Red Light Therapy (RLT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with biological tissue. This technique typically uses visible red light (around 630 to 670 nanometers) and invisible near-infrared (NIR) light (generally in the 810 to 880 nanometer range). While RLT is commonly recognized for its benefits to skin health and muscle recovery, there is increasing interest in its potential application for deep internal organs like the lungs. The mechanism involves light penetration to stimulate cellular processes, offering a complementary approach for individuals seeking to support their respiratory function.
The Science Behind Red Light Therapy’s Lung Action
The challenge of treating an internal organ like the lung with light is overcome by the unique properties of near-infrared wavelengths. Unlike visible red light, which primarily acts on the skin surface, NIR light (700–1700 nm) exhibits a deeper penetration depth into the body’s tissues. This deeper reach allows the photons to pass through the chest wall and reach the lung tissue, with research suggesting penetration up to three centimeters or more in soft tissue.
Once the light energy reaches the cells, it is absorbed by the mitochondria. The primary photoreceptor in this process is an enzyme called cytochrome c oxidase (CcO), located within the inner mitochondrial membrane. When the light photons are absorbed by CcO, they help to dissociate nitric oxide, which can temporarily inhibit the enzyme’s function.
Freeing up CcO accelerates the electron transport chain, which is the final step in cellular respiration. This enhanced activity results in an increased production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main energy currency of the cell. By boosting ATP production, RLT equips lung cells better for repair, regeneration, and maintaining overall function, while also helping to reduce oxidative stress and modulate inflammatory responses.
Practical Application Protocols for Lung Treatment
For RLT to be effective on deep tissue like the lungs, device selection is a primary consideration. Users should prioritize devices that emit high irradiance, measured in milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm²), to ensure an adequate dose reaches the deep target tissue. Devices that combine both red light (660 nm) and near-infrared light (810 nm or 850 nm) are generally preferred, as the NIR wavelengths are the most effective for penetrating to the depth of the lungs.
The most common application method uses large light panels, which are superior to smaller handheld devices for covering the broad area of the lungs. The device should be positioned directly over the chest and the upper back to target the anterior and posterior sections of the lung lobes. To maximize light penetration, the skin in the treatment area should be clean and bare, as clothing significantly blocks the light waves.
A typical session duration for lung treatment ranges from 10 to 20 minutes per area. The recommended distance from the device varies by manufacturer but is often set between 6 and 12 inches from the skin. For chronic conditions, a maintenance schedule of three to five times per week is suggested, while more acute issues may involve daily or twice-daily use.
Safety Considerations and Limitations
Before beginning a regimen of red light therapy for an internal condition, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional. RLT should be viewed as a complementary approach and not a replacement for prescribed medical treatments for respiratory diseases. This consultation is particularly important for individuals with underlying health conditions, those who are pregnant, or those taking photosensitizing medications.
The use of protective eyewear is mandatory when treating the chest or face with high-powered light panels. Direct and prolonged exposure to the bright LEDs, especially the invisible near-infrared wavelengths, can cause eye strain or discomfort. Users should also avoid treatment over active cancerous tumors unless specifically directed by an oncologist, as the effect of RLT on cancer is complex and debated.
RLT for lung conditions is still largely considered experimental and is not approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA as a primary treatment for specific respiratory diseases such as COPD or asthma. While the therapy is generally safe and non-invasive, users must adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding session duration and distance to prevent skin irritation or overexposure.