Red Light Therapy for Arthritis 2025 | Expert Guide (Canada)

The Science Explained: How Red Light Heals Joints

To understand how red light helps arthritis, we need to look at the cellular level. This process, known as photobiomodulation (PBM), isn’t magic; it’s a scientifically validated biological process. Traditional treatments often involve medications with potential side effects, but PBM offers a non-invasive option to reduce pain and improve quality of life.

The primary target for red and near-infrared light is a part of our cells called Cytochrome C Oxidase (CcO), which is a key component of our mitochondria. Think of mitochondria as the tiny power plants inside your cells.

Key Mechanisms of Action:

• Restores Cell Energy: In stressed cells, a molecule called nitric oxide (NO) blocks this “power plant,” reducing energy (ATP) production. Red light provides the energy to release this NO blockade, allowing the cell to produce energy efficiently again.
• Reduces Inflammation: The released nitric oxide acts as a signaling molecule that improves local blood flow. This process helps lower levels of inflammatory cytokines—the proteins that cause painful swelling in joints—as confirmed by extensive research into PBM’s anti-inflammatory effects.
• Stimulates Cellular Repair: With energy restored, cells have the fuel they need for repair and regeneration. This is how red light therapy boosts mitochondrial function to promote healing.
• Alleviates Pain: By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, it directly leads to significant pain relief, making it a powerful tool for managing chronic pain from conditions like arthritis or back pain.

For arthritis, the choice of wavelength is critical. Red light (approx. 630-660nm) is excellent for surface inflammation, but deeper-penetrating Near-Infrared (NIR) light (approx. 810-850nm) is essential to reach the joint capsule itself. This is why high-quality red light therapy panels that combine both are superior for treating joint pain.

What Types of Arthritis Can It Help?

Because red light therapy targets the underlying mechanisms of inflammation and cellular repair, it can be beneficial for various forms of arthritis. It helps manage symptoms regardless of the specific cause.

• Osteoarthritis (OA)
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
• Psoriatic Arthritis
• Ankylosing Spondylitis
• Gout

The Core Benefits for Joint Health

The benefits of red light therapy for arthritis are wide-ranging, offering hope to those who haven’t found relief through traditional treatments. Consistent use can lead to transformative results.

Comparison with Other Arthritis Treatments

Red light therapy offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional arthritis treatments. While methods like medication and physical therapy are crucial, PBM can be a powerful complementary tool.

Unlike laser therapy, which uses a focused, high-intensity beam, red light therapy with LEDs covers a larger area with less intensity, making it safer and more practical for home use. It provides a gentle, athermic (non-heating) treatment that stimulates healing rather than ablating tissue. It’s much more effective for deep-seated inflammation than a simple TENS machine, which only blocks pain signals temporarily.

How to Use Red Light Therapy for Arthritis

Getting results from red light therapy depends on using it correctly. The key is consistency and ensuring the light can effectively reach the target joint. For help determining your ideal treatment time based on your device’s power, you can use a red light therapy dosage calculator.

• Session Duration: Aim for 10-20 minute sessions per treatment area.
• Frequency: For best results, use the device daily, or at least 5 times per week. Consistency is more important than long, infrequent sessions.
• Distance: Position the device 6-12 inches away from the target joint. For a flexible pad, you can apply it directly to the skin.
• Application: Ensure the light is aimed directly at the painful joint (e.g., your knee, hand, or lower back) to allow for the deepest penetration.

Best Red Light Therapy Devices for Arthritis (2025)

When it comes to getting results, not all devices are created equal. You need a device with sufficient power (irradiance) and the correct, clinically-proven wavelengths (Red and Near-Infrared). Here are the brands I trust for my clients.

1. Infraredi (Flex Series)

Top Recommendation for Targeted Joint Relief

This is my favorite and top recommendation for arthritis. The Flex Pad’s ability to wrap directly around a joint like a knee, shoulder, or hand ensures that the light is delivered exactly where it’s needed most, providing maximum therapeutic benefit. See how it stacks up in my Infraredi vs Kala comparison.

Check Price on Infraredi

2. Mito Red Light (Pro X Series)

Best Overall Power & Value Panel

For those who want a powerful panel for treating larger areas like the back or multiple joints at once, the Pro X series is an excellent choice. It offers a powerful combination of five different red and near-infrared wavelengths. Read my full Mito Red Light review to learn more.

Check Price on Mito Red

3. PlatinumLED (Biomax Series)

Industry Leader in Power

PlatinumLED is known for having some of the most powerful devices on the market. The Biomax series delivers high irradiance, which means shorter treatment times and deep penetration, ideal for stubborn joint pain. See my PlatinumLED review for details.

Check Price on PlatinumLED

Frequently Asked Questions