Infrared Light Therapy & Ice Baths: Do They Really Help with Joint Pain?
Chronic joint pain can make everyday activities feel like a challenge. If you’ve been searching for natural ways to ease discomfort without relying on surgery or medications, you’ve probably seen people on Instagram and TikTok sitting in front of red lights or plunging into ice baths. But do these trendy therapies actually work?
What Is Infrared Light Therapy?
Infrared light therapy (also called red light therapy) is a treatment that uses low-level wavelengths of light to promote healing and reduce inflammation. Unlike regular light bulbs, infrared light can penetrate deep into your skin and reach the cells in your muscles and joints.
How Does It Work?
Red light therapy stimulates the mitochondria—the powerhouse of your cells—helping them produce more energy. This increased energy can:
Reduce inflammation in the joints
Promote faster tissue repair
Improve circulation
Can It Help with Chronic Joint Pain?
Many people turn to infrared light therapy for relief from conditions such as:
Osteoarthritis – Studies suggest it may reduce pain and stiffness in arthritic joints.
Rheumatoid Arthritis – Some research shows it can help reduce inflammation.
Fibromyalgia – Patients report decreased muscle and joint pain after regular use.
Infrared therapy is safe, non-invasive, and easy to use at home. You may have seen people sitting in front of red lights to get the benefits—and while this can be effective, professional-grade treatments (like those offered in our office) may provide even better results.
At Active Spine and Joint Institute, we integrate infrared light therapy with our Cold Laser Therapy, which works on a similar principle to reduce inflammation and promote healing at a cellular level. This combination can be even more effective for chronic pain relief.
What About Ice Baths?
Cold plunges, or ice baths, involve submerging your body in cold water (usually between 50-59°F) for a short period of time. Athletes have used this technique for years to help recover after intense workouts, but it’s also gaining popularity for managing chronic pain.
How Does It Work?
When you expose your body to cold temperatures, your blood vessels constrict, reducing swelling and numbing pain. Once you get out of the ice bath, your blood vessels expand again, flushing out toxins and promoting circulation.
Can It Help with Chronic Joint Pain?
Cold water immersion may be beneficial for:
Arthritis – Helps reduce swelling and stiffness.
Tendonitis – Eases pain by calming inflammation.
Gout – Can provide temporary relief from flare-ups.
However, ice baths aren’t for everyone. If you have circulation issues or certain medical conditions, you should talk to a doctor before trying them.
At our office, we take a more controlled and targeted approach to inflammation reduction through Spinal Decompression, Regenerative Cell Therapy, and Chiropractic Adjustments. These treatments not only relieve pain but also help improve mobility and overall joint health without the discomfort of ice baths.
Should You Try These Therapies?
Both infrared light therapy and ice baths have promising benefits for chronic joint pain, but the right choice depends on your specific condition and comfort level. Some people find the best results by combining both therapies—using red light therapy to stimulate healing and ice baths to control inflammation.
At Active Spine and Joint Institute, we believe in natural, non-surgical solutions for pain relief. We specialize in Cold Laser Therapy, Spinal Decompression, Regenerative Cell Therapy, and Chiropractic Adjustments to provide comprehensive and effective treatment plans tailored to your needs. If you’re interested in trying infrared light therapy or learning about other cutting-edge treatments, we’re here to help.
Call Today to Get Pain-Free! 📞 609-886-8585 | 🌐 www.activesj.com
