Long Covid is a complex and often mysterious symptom complex that can occur after infection with the COVID-19 virus. Many people experience long-term symptoms such as fatigue, muscle and joint pain, headaches, and difficulty breathing months after recovering from the acute infection. This has left many patients searching for effective treatment options. Red light therapy has proven to benefit a variety of conditions in recent years, but could it also help with recovery from long Covid? Let’s take a closer look at the science and potential benefits of red light therapy for long Covid.
What is long covid and why is it so difficult to treat?
Long Covid is defined as experiencing symptoms that last longer than 4 weeks after being infected with the COVID-19 virus. Symptoms can range from extreme fatigue to cognitive complaints (also called “brain fog”), muscle and joint pain, breathing problems and sleep disorders. What makes long Covid so complex is the enormous variety of symptoms it causes, as well as the fact that there is no standard treatment that is effective for everyone.
Conventional treatments often focus on relieving specific symptoms, but there is little that is really focused on promoting the body’s overall healing at a cellular level. This is where therapies such as red light therapy come into play.
How does red light therapy work?
Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light, usually between 630 and 850 nanometers, to stimulate the mitochondria in cells. Mitochondria are the energy factories of cells, and by applying the right type of light, the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) can be increased, which is essential for energy production and cell repair. This process can help to improve the body’s cellular functions, which is crucial for people recovering from a serious infection such as Covid-19.
Scientific research has already shown that red light therapy is effective in improving cell regeneration, reducing inflammation and accelerating tissue repair. All of these effects can be particularly helpful for people suffering from the long-term effects of long covid.
Red light therapy and fatigue in long covid
One of the most common and devastating symptoms of long covid is fatigue. This fatigue is often not only physically, but also mentally taxing. It can be difficult to perform daily tasks or even to function on a social or professional level. Red light therapy may offer a solution here by stimulating the mitochondria and increasing energy production at the cellular level.
Studies have shown that people who regularly undergo red light therapy experience less fatigue and recover faster from both physical and mental exhaustion. By providing the body’s cells with more energy, red light therapy can help restore energy balance, which can have a positive effect on the overall fatigue that often accompanies long covid.
Relief of pain and inflammation in long covid
Muscle and joint pain is common in people with long covid. This is often due to long-term inflammation circulating through the body as a result of the infection. Red light therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and promoting pain relief by improving blood circulation and speeding up cell repair processes. Thus, using red light therapy can not only help relieve pain, but also address the underlying inflammatory processes that drive many of the symptoms of long covid.
When used regularly, red light therapy can reduce the severity of pain symptoms, leading to improved mobility and greater comfort in daily life. This makes it an attractive option for people suffering from long-term joint or muscle pain after a COVID-19 infection.
How can you apply red light therapy for long covid?
The application of red light therapy is simple and can be done at home. There are several red light therapy devices available that are specifically designed for use in the home environment. These devices emit light in the correct wavelengths and can help to support healing and energy production at the cellular level.
When choosing a device, it is important to pay attention to the quality and intensity of the light, as well as the wavelength that the device emits. A good red light therapy device, such as the devices from Nuvibody , can help to deliver the right dosage and intensity of light for effective recovery. Especially for people recovering from long covid, using such devices daily can contribute to a faster recovery process.
Red light therapy and cognitive complaints in long covid
In addition to physical symptoms such as fatigue and pain, many long covid patients also experience cognitive complaints, such as memory problems and “brain fog”. This can significantly reduce the quality of life. Although research into the effects of red light therapy on cognitive complaints is still in an early phase, there are indications that stimulating the mitochondria in the brain cells can help improve cognitive functions.
By increasing the production of ATP in the brain, red light therapy could potentially improve mental clarity and relieve “brain fog.” Patients suffering from cognitive problems after a Covid-19 infection may benefit from regular treatment with red light therapy to help the brain recover.
What do the studies say?
There have already been several clinical studies that have shown the effectiveness of red light therapy for other conditions , such as fatigue, pain relief, and cell repair. Although there is little direct research into the application of red light therapy for long COVID, the results are promising ( source ). Scientists and doctors believe that the principles of the therapy, which promote cellular energy production and repair, could be a potentially powerful tool in the fight against the long-term symptoms of long COVID.
Conclusion: can red light therapy help with long covid?
While there is still much to be learned, the proven effects of red light therapy on other conditions offer great hope for people recovering from long covid. From relieving fatigue to reducing pain and inflammation , the potential benefits are significant. Red light therapy is a noninvasive and natural treatment option that can aid the recovery process by improving the body’s cellular functions.
If you are experiencing symptoms of long covid, it may be a good choice to consider red light therapy. Choose a high-quality red light therapy device , such as those from Nuvibody, and begin regular use to discover the benefits of this powerful therapy for your health and well-being. With the right dosage and consistency, red light therapy can be a valuable addition to your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I use red light therapy for long covid?
The optimal frequency of treatments depends on the severity of your symptoms and your individual response to the therapy. In general, it is recommended to use red light therapy 3 to 5 times per week, starting with shorter sessions of approximately 5-10 minutes. As your body adjusts, you can slowly increase the length of the sessions.
2. How long does it take before I see results from red light therapy for long covid?
The time it takes to see results varies from person to person. Many users experience improved energy levels, reduced pain, and improved mobility after several weeks of consistent use of red light therapy. However, it may take several weeks to see the full benefits, as the body needs time to respond to the therapy.
3. Is red light therapy safe?
Yes, red light therapy is generally safe when used according to recommended guidelines. It is a non-invasive treatment that has little to no side effects. However, it is always wise to start with a lower intensity and duration to see how your body responds. Make sure you use a high-quality device that meets safety standards, such as Nuvibody devices, which are 3rd party tested and CE certified.
4. Can I use red light therapy in combination with other treatments for long covid?
Yes, red light therapy can often be safely combined with other treatments for long covid, such as medication or physical therapy. It is a complementary therapy that can support the action of other treatments by promoting the healing process at the cellular level. It is always a good idea to consult your doctor before adding new therapies to your treatment plan.
5. How do I know if my device has the correct intensity and wavelength?
High-quality devices, such as the Nuvibody lights, are designed to deliver the correct wavelength and intensity needed for effective red light therapy. Make sure you choose a device that meets the wavelength requirements (between 630 and 850 nm) and has sufficient intensity for your treatment goals. Devices that are CE certified and 3rd party tested provide the assurance that they meet safety and performance standards.
6. How can I start red light therapy for long covid?
To get started with red light therapy, choose a quality device that is tailored to your needs. Start with short sessions of 5-10 minutes at a time, 3-5 times per week, and increase the duration of the sessions as your body adjusts. It is important to be consistent and patient, as benefits often become apparent after a few weeks. Consider using a Nuvibody device for the best results and reliable support during your recovery.
