitioner through the American Institute of Medical Laser Applications.
Rather than recommending light therapy based only on the location of your symptoms, we evaluate your condition and determine how red light therapy may fit into a broader treatment or recovery plan.
Why Choose Carolina ChiroCare for Red Light Therapy?
- Provider-guided care: Treatment recommendations begin with an evaluation.
- Light therapy experience: Dr. Gerdes has additional training in medical laser applications.
- Multiple treatment options: We can determine whether red light, Class IV laser, chiropractic care, exercise, or another treatment makes sense.
- Individual treatment plans: Recommendations are based on your condition and goals.
- Established Raleigh practice: Carolina ChiroCare & Rehab has served Raleigh patients since 2010.
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy uses specific red and near-infrared wavelengths as a form of photobiomodulation. The light interacts with cells in the treatment area and may influence cellular activity and normal tissue processes.
Schedule Red Light Therapy in Raleigh
Interested in red light therapy for pain, recovery, or a musculoskeletal condition? Schedule an evaluation at Carolina ChiroCare & Rehab. Dr. Jeffrey Gerdes can evaluate your needs and determine whether red light therapy or another treatment option is appropriate.