As Red Light Therapy is gaining more and more traction as a safe and noninvasive treatment for humans, horses and all other family members we have put together some information on the benefits that you may find interesting.
Light affects us in ways that are not obvious and easily seen, the same goes for horses. The photoreceptors in their bodies are influenced by different types of light and in many studies, red and infrared light has been found to stimulate the mitochondria to produce more ATP, the very foundation of cellular energy. In turn spurring faster healing times, reduction in inflammation, higher production of collagen as well as other effects.
Although the penetrating depths vary of 10mm-50mm for Red and Infrared Light and affect the bodies tissue differently, both show therapeutic benefits.
Among the available studies, one found that horses with bowed tendon were treated and “results indicate that a significant percent of the standardbreds raced with similar or improved times and classes” click here to read https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6633135/
In another study, light therapy was used to treat certain lesions in standardbreds - PubMed (nih.gov), encouraging results were seen in a multitude of issues in the standardbreds that were treated.
Some key points of the benefits of light therapy are as follows.
LED’s at specific wavelengths increase circulation by increasing the formation of new capillaries. This allows more blood supply – hence more oxygen and vital nutrients to reach tissues.
This increased circulation also allows for the faster removal of metabolic wastes.
LED helps stimulate the production of collagen, an essential protein for repair to damaged tissue, including ageing skin and scars. It is widely used in the beauty industry due to it’s benefits.
Increases phagocytic activity hence helps to fight infections. Phagocytes help to destroy and mop up dead or degenerated cells.
Increases the activity of the lymphatic system thus promoting a faster elimination of swelling/oedema.
Stimulate tissue granulation which is an important part of tissue repair and healing.
Aids in relaxing muscles and reduce stress before and after exercise.
So as you can see there are a large number of benefits listed and can understand why it has become so popular. With all new technologies becoming available to us all the time it’s important to gain as much knowledge as possible when it comes to the care of our horses and the treatments we are using.