Causes of back pain
- Muscle and ligament sprains: These occur due to sudden movements, lifting heavy objects or poor posture, leading to acute back pain.
- Hernia: This occurs when an intervertebral disc bulges and puts pressure on nerves, causing severe pain, numbness and weakness in the legs.
- Osteoarthritis: A degenerative condition in which the cartilage in the joints wears down, leading to inflammation and stiffness in the back.
- Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis causes bones to weaken and compression fractures may occur, causing sudden and intense back pain.
- Poor posture and body mechanics: Prolonged incorrect sitting or standing, as well as incorrect movements during daily activities, can disrupt the natural curvature of the spine.
- Stress and psychosomatic causes: Emotional stress can cause muscle tension, which can lead to back pain due to mental and emotional strain.
Infrared light for back pain: scientific evidence
Although red and infrared light therapy are still relatively new in the health and wellness world, initial scientific results show promising outcomes:
A study in Pain Research and Management followed 40 patients with chronic low back pain over a 6-year period. These patients used wearable devices with light waves between 800 and 1200 nm. The results showed a significant reduction in their pain with no side effects reported.
Another study showed that red and infrared light can have positive effects on cells, which can help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing. Infrared Light Therapy (ILT) appears to be particularly effective for pain relief, with benefits for athletes as well as people with chronic muscle or nerve pain.
Photochemistry and Photobiology examined how infrared light can stimulate nerves and promote wound healing. The study concluded that nerve cells are particularly sensitive to infrared radiation and respond well to it.
Infrared light versus red light
Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), is known for its ability to penetrate deep into the skin. This therapy stimulates cellular activity and promotes healing from within. Users often report a reduction in muscle pain and joint inflammation, making it popular with athletes as well as people with chronic pain.
Infrared heat lamps are a versatile solution for various health and wellness needs by providing targeted heat therapy. They help reduce muscle tension, improve blood circulation and promote relaxation. As a result, they provide effective pain relief for conditions such as arthritis, back pain and sports injuries.
Are there any side effects or risks associated with light therapy?
Light therapy is sometimes wrongly confused with ‘radiation therapy’, which can give people the idea that it is as harmful as sun exposure. However, this is not true. Radiation is simply energy coming from a source. Red and infrared LED lights pose no danger because they emit non-ionising radiation. This means that they do not pose a risk like UV light or X-rays can.
Infrared Light Therapy has been extensively researched in thousands of scientific studies. Research shows that treatments with natural light are safe, well tolerated and have hardly any side effects. One example is a 2013 review by Harvard Medical School, which praised red light therapy for its non-invasive nature and almost complete absence of side effects.
5 lamps that relieve back pain!
Many different lamps can reduce your symptoms. We have listed the 5 most popular lamps for back pain:
1. SHIELD Backband
The SHIELD Backband combines red light and near-infrared therapy in a portable, flexible solution for back pain and muscle recovery. With four wavelengths (630 nm, 660 nm, 830 nm, 850 nm) and 105 triple-chip LEDs, the wireless backband provides powerful relief and accelerates muscle and joint recovery. It also stimulates tissue repair and reduces inflammation, contributing to pain relief and improved skin health.
Instructions for use: For optimal results, we recommend using the backband for 10-15 minutes per session. It is possible to treat several parts of the body per day. Do this at least 5-7 days a week.
2. Portable Infrared Backband
Using FIR radiation, the portable infrared belt can help relieve back pain by penetrating deep into the tissues and improving blood circulation. This innovative back belt offers deep, penetrating heat that relaxes your muscles and relieves pain. This can be useful for a variety of conditions, including muscle pain, stiffness and joint pain.
Instructions for use: For optimal results, we recommend using the backband for 10-15 minutes per session. It is possible to treat several parts of the body per day. Do this at least 5-7 days a week.
3. FORCE RTL 180
The FORCE RTL 180 is a red light therapy panel for home use aimed at pain relief and health improvement. With 180 dual-chip LEDs, it combines red light (630 nm & 660 nm) for skin rejuvenation and NIR infrared (830 nm & 850 nm) for deeper pain relief for muscle and joint pain. This device helps reduce back pain, muscle pain and inflammation, and supports recovery from conditions such as fibromyalgia. Its user-friendly design makes it ideal for daily relaxation and well-being.
Instructions for use: The recommended frequency and duration of use may vary depending on the user's specific needs and goals. It is generally advised to use red light therapy 3-5 times a week, with sessions lasting 10-20 minutes at a distance of 50-100 cm.
4. FORCE RTL 300
The FORCE RTL 300 lamp is a high-quality red light therapy panel that offers comprehensive coverage and effective treatment. With four precisely selected wavelengths and 240 dual-chip LEDs, this device is perfect for home users and professionals seeking maximum health benefits. The panel provides significant relief for both chronic and acute pain, including back pain and muscle aches. In addition, it accelerates the healing of both superficial and deep tissue damage.
Instructions for use: The recommended frequency and duration of use may vary depending on the user's specific needs and goals. Generally, it is recommended to use red light therapy 3-5 times a week, with sessions lasting 10-20 minutes at a distance of 50-100 cm.
5. Infrared lamp single or double head
Single- or double-headed infrared lamps are designed to provide both relaxation and health benefits. These lamps are ideal for anyone who wants to naturally reduce pain and tension. Thanks to the flexible arm, you can easily aim the light source at the desired spot for maximum comfort and effectiveness. The remote control allows you to easily adjust settings for a hassle-free and relaxing experience.
Instructions for use: It is recommended to place the lamp 50-100 cm from the body. Use the lamp for 10-15 minutes per session, per body part. Do not irradiate a body part several times in a day.
