Infrared Light Therapy for Pain: Near vs. Far Infrared

/ Dahms Acupuncture/

Infrared (IR) light therapy is gaining traction as a non-invasive, drug-free method of reducing pain and promoting healing. By delivering wavelengths of light beyond the visible spectrum, infrared penetrates tissues and triggers both cellular and circulatory benefits.

But not all infrared is the same—near-infrared (NIR) and far-infrared (FIR) light act differently in the body, and their usefulness may vary depending on the type of pain.

How Infrared Therapy Works

  • Near-Infrared (NIR, ~700–1400 nm): Penetrates deeply into muscles, joints, and nerves. Works through photobiomodulation, stimulating mitochondria, boosting ATP production, and reducing inflammation.

  • Far-Infrared (FIR, ~3000–100,000 nm): Penetrates only a few millimeters but produces gentle radiant heat, enhancing blood circulation, reducing stiffness, and promoting relaxation.

(Hamblin, 2017; Rao et al., 2019)

Therapeutic Delivery Methods

Infrared therapy can be applied through several devices:

  • LED panels / handheld NIR devices – best for targeted deep tissue pain.

  • FIR saunas – full-body therapy, improves circulation and reduces systemic inflammation.

  • Mineral plate infrared lamps – ceramic lamps coated with trace minerals, emitting a broad spectrum of IR (mid-to-far infrared). These lamps are especially popular in traditional Chinese medicine and physiotherapy for muscle stiffness, arthritis, and general aches.

(Masuda et al., 2005)

Where Infrared Therapy Stands: Science or Pseudoscience?

Infrared (IR) therapy—encompassing near-infrared (NIR) and far-infrared (FIR) modalities—is not pseudoscience when used appropriately. Scientific and clinical evidence supports its therapeutic benefits in various pain conditions.

What the Science Supports

  • Photobiomodulation (NIR/Visible light):
    NIR is validated for temporary pain relief. The FDA has cleared various photobiomodulation (PBMT) devices for managing adjunctive pain, meaning they can be used in addition to standard treatments. These devices use non-thermal light to stimulate cellular processes.
    aslms.org

  • Safe, low-risk technology:
    Regulatory agencies and clinical reviews affirm that properly used IR devices (especially FDA-cleared ones) pose low risk and are generally safe.
    American Academy of DermatologyLightForce Therapy Lasers

  • Emerging approvals:
    For example, the FDA has recently authorized photobiomodulation therapy for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), reinforcing its growing credibility.
    American Academy of Ophthalmology

Sources of Misunderstanding

Mislabeling and marketing hype contribute to skepticism:

  • Terms like “FDA-approved” or “FDA-certified” are often used incorrectly. The proper term for medical devices like IR units is FDA-cleared.
    UCLA Health

  • Devices making overreaching claims (e.g., “detox,” “cure cancer”) without evidence degrade the field’s legitimacy.

  • Variability in device quality, dosage, and user guidelines leads to inconsistent outcomes, fueling misconceptions.

Key Takeaway

  • NIR penetrates deeply, making it best for joint pain, nerve pain, and tendon injuries.

  • FIR provides soothing surface-level warmth, improving circulation, stiffness, and whole-body relaxation.

  • Mineral plate lamps are one of several practical ways to deliver infrared therapy, offering affordable and accessible FIR treatment at home or in clinics.

  • Infrared therapy is generally safe, but protocols vary—dosage, wavelength, and treatment frequency all influence effectiveness.

References

  • Levine SA et al. (2006). Randomized controlled trial on IR therapy for chronic low back pain. Pain Research & Management, PMC2539004.

  • Rayegani SM et al. (2017). Photobiomodulation for knee osteoarthritis. Lasers in Medical Science, PMC9980499.

  • Masuda A et al. (2005). FIR sauna therapy improves fibromyalgia symptoms. Intern Med, PMC3699878.

  • Bjordal JM et al. (2006). LLLT for tendinopathy. BMJ, PubMed 16980216.

  • Khalil M et al. (2024). NIR improves diabetic neuropathy. Scientific Reports, Nature link.

  • van Middelkoop M et al. (2011). IR phototherapy for sports injuries. Br J Sports Med, PMC8946909.

  • Scoon GS et al. (2007). FIR sauna and recovery. J Sci Med Sport, PubMed 17378879.

  • Rao S et al. (2019). FIR and cardiovascular health. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, PMC6619700.

  • Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021). Infrared sauna safety and benefits. Mayo Clinic