What is red light therapy

How does near-infrared therapy work?

Photobiomodulation - the scientific basis of near-infrared therapy

Near-infrared therapy is not a short-lived health trend, but is based on photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), which has been used clinically for decades.

PBMT uses low-energy, non-thermal light (laser or LED) with defined wavelengths that acts purposefully on tissue to modulate cellular processes, support tissue regeneration and help ease inflammation and pain. In veterinary medicine, laser-based PBMT has long been recognised as an established physical therapy and is widely used in veterinary rehabilitation.

LED-based PBMT, meanwhile, has gained increasing scientific attention in recent years and shows clearly documented effects in clinical studies.

Cellular effects of near-infrared therapy

If you compare an animal's body to a car, the cells correspond to the vehicle's functional systems, the mitochondria to the engine and ATP (adenosine triphosphate) to the fuel that drives the vehicle - just as ATP supplies cells with the energy they need.

The more capable the mitochondria are and the more sufficient the ATP supply is, the better cells can carry out repair and metabolic processes. This gives the body more energy and supports health.

The role of near-infrared therapy is to improve the mitochondria's ability to produce and use ATP. In this way, it creates a basic condition for the body's recovery and regeneration.

Molecular mechanism of action of near-infrared therapy

Near-infrared therapy uses LED-based light sources to generate red or near-infrared light at defined wavelengths. This light acts on a central molecular target in the mitochondria: cytochrome c oxidase.

The light stimulus can modulate the activity of this enzyme, support electron transport in the mitochondria and thereby increase the efficiency of ATP production and use. At cellular level, this helps support repair processes, inflammation regulation and functional recovery.

Wavelengths and their effects

In red light therapy, different wavelengths determine how deeply light penetrates biological tissue and what its primary health-related effect is. Based on the tissue structure of dogs and cats, relevant health needs and safety considerations, we use a dual-wavelength concept with 808 nm and 850 nm near-infrared light.

808 nm acts primarily on muscles, tendons, ligaments and soft tissues close to the joints, making it suitable for supporting functional regeneration of the musculoskeletal system.

850 nm has higher tissue penetration, reaches deeper tissue layers and is particularly relevant for conditions such as osteoarthritis or neuritis.

The interaction of 808 nm and 850 nm near-infrared light supports cellular energy and repair processes at different tissue levels, promotes local microcirculation and may help ease chronic inflammatory states.

For a better everyday quality of life

Based on near-infrared therapy, OsteoVitalis was developed as a user-friendly supportive method for dogs and cats: with precisely coordinated light intensity, an animal-friendly fit and a concept designed for home use. Especially with chronic strain such as osteoarthritis, regular use may help reduce inflammation-related discomfort and pain, support mobility and noticeably strengthen everyday health, vitality and well-being.

Read the full article: What is near-infrared therapy?

Supportive effects of PBMT (photobiomodulation therapy)

Relief of tension and pain in muscles, tendons, ligaments and soft tissues, for example after sports injuries, protective posture or during post-operative recovery.

Relief of pain associated with arthritis, osteoarthritis and other degenerative joint conditions. The aim is to reduce stiffness and support mobility.

Support for the regeneration of nerve tissue and restoration of its function, especially in peripheral nerve damage or neurodegenerative changes.

Promotion of circulation and cellular regeneration, which are important for immune function and for overall health and vitality.

Learn more about PBMT

Clinical evidence for PBMT

Photobiomodulation therapy（PBMT） refers to the use of non-ionizing light sources — including lasers, LEDs, and broadband light — in the visible and infrared spectrum to produce therapeutic effects.

Anders, J. J., Lanzafame, R. J., & Arany, P. R. (2015). Low-level light/laser therapy versus photobiomodulation therapy. Photomedicine and laser surgery, 33(4), 183.

In dogs with naturally occurring elbow osteoarthritis treated with PBMT (10–20 J/cm²), PBMT significantly reduced pain scores and lameness and allowed a reduction in NSAID dose compared to placebo.

Looney, A. L., Huntingford, J. L., Blaeser, L. L., & Mann, S. (2018). A randomized blind placebo-controlled trial investigating the effects of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) on canine elbow osteoarthritis. The Canadian Veterinary Journal, 59(9), 959.

Photobiomodulation therapy（PBMT） has been shown to modulate inflammation, reduce pain, and promote tissue repair through the activation of cellular photoreceptors, leading to increased mitochondrial activity, modulation of reactive oxygen species, and changes in transcription factors involved in cell proliferation and survival.

Hamblin, M. R. (2017). Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. AIMS biophysics, 4(3), 337.

Absolute contraindications

Dogs and cats with tumours or malignant tumour disease
Dogs and cats with open wounds
Pregnant dogs and cats
Dogs and cats with oedema or haematoma
Dogs and cats with an implanted pacemaker or similar electronic medical device
Puppies and kittens whose skeleton is not yet fully developed and whose growth plates have not closed (usually under 12-18 months)