Can Infrared Light Therapy Relieve Neuropathy Pain?

Has your hand ever felt numb or tingled? You may have brushed it off, and often it is harmless, yet these sensations can sometimes signal an underlying problem.

Neuropathy is damage to one or more nerves that typically causes tingling, numbness, weakness, or pain. It usually begins in the hands or feet but can involve other areas, reflecting a problem within the peripheral nervous system.

Symptoms include:

• Pins-and-needles
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Burning or sharp pain
• Numbness
• Muscle weakness or wasting
• Low blood pressure
• Bowel or bladder changes
• Double vision
• Sexual dysfunction
  

These are only some of the possible signs. What drives them, and how does neuropathy develop?

What is the peripheral nervous system?

The peripheral nervous system is the network of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. It carries signals between the central nervous system and the rest of the body.

In neuropathy, nerve cells (neurons) are damaged or destroyed, disrupting communication. A single nerve or many nerves may be involved, affecting sensation, movement, or automatic body functions.

Neuropathy is common; estimates suggest roughly 25–30 % of Americans may be affected. Causes range from diabetes and autoimmune disorders to infections or trauma. Symptoms vary from mild tingling to severe pain or weakness, but several strategies may help reduce discomfort and improve function.

Neuropathy LED light therapy

Peripheral neuropathy overview – Mayo Clinic Peripheral neuropathy symptoms – NHS Neuropathy facts – Cleveland Clinic

Most neuropathy treatments target symptoms rather than underlying causes. Light therapy may address both. Red-light therapy uses specific wavelengths to reach skin and soft tissue, encouraging cells to produce more energy. This process can improve local circulation, ease inflammation, and relieve pain in the treated area. Better blood flow may gradually lessen symptoms. One small study reported improved cellular energy after red-light exposure, while another noted reduced pain hypersensitivity and better sensorimotor scores in people with mild spinal-cord injury.

Because the approach is non-invasive and drug-free, some people with neuropathy use red-light devices at home to ease discomfort. Consistent use may reduce, though not always eliminate, symptoms.

Led Mask supplies light-therapy devices that are MDSAP-certified and FDA-cleared for specific indications; verify that any device you choose matches your intended use. The company offers both personal and clinical-grade systems, and it can assist with private-label options. Contact the team for details.

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PubMed: red light and mitochondrial function Journal of Neuroinflammation: pain hypersensitivity study