January 1, 2026
Far-infrared light therapy, also called photobiomodulation, uses a safe form of light energy to gently warm the body and support natural biological processes. This light is part of the infrared spectrum and is naturally present in sunlight, but it is different from ultraviolet (UV) light and does not cause skin damage or DNA harm.
During treatment, infrared light is absorbed by the body and experienced as a comfortable warmth. Research published in peer-reviewed medical journals shows that this type of light can interact with cells—particularly the mitochondria, which help produce cellular energy. These interactions may support circulation, tissue health, and normal cellular function without exposing patients to harmful radiation.
Far-infrared light therapy is non-invasive, does not involve needles or medications, and is generally well tolerated when used as directed.
Potential Benefits of Infrared Light Therapy
Based on evidence from peer-reviewed research
-
Pain Relief for Muscles, Joints, and Nerves
Infrared photobiomodulation has been shown to influence pain and tissue function in musculoskeletal conditions, supporting pain reduction as an adjunct to other treatments. PubMed -
May Improve Circulation
Near-infrared wavelengths promote blood vessel dilation and improved blood flow, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues—an important factor in healing. -
May Reduce Inflammation
Clinical research indicates that photobiomodulation can downregulate pro-inflammatory signaling molecules and support the body’s inflammatory response. -
Supports Healing of Chronic Wounds
Infrared and near-infrared photobiomodulation have been associated with enhanced wound healing in clinical settings, including difficult-to-heal soft tissue injuries. PMC -
May Alleviate Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Systematic reviews suggest photobiomodulation may reduce pain and fatigue severity in some people with fibromyalgia. MDPI -
May Improve Sleep Quality
Emerging research points to photobiomodulation helping regulate sleep-related physiology, potentially improving subjective sleep quality. Sleep Medicine Resource -
May Support Recovery from Injury
Studies show near-infrared light can reduce symptoms and accelerate functional recovery in certain musculoskeletal injury types. PMC -
May Support Nervous System Function
Research into photobiomodulation for neurodegenerative conditions and nerve function suggests mitochondrial and cellular effects that may benefit nerve health and cognitive outcomes. SpringerLink -
May Support Immune-Related Processes
By enhancing cellular energy and circulation, infrared light may indirectly support immune system activity, though high-quality clinical evidence is still developing. PubMed -
Non-Invasive, Generally Well Tolerated
Photobiomodulation uses non-ionizing light (red to near-infrared wavelengths) that does not cause DNA damage like UV radiation; it is typically used as a complementary therapy. PubMed
Important Notes for Patients
- Many of the benefits above are described as “may” because clinical evidence ranges from preliminary to moderate and varies by condition.
- Research quality and certainty differ across health outcomes; some benefits (e.g., wound healing and musculoskeletal pain relief) have stronger support than others. PMC
- Infrared light therapy is not a substitute for medical treatment for serious conditions but may be considered as part of a comprehensive care plan when recommended by a healthcare provider.
How we use far-infrared therapy here at Sadhana Health
Here at our integrative clinic in Santa Monica, CA we incorporate infrared therapy in two different ways.
We have infrared mineral lamps that incorporate a “plate” which is coated in minerals that are activated by heat. When these minerals are activated, the plate emits far infrared waves that penetrate deeply into targeted areas of the body to promote healing and reduce pain.
Our founder Heather S. uses far-infrared therapy in all of her treatment sessions through the use of an infrared therapy mat called a BIOMAT®. Setting the global standard, BIOMAT® was the first company to bring this Class II medical device technology to the market over 25 years ago. Combining far infrared technology, amethyst & tourmaline crystals to amplify the infrared waves, and negative ion therapy, using a BIOMAT® enhances each treatment session to promote whole body healing.
Far-infrared therapy is primarily utilized during our “stand-alone” manual therapy appointments as there often isn’t enough time during your physical therapy appointment (you are usually strength training in the gym to rehab that injured shoulder). If you are interested in adding far-infrared therapy into your next appointment, please let your provider know.
Disclaimer: Sadhana Health and its representatives are not affiliated with BIOMAT®. We just love their product!