A supportive recovery option to complement chiropractic care
Red light therapy (RLT) is offered as a simple, non-invasive way to support recovery, ease muscle tension, and complement hands-on chiropractic care.
It can be used alongside your treatment plan to help with stiffness, post-exercise soreness, general muscular discomfort, and recovery-focused wellness care.
What is red light therapy?
Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light delivered through a medical-style light panel.
These wavelengths are used to support normal cellular function and recovery processes in the body. Many people choose red light therapy as part of a broader care plan for muscle tension, exercise recovery, and general wellbeing.
Red light therapy is used as a supportive tool — not as a stand-alone miracle treatment, but as an option that may work well alongside chiropractic care, movement advice, and recovery strategies.
How may it help?
Red light therapy may help support:
- muscular recovery
- general stiffness and tightness
- post-exercise soreness
- neck, back and shoulder tension
- circulation and recovery support
- overall wellness and recovery-focused care
Some people report feeling looser, warmer, and less “stuck” after a session. Others simply find it a helpful addition to their overall care plan.
Why offer it in a chiropractic clinic?
Because recovery matters.
Chiropractic care is about helping the body move and function better. Red light therapy fits that philosophy well by offering a simple, low-effort recovery modality that can be used before or after treatment, depending on the situation.
For some people, it may help prepare tight or guarded tissues. For others, it may be a useful add-on after treatment or as part of a broader recovery and wellness plan.
It is offered in a practical, grounded way — tailored to the person in front of us
What does a session involve?
A red light therapy session is simple.
You’ll be positioned comfortably in front of the panel for a short, timed exposure. Depending on the goal, the light may be used on areas such as the neck, shoulders, upper back, lower back, hips, or other regions discussed during your visit.
Sessions are brief 10 – 20mins, easy, and can often be added to your chiropractic appointment.
Who may it suit?
Red light therapy may suit people looking for supportive care for:
- muscular tightness
- recovery after exercise or physical work
- general stiffness
- wellness and recovery routines
- people who want to complement their chiropractic care with another non-invasive option
If you are unsure whether it is appropriate for you, just ask during your appointment.
A practical, no-hype approach
There is a lot of noise online about red light therapy.
The approach is simple:
- use quality equipment
- apply it thoughtfully
- pair it with sensible clinical reasoning
That means focusing on where it may genuinely be useful as part of a broader care plan.
Red light therapy and chiropractic care
Red light therapy is not a replacement for an assessment, a diagnosis, or appropriate hands-on care where needed.
Instead, it can be used as an adjunct — another tool that may help support recovery, comfort, and function alongside chiropractic treatment.
For some patients, that may mean adding it to a visit now and then. For others, it may become a regular part of their recovery routine.
Frequently asked questions
Is red light therapy safe?
Red light therapy is generally considered low-risk and non-invasive when used appropriately. Suitability can vary depending on the individual, so it is always best to discuss your situation first.
Will I feel heat?
Yes, many people notice a pleasant radiant warmth from the panel, especially during closer or longer sessions.
How long does a session take?
Sessions are usually short and can often be added to your appointment.
Do I need to book it separately?
Not always. Depending on availability and your care plan, it may be added to your visit. Ask when booking or during your appointment.
Is it covered by private health?
This depends on how the service is provided and your cover. Ask in clinic if you’d like to discuss how it fits with your appointment.
What Wavelengths are used
With both the Red and Infrared LED’s on, it emits. 630nm, 660nm 810nm, 830nm, and 850nm of light.
Ready to Book?
If you’d like to try red light therapy as part of your care, book an appointment with Dr Matt or ask about adding it to your next visit.
Research & Evidence
There is a growing body of research exploring the effects of red and near-infrared light (often referred to as photobiomodulation) on cellular function and recovery processes.
While results can vary between individuals, studies suggest several mechanisms through which this type of light may support the body.
Cellular energy and mitochondrial function
Red and near-infrared light are absorbed by components of the mitochondria, particularly cytochrome c oxidase, which plays a role in cellular energy production.
Research suggests this interaction may influence ATP (energy) production and cellular signalling pathways.
- Hamblin MR. Photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy. J Biophotonics. 2016.
- de Freitas LF, Hamblin MR. Proposed mechanisms of photobiomodulation. J Biophotonics. 2016.
Circulation and oxygen utilisation
Light therapy has been shown to influence blood flow and oxygen delivery within tissues.
Some studies report increases in oxygenated haemoglobin and improvements in cellular metabolism following exposure to red and near-infrared light.
- Salgado ASI et al. Photobiomodulation therapy increases oxygen consumption and haemoglobin oxygenation. Scientific Reports. 2015.
- Rojas JC, Gonzalez-Lima F. Low-level light therapy of the eye and brain. Eye and Brain. 2011.
Tissue support and recovery
Photobiomodulation has been studied for its role in supporting tissue repair and recovery processes.
Research suggests it may influence cell proliferation, migration, and regeneration in various tissues.
- Chung H et al. The nuts and bolts of low-level laser therapy. Ann Biomed Eng. 2012.
- Karu TI. Mitochondrial mechanisms of photobiomodulation. Photochem Photobiol. 2008.
Inflammation and oxidative stress
Studies suggest red and near-infrared light may influence inflammatory pathways and oxidative stress at a cellular level.
These effects are thought to involve modulation of reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide signalling.
- Hamblin MR. Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. AIMS Biophysics. 2017.
- Poyton RO, Ball KA. Therapeutic photobiomodulation: nitric oxide and cytochrome c oxidase. Biochim Biophys Acta. 2011.
A balanced, practical approach
While there is promising research in this area, red light therapy is not a stand-alone treatment for medical conditions.
It is used as a supportive option alongside appropriate assessment, chiropractic care, and individualised management strategies.