How Red Light Therapy Supports Arthritis Relief—With Science and Heart

Arthritis is one of the most common reasons people visit RegenClinic. Whether it’s aching knees, stiff fingers, or widespread inflammation, arthritis limits the activities that bring joy and freedom to daily life.

This week, we’re taking a deeper look at how red light therapy (also known as photobiomodulation or PBM) helps support arthritis recovery—and why so many of our patients are choosing it as part of their care plan.

What is Red Light Therapy, or Photobiomodulation?

Red Light Therapy uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate healing at the cellular level. These wavelengths are absorbed by mitochondria—the energy-producing engines in your cells—and help reverse oxidative stress, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation.

More specifically, light interacts with a protein called cytochrome c oxidase, restoring balance and allowing the cell to produce ATP efficiently. This boost in cellular energy helps accelerate tissue repair and reduce pain naturally.

Osteoarthritis in the Knees: The Most Common Form

Osteoarthritis in the knees is extremely common among RegenClinic’s older patients. It’s often the result of wear and tear, leading to cartilage breakdown, pain, and swelling.

At RegenClinic, we use a science-backed THOR Laser protocol that targets not just the knee joint but also surrounding lymph nodes and spinal nerve roots. Treatments are delivered with large cluster probes and LED arrays, typically twice per week over 4–6 weeks.

Scientific support
A 2019 meta-analysis by Stausholm et al. reviewed 22 randomized trials and found significant improvements in pain and physical function for people with knee osteoarthritis. A follow-up study in 2022 found that combining Red Light Therapy with strength training produced even better long-term outcomes.

We’ve seen these results firsthand in patients who arrive stiff and sore, and walk out looser, more energized, and with a renewed sense of possibility.

Hand and Finger Arthritis: Precision Matters

For arthritis in the small joints of the fingers, the right tools and placement matter. Our protocol targets each affected finger joint, wrist, and relevant lymph nodes, with additional support at the cervical spine.

Why it works:
Red Light Therapy enhances collagen production and modulates inflammation in the joints. Studies show that when applied correctly, red light therapy can reduce morning stiffness, improve grip strength, and support hand mobility.

Many RegenClinic patients with hand arthritis have reported subtle improvements after just a few sessions—like being able to knit, chop vegetables, or hold a coffee cup without discomfort.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Calming Chronic Inflammation

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that causes systemic inflammation and pain. At RegenClinic, we treat RA with a full-body lens—targeting affected joints, lymphatic drainage points, and spinal nerve roots.

The science behind it:

• Imaoka et al. found PBM reduces interleukin-20 (a key pro-inflammatory cytokine in RA)
• Yamaura et al. confirmed PBM helps reduce cytokine production from RA synoviocytes
• Aimbire et al. showed red light therapy downregulates TNF-α, another major inflammatory molecule

What this means: Red Light Therapy doesn’t just mask symptoms—it helps re-regulate your immune system and reduce the underlying inflammation that fuels RA as early as possible and continuing for at least 8 sessions, often more.

Patients at RegenClinic Are Already Seeing Results

In interviews with over 20 of our patients, several noted that Red Light Therapy improved their arthritis-related symptoms—including pain reduction, better mobility, and increased energy.

One client shared:
“I have psoriatic arthritis and was in constant pain. After a few treatments, I noticed a real shift—less stiffness in the morning, and I’m sleeping better. I haven’t felt this mobile in years.”

Another reported:
“It’s slow and steady progress—not a magic bullet, but I feel more in control of my body again.”

A Gentle, Evidence-Based Option—That Fits Into Your Life

Red Light Therapy is non-invasive, painless, and medication-free. For some people, it’s a complement to physiotherapy or rheumatology treatments. For others, it’s a standalone option that finally offers relief after years of trying everything else.

Whatever your path, we’re here to support it—with science, care, and hope.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re dealing with arthritis or joint pain, reach out to us. We’d love to help you build a personalized plan using red light therapy to restore mobility, reduce pain, and help you do more of what you love.

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