Infrared near therapy: Explaining and exploring near infrared therapy

9 Minute Read

If you’ve searched the internet for “infrared near therapy,” you may be interested in learning about near infrared light therapy. Infrared therapy has been called a variety of different things—including near infrared light therapy and red light near infrared therapy.

This article will help explain what near infrared light therapy is, as well as help you explore its many benefits. Upon reading this article, you will also be enlightened as to the many ways in which you can enjoy near infrared light therapy, including in Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs with Infrared and Red Light therapy and Jacuzzi® Infrared Saunas.

Article highlights:

Defining near infrared therapy, and the science behind it
Discovering the benefits of near infrared therapy
Exploring near infrared therapy in Jacuzzi® Infrared Saunas and Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs with Infrared and Red Light therapy

What is near infrared light therapy?

Near infrared light therapy (NIR therapy) uses light wavelengths from the near infrared spectrum to penetrate the skin, muscles, and tissues. It is non-invasive and uses light energy to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Unlike other forms of infrared therapy that might focus on heating the body from the outside, near infrared light therapy works by emitting light that can be absorbed by the deeper layers of the skin and tissues.

Near infrared light typically refers to wavelengths in the range of 700 nm to 1,400 nm (nanometers), although the therapeutic effects of these wavelengths are most commonly observed between 800 nm and 1,100 nm. This range of light is invisible to the human eye, but its effects on the body can be profound. It is used in various applications, from promoting relaxation and pain relief to improving circulation and accelerating tissue healing.

The science behind near infrared therapy

According to several studies featured in an article on Nature.com, “NIR/red light therapy is a form of phototherapy that utilizes specific wavelengths of light to promote healing and reduce inflammation [and] is believed to enhance mitochondrial function... contributing to improved cellular respiration and ATP production.”

ATP stands for adenosine triphosphate, which is considered to be the energy currency of the cells. An article on the Universal Neurological Care website explains that red light therapy utilizing wavelengths of red and near-infrared light stimulates the energy centers of cells to produce more ATP (cellular energy).

The article goes on to explain: “Inside almost every cell in your body is the mitochondria, often called the ‘powerhouses’ or ‘batteries’ of your cells. The mitochondria’s main role is to produce a molecule called ATP, which acts as an energy source and powers nearly every function in the human body. Red light therapy works by stimulating the mitochondria to produce more ATP. This extra energy provides more power to your cells, allowing cellular processes to function more effectively.”

This increase in ATP production is essential for many physiological benefits. It enhances the body’s ability to repair damaged tissues, reduces inflammation, and promotes cell regeneration. The effect of near infrared light therapy is not limited to the skin, as it can penetrate deeper into the tissues, providing therapeutic benefits for muscles, joints, and even bones. These benefits are particularly significant for individuals dealing with pain, injury, or chronic conditions.

Benefits of near infrared light therapy

Near infrared light therapy has been touted for a number of benefits, including:

Temporary pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects—One of the most widely recognized benefits of near infrared light therapy is its ability to temporarily reduce pain and inflammation. This effect is particularly to help users live well with chronic conditions. By increasing blood circulation and stimulating the body’s natural healing responses, near infrared light therapy helps reduce the risk of muscle pain.

For people with chronic pain, near infrared light therapy offers a non-pharmaceutical alternative to temporary pain management. Studies have shown that near infrared light can help decrease pain levels in a variety of conditions. However, if you have health issues, its best to talk directly with your health care provider about options that are right for you based on your specific needs.

Accelerated tissue repair—Near infrared light therapy has been shown to increase collagen production and improve tissue regeneration. Collagen is a crucial protein for skin and tissue repair, and by stimulating its production, near infrared light therapy helps the body recover more efficiently from injuries, cuts, and burns. Athletes recovering from muscle injuries often use this therapy to speed up the repair of muscle fibers and improve recovery time after exercise.

Improved circulation and blood flow—The ability of near infrared light therapy to improve circulation is one of the reasons it has been widely adopted in various therapeutic and wellness settings. By penetrating deep into the tissues, near infrared light stimulates the dilation of blood vessels and increases blood flow.

