Healing Bones Naturally: How Red Light Therapy Supports Fracture Recovery

At RegenClinic, we regularly see patients recovering from fractures—whether from a skiing accident, a fall, or post-surgical healing. And while casts and rest are essential, there’s something else that can dramatically speed up your recovery and reduce pain: photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as red light therapy.

This gentle, science-backed treatment supports the body’s natural healing response—and the earlier you begin, the more powerful the benefits.

scientific diagram showing effect of laser therapy on bone groth and development

What Happens After a Bone Fracture?

When a bone breaks, the body immediately begins the healing process. Inflammation, swelling, and pain are part of the first phase. Over the next several weeks, the body forms new blood vessels, stimulates collagen production, and gradually rebuilds the bone through a process called remodeling.

This is where red light therapy comes in—helping to regulate inflammation, accelerate tissue regeneration, and reduce pain without pharmaceuticals.

How Red Light Therapy Helps

Red light therapy works by delivering low-level wavelengths of light to the skin and underlying tissues. These wavelengths are absorbed by the mitochondria (the energy centers of your cells), specifically by an enzyme called cytochrome c oxidase. This interaction boosts ATP production, reduces oxidative stress, and improves circulation.

For fracture healing, PBM helps with:

  • Faster bone regeneration
  • Reduced inflammation and swelling
  • Pain relief
  • Better oxygen delivery and tissue repair
  • Softer surrounding muscle tension and trigger point releaseity

A 2023 review published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that Red Light Therapy is most effective when started early—within the first 2 to 4 weeks of injury. It activates stem cells, supports angiogenesis, and improves the quality and speed of bone repair. Waiting too long (beyond 60 days) may lessen its effectiveness.

Thor Laser Protocols for Fractures

At RegenClinic, we use THOR Laser systems—the gold standard in medical-grade Red Light Therapy equipment. These protocols are based on clinical studies and tailored to different types of fractures:

Femur Fractures

Treatment begins as early as possible, continuing daily for 5 days and then 2–3 times weekly. Laser and LED probes are used around the fracture site and nearby lymph nodes. Evidence from Saebo (2022), Cheng (2020), and Neto (2020) supports improved bone density and healing time.

Humerus Fractures

Red Light Therapy is applied before casting, if possible, and resumed after cast removal. If surgery or internal fixation was required, treatment begins immediately post-op. Trigger point therapy can also help relieve muscle compensation pain.

Jaw Fractures

This protocol targets the jaw, cervical spine, and lymphatic system to reduce swelling and pain. Patients recovering from dental trauma or orthognathic surgery often experience improved mobility and comfort with this gentle application.

Rib Fractures

Early treatment of rib injuries helps reduce inflammation and restore easier breathing. The protocol includes treatment of the injured rib, spinal nerves, and supporting lymphatics.

What the Studies Show

A number of peer-reviewed studies support Red Light Therapy for fracture healing:

  • Chang et al. (2014) found Red Light Therapy increased bone callus formation and reduced pain.
  • Shakouri et al. (2009) observed faster healing in long bone fractures with less discomfort.
  • A 2023 systematic review showed improved osteoblast activity, collagen synthesis, and accelerated bone remodeling when Red Light Therapy was used in early stages of healing.

In all cases, timing and consistency matter. Most protocols recommend starting treatment as early as possible and continuing for at least 8 sessions, often more.

A Natural Way to Support Your Body

Red light therapy is non-invasive, painless, and drug-free. It doesn’t replace your cast, orthopedic care, or physiotherapy—but it complements them beautifully. By improving your body’s own ability to heal, Red Light Therapy gives you an edge in recovery and long-term resilience.

Whether you’ve recently fractured a bone or are still dealing with lingering discomfort months later, our team can help you design a personalized healing plan.

Ready to get started?

Book a session or give us a call to find out how red light can support your healing process.

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Call or text us at 250-813-2121
Email: sasha@regenclinic.ca