Effectiveness of Infrared Light Therapy for Pain Management
Infrared light therapy has limited effectiveness for pain management, with most clinical guidelines acknowledging it as an alternative or adjunctive treatment option rather than a first-line therapy for pain conditions.
Evidence for Infrared Light Therapy in Pain Management
Guideline Recommendations
The American Academy of Neurology, American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine, and American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation mention infrared therapy as one of many nonpharmacological modalities for painful diabetic neuropathy, but do not provide a recommendation level for its use 1. This suggests it is not considered a primary treatment option.
The British Association of Dermatologists guidelines primarily discuss infrared therapy in the context of photodynamic therapy for skin conditions rather than pain management 1.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines for cancer pain do not include infrared light therapy among their recommended interventions for pain management 1.
Research Evidence
The most compelling evidence comes from a 2006 randomized controlled trial that demonstrated effectiveness of infrared therapy for chronic low back pain. In this study, the mean pain scores on the numerical rating scale in the treatment group fell from 6.9/10 to 3/10, while the placebo group only decreased from 7.4/10 to 6/10 2.
A 2012 study showed that linear-polarized near-infrared light irradiation combined with nerve blocks or local blocks provided better immediate pain relief compared to blocks alone, though the effect did not persist at 6 months 3.
A 2015 study on temporomandibular disorders found that both red and infrared LED therapy reduced pain and increased mandibular range of motion, with effects comparable to infrared laser therapy 4.
A large retrospective study of 662 patients using 830 nm infrared diode laser therapy showed long-term pain attenuation with total efficacy ratings (excellent plus good) of 73.3% in men and 76.8% in women 5.
A 2022 systematic review noted decreased pain levels as evaluated by visual analog scale in patients with musculoskeletal disorders treated with infrared radiation, particularly for conditions like osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia, though it failed to facilitate muscle recovery following athletic injuries 6.
Clinical Applications
Conditions That May Respond to Infrared Therapy
- Chronic low back pain - Moderate evidence of effectiveness 2
- Musculoskeletal pain conditions - Some evidence for osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and myofascial pain 6
- Temporomandibular disorders - Limited evidence showing comparable effects to laser therapy 4
Conditions With Limited Evidence
- Painful diabetic neuropathy - Mentioned in guidelines but without strong recommendation 1
- Cancer pain - Not recommended in major guidelines 1
Treatment Parameters
When using infrared therapy, these parameters have shown some effectiveness:
- Wavelength: 800-1200 nm for deep tissue penetration 2
- Session duration: Typically 60 seconds per point 4
- Treatment frequency: 2 sessions per week for 4 weeks 4
Limitations and Considerations
- Temporary effects: Many studies show only short-term pain relief rather than long-term resolution 3
- Variable results: Response varies significantly between individuals and conditions
- Limited high-quality evidence: Many studies have small sample sizes or methodological limitations
- Potential side effects: May include pain during treatment, hyperpigmentation, and potential eye hazards if proper protection is not used 7
Conclusion
While some evidence supports the use of infrared light therapy for certain pain conditions, particularly chronic low back pain and some musculoskeletal disorders, it should be considered as an adjunctive rather than primary treatment. The most recent and highest quality evidence suggests it may provide temporary pain relief but has not been established as a first-line therapy in major clinical guidelines.
For patients seeking non-pharmacological pain management options, a trial of infrared light therapy might be reasonable after conventional treatments have been attempted, particularly for chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions.