Dr. Mercer, Professor and Laser Safety Officer at Logan University, Talks Red Light Therapy.
Understanding Red Light Therapy: Insights from Dr. Dana Mercer
Red light therapy is a growing field within holistic and non-invasive treatment options, and it's generating a lot of excitement for its potential health benefits. Recently, Ron Po sat down with Dr. Dana Mercer, a professor at Logan University and laser safety officer, to discuss the practical applications of red light therapy and its effects. Dr. Mercer has been using Red Light Wellness equipment at the Steven Orthwein Center in St. Louis, Missouri, to help individuals with accessibility challenges, and she has experienced firsthand the positive impact of this technology.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy involves using red light and near-infrared light to penetrate the skin and interact with the mitochondria in cells, which can stimulate healing, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation. In contrast to laser therapy, which uses focused light energy, red light therapy typically employs light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to deliver light across a broader area. This approach provides what Dr. Mercer calls a "shower approach" to light therapy, spreading the treatment over a larger surface rather than focusing it on a pinpoint area.
According to Dr. Mercer, red light therapy has various therapeutic applications, including wound healing, neuropathy treatment, and even brain injuries like concussions. The broad coverage of red light therapy, compared to the focused power of lasers, makes it particularly beneficial for whole-body treatments.
The Science Behind Red and Near-Infrared Light
One aspect that makes Red Light Wellness equipment stand out is the combination of red light in the 600-nanometer range and near-infrared light in the 800-nanometer range. The red light is used to treat superficial areas and improve skin conditions through vasodilation and collagen production. Near-infrared light, on the other hand, penetrates more deeply into tissues, making it useful for conditions that require deeper cellular stimulation, such as muscle injuries and joint pain.
Dr. Mercer emphasizes that the different wavelengths have different depths of penetration and effects on the body. The mitochondria, often described as the powerhouse of the cell, respond to these light wavelengths by increasing their energy output. This increased energy, in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), boosts cellular repair processes, enhances circulation, and promotes healing.
Pulsing vs. Continuous Light: Which is Better?
A common question in red light therapy is whether pulsed or continuous light is more effective. Dr. Mercer explains that pulsing light can be beneficial for certain conditions, especially for avoiding heat buildup when using powerful lasers. However, she prefers continuous light for most treatments involving LEDs, as it allows for more efficient delivery of energy into tissues.
With pulsing, it can take longer to deliver the desired amount of energy (or "joules") to a target area, especially if the power is lower. Dr. Mercer likens this to a dripping faucet: pulsing energy slowly fills the "tank," while continuous wave light fills it much faster, leading to shorter treatment times and more effective outcomes.
Potential Benefits of Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy has shown promise in several health areas, including pain reduction, inflammation control, and improved circulation. Patients who use Red Light Wellness beds have experienced positive outcomes, such as reduced neuropathic pain, improved cognitive function, better sleep, and enhanced mood.
Dr. Mercer notes that patients at the Steven Orthwein Center have reported decreased symptoms of neuropathy, improved mood, and enhanced circulation. Some patients with conditions like depression or stroke have also noticed improvements. While much of the data is still being collected, preliminary outcomes suggest red light therapy may have wide-ranging benefits, even for individuals dealing with severe health issues.
An unexpected benefit mentioned by Ron Po is the cosmetic effect of using the therapy. Although red light beds do not provide the UV radiation associated with tanning, patients have reported that their skin appears healthier and more vibrant after treatment. The increased blood flow caused by the red light gives a natural flush, which can enhance the appearance of the skin without the harmful effects of UV radiation.
The Importance of Energy Output (Joules) in Red Light Therapy
One of the key factors that make Red Light Wellness beds unique is the energy output they provide. Dr. Mercer describes "joules" as the "juice" that powers healing, and she points out that the more joules a device delivers, the more effective it is at stimulating the body's natural healing mechanisms.
Red Light Wellness devices are designed to provide a high output of joules over a large surface area, making them effective for whole-body treatments. Unlike devices that operate on standard household outlets and deliver lower energy, the Red Light Wellness beds use a 50-amp breaker, providing the power needed to penetrate deeply and efficiently into tissues.
According to Dr. Mercer, many competitors' devices fall short of delivering the same power, which results in longer treatment times and less effective results. This is why the Red Light Wellness bed, with its high wattage and optimized LED configuration, stands out as one of the most powerful options available on the market today.
Applications in Cognitive Health and Neuropathy
Red light therapy is gaining recognition not only for physical health benefits but also for its potential to support cognitive health. Dr. Mercer explains that photobiomodulation (light therapy) is being explored for conditions like cognitive decline, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's. Research is ongoing, and early studies show promise that red light may help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life for those dealing with neurodegenerative conditions.
Additionally, Dr. Mercer mentioned the use of a neuropathy box, a smaller focused light therapy unit that is specifically targeted for individuals with neuropathic pain in the extremities. This box has been used successfully by patients to reduce pain, improve circulation, and in one particular case, even alleviate symptoms like brain fog. The mechanism behind this is thought to involve improved systemic circulation, as light-stimulated blood flow can carry benefits from treated areas, like the feet, back to the brain.
Whole-Body vs. Targeted Treatments
Dr. Mercer highlights the difference between whole-body treatments, such as the Red Light Wellness bed, and more targeted applications, like lasers or smaller LED devices. While targeted treatments are effective for concentrating energy on a specific area—for example, a wound or joint—the whole-body approach of the Red Light Wellness bed allows for comprehensive wellness benefits, as it treats the entire system simultaneously.
This holistic approach can be beneficial for individuals with multiple health concerns, as it provides a "global" boost to the body's systems. Dr. Mercer points out that, when using a whole-body bed, the treatment may not target one specific issue like a focused laser would, but it will generally improve overall energy, circulation, and systemic health, allowing the body to prioritize healing where it's needed most.
The Power of Photobiomodulation in Modern Healthcare
The versatility of photobiomodulation makes it suitable for a wide range of health conditions, from chronic pain and neuropathy to depression and immune system regulation. As Dr. Mercer mentions, the Steven Orthwein Center is currently conducting ongoing research to collect more concrete data on the effectiveness of the Red Light Wellness bed.
Early results are promising, with patients reporting improved outcomes, and the research aims to provide a clearer understanding of the science behind these observations. Many patients are enthusiastic about the benefits they are seeing, whether it's for better circulation, reduced neuropathic pain, or even weight loss—as Dr. Mercer herself has experienced.
Manufacturing Quality and Unique Features of Red Light Wellness Beds
The quality of the Red Light Wellness beds is another distinguishing factor in the industry. Unlike many competitors, Red Light Wellness beds are manufactured in the United States with high-quality materials, including steel construction for durability. The beds also feature unique design elements, such as a dedicated head and foot panel, to optimize full-body treatment.
These head and foot panels are particularly beneficial for targeting cognitive health, as the focused energy helps improve concentration and may reduce symptoms of cognitive decline. Dr. Mercer has noted improvements in patients' focus and mood after using the bed, and this is consistent with other research indicating that red light can positively impact brain function.
Commitment to Research and Continued Innovation
Ron Po and the Red Light Wellness team are committed to continuing innovation in the field of red light therapy. Current initiatives include exploring the effects of red light therapy on cancer cells at Washington University’s Barnes Hospital and expanding the therapeutic features of their products by integrating sound frequency therapy. These initiatives underline the commitment to evidence-based development and enhancing the overall therapeutic experience for users.
For Dr. Mercer, this dedication to innovation and high-quality manufacturing stands out. The reliability and efficiency of Red Light Wellness beds, combined with their powerful energy output, are among the reasons she endorses their use in clinical settings. Having a local manufacturer also means that support is readily available, which is a significant advantage for healthcare providers who rely on this technology.
Conclusion: The Future of Red Light Therapy
As more clinics and health professionals integrate photobiomodulation into their treatment offerings, the potential benefits for patients continue to grow. The future of red light therapy lies in its versatility and ability to support both physical and mental health.
Dr. Dana Mercer’s experience with Red Light Wellness has shown that high-quality, powerful red light devices can make a real difference in patient outcomes. Whether it’s for treating neuropathy, enhancing mood, reducing inflammation, or supporting cognitive health, red light therapy holds promise as an effective, non-invasive solution that promotes natural healing processes within the body.
Red Light Wellness is leading the way by providing cutting-edge, US-made devices that are built to last and designed to deliver superior therapeutic benefits. For those interested in learning more, visiting the Red Light Wellness website or scheduling a visit to their manufacturing facility in St. Louis, Missouri, is a great place to start—the company is open to sharing its passion for red light therapy and showing just how impactful this technology can be.