This improved circulation has several benefits. First, it ensures that more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to tissues. Second, it facilitates the removal of metabolic waste products that may build up in tissues, particularly after strenuous exercise or injury. Enhanced circulation can also help reduce swelling and inflammation, further contributing to pain relief and tissue repair.

Skin rejuvenation and anti-aging effects—One of the most popular applications of near infrared light therapy is in the realm of skin care and anti-aging treatments. By stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, near infrared light therapy helps to improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and promote overall skin rejuvenation.

Regular use of near infrared light therapy can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and sagging skin, making it a valuable treatment for people looking to maintain youthful, healthy skin. It can also help with other skin issues such as acne scars, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation by promoting the regeneration of healthy skin cells.

Muscle recovery and improved performance—Athletes and fitness enthusiasts are increasingly turning to near infrared light therapy for muscle recovery. By reducing inflammation and promoting the repair of muscle fibers, near infrared light therapy can accelerate the recovery process after a workout, allowing athletes to train more frequently and at higher intensities.

In addition to speeding up recovery, near infrared light therapy can also enhance muscle performance. Studies have shown that regular exposure to near infrared light can improve endurance and reduce fatigue during physical activity. This makes it an appealing option for athletes looking to improve their performance and prevent overtraining.

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How near infrared therapy can be delivered

There are various ways in which individuals can access the benefits of near infrared light therapy, and it can be used in a variety of settings. Some of the most popular methods include:

Near infrared light devices—Portable devices like handheld light panels, helmets, or pads equipped with near infrared light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are available for personal use. These devices can be applied to specific areas of the body, such as the back, joints, or face, to target localized pain, promote healing, or rejuvenate the skin.

Infrared saunas—Infrared saunas use infrared light to heat the body from the inside out. While traditional saunas rely on steam or dry heat to raise the temperature of the air, infrared saunas use infrared light to directly warm the body. Many modern infrared saunas combine near infrared light therapy with full-body heating, offering an immersive and relaxing experience that also provides the therapeutic benefits of light therapy.

The advantage of infrared saunas is that they not only help with relaxation and stress reduction, but they also promote detoxification through sweating. This makes infrared saunas an excellent option for people looking to enhance their overall wellness while enjoying the benefits of near infrared therapy.

Jacuzzi® Infrared Saunas—Jacuzzi® Infrared Saunas provide a private, peaceful environment where individuals can enjoy near infrared light therapy while also experiencing the relaxing effects of traditional sauna therapy.

Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs with Infrared and Red Light therapy—Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs have incorporated Infrared and Red Light therapy into some of their most luxurious hot tubs, providing you with a next-level spa experience that combines the soothing effects of heat with the therapeutic benefits of light. It comes standard on models in the J-LX® Collection and the J-400™ Collection. It is also available as an optional upgrade on models in the J-300™ Collection.

In addition to the physical benefits, using Jacuzzi® Infrared Saunas and Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs with Infrared and Red Light therapy can also help with stress reduction and mental relaxation. The warmth and light therapy work together to create a rejuvenating experience for both the body and the mind.

Near infrared light therapy offers a wealth of therapeutic benefits for the body, from temporary pain relief and inflammation reduction to enhanced skin rejuvenation and muscle recovery. Whether you’re an athlete looking to enhance your performance, recovering from an injury, or simply interested in improving your overall health, near infrared therapy is a versatile and effective option you may want to explore further.

With the growing popularity of devices such as Jacuzzi® Infrared Saunas and Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs with Infrared and Red Light therapy, you can access the benefits of near infrared light therapy from the comfort of their homes. These products provide a convenient and relaxing way to incorporate light therapy into your wellness routine, offering a unique combination of heat, relaxation, and healing infrared. As research into the benefits of near infrared light continues to evolve, this innovative therapy will likely become an increasingly popular part of wellness and recovery regimens around the world.

Medical disclaimer: This information is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. Please contact your GP or other medical professional for advice if you have any concerns about your current health or well-being.

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