Light has healing powers, which is a widely accepted fact. Moreover, light therapy devices are used in multiple clinical settings for the treatment of various ailments. For example, temporary muscle and joint relief. However, the benefits are more than just heating the areas affected to increase the flow of blood for the promotion of healing.
Research also reveals that light therapy can form nitric oxide, which can reduce pain sensations in the nerves. Though, this shouldn’t be confused with laughing gas nitrous oxide. That is completely different. Furthermore, light also slows down the conduction of pain signals in nerves. In addition, it also encourages endorphin production.
One of the main drawbacks of these devices is that light therapy is usually designed for clinical use. Moreover, the cost of these devices is thousands of dollars. However, a device known as LumiWave costs only 300 dollars with 50 LEDs in every four pods. The device also comes with a controller, which times the treatment for 20 or 30 minutes. Moreover, LumiWave was cleared by FDA in 2015. It comes under the category of class II medical device and is available for consumers.
I had the opportunity to try out a LumiWave. The device had a clearly noticeable warming effect. In my limited testing, I did not notice any discernible difference between light therapy and a standard heating pad, but I accept that there can be additional benefits from the light. The device was not always easy to use; the fact that it has to be plugged in limits your movement during a treatment session.
On the other hand, a battery pack with sufficient power for a half-hour session would add considerable weight and cost to the product. The device runs on 12 volts DC, however, so you should be able to rig your own power source if you’re so inclined.
LumiWave: Provides Localised Pain Relief
LumiWave helps in providing localized pain relief without the requirement or need for pharmaceuticals. Moreover, the prices are also reasonable for most. Especially considering the effort it takes to get clearance through FDA.
