Why Red Light Therapy Works Best Right After Surgery or Injury
At RegenClinic, we often treat people weeks or even months after a surgery, injury, or flare-up. And while red light therapy (photobiomodulation or PBM) is still beneficial at that stage, the most powerful window for healing is actually right at the beginning—within hours or days of the event.
Emerging research shows that PBM can dramatically reduce post-surgical pain, limit inflammation, and accelerate recovery—but timing is critical. Here’s what the science is telling us.
The Science Behind It: What Happens During Healing Mood
When you undergo surgery or sustain an injury, your body kicks off a biological repair process. This includes:
- Swelling and inflammation
- Cellular energy demands
- Tissue breakdown followed by regrowth
- Pain, often driven by inflammatory signals and nerve sensitivity
Photobiomodulation works by delivering red and near-infrared light (typically 600–1000 nm) to targeted tissues. That light is absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase, an enzyme within the mitochondria—the energy factories of your cells.
This triggers a cascade of positive effects:
- Increased ATP (cellular energy) production
- Reduced oxidative stress and inflammation
- Improved circulation and oxygenation
- Faster regeneration of tissue and nerve fibers
What the Research Says
Systematic Review on Postoperative Pain
A 2019 review in the Journal of Lasers in Medical Sciences looked at 10 clinical trials examining PBM after surgeries ranging from mastectomies to hernia repairs. 8 out of 10 studies showed significantly reduced pain in PBM-treated groups compared to placebo. One standout protocol using 4 J/cm² of infrared light post-tonsillectomy saw substantial pain relief after just one treatment.
Source: Ezzati F, Fekrazad R, Raoufi P. “The Effects of Photobiomodulation Therapy on Post-Surgical Pain”
PBM in Surgical Recovery Protocols
In a 2021 article published by Companion Animal Health, technician Ren Houyoux emphasized that in both animal and human medicine, PBM is most effective when applied immediately after surgery—ideally before the patient is discharged. It’s particularly useful for reducing inflammation and supporting wound healing while tissue is still in the early stages of repair.
Source: Houyoux R. “Photobiomodulation Therapy in the Postoperative Setting”
Companion Animal Health, 2021
Veterinary Medicine, Same Human Biology
A 2021 review in Veterinary Clinics of North America outlined how PBM improves recovery across a range of animal surgeries and injuries. The same mitochondrial biology applies to humans, meaning these findings are directly translatable.
PBM was shown to:
- Reduce drug dependence after surgery
- Accelerate tissue repair
- Improve nerve healing
- Increase comfort in aging or injured patients
Source: Menzie CL et al. “Photobiomodulation Therapy in Veterinary Medicine”
Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice, 2021
Why Early Treatment Matters
The first 24 to 72 hours after surgery or trauma are when inflammation is forming, pain pathways are being established, and tissue regeneration begins. Applying PBM during this window can prevent complications, reduce long-term pain, and accelerate functional recovery.
At RegenClinic, we use THOR Laser systems—the same class of devices trusted in clinical trials, hospitals, and elite research centers. Our post-surgical PBM protocols are:
- Non-invasive
- Drug-free
- Gentle and relaxing
- Backed by evidence
Planning a Procedure or Healing From Injury?
If you’ve just had surgery, an accident, or a flare-up of chronic pain, don’t wait to begin treatment. The sooner we apply light, the better your body responds.
You can book a session right away:
Call or text us at 250-813-2121
Email: sasha@regenclinic.ca
We’d love to support your healing—gently, effectively, and naturally.