Red light therapy has moved from elite recovery rooms into everyday wellness, and for good reason. At The Spine and Wellness Center in Coral Springs, we offer this gentle, drug-free treatment to patients across Coral Springs and Parkland who want to ease pain, calm inflammation and recover faster. Here’s a clear explanation of how it works and who it can help.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Jared Cohen, DC · Updated June 2026

What is red light therapy?

Red light therapy, also called photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate the body’s own healing processes. The light is delivered through panels or pads placed near the skin during a comfortable, painless session. You can explore the service in detail on our Red Light Therapy page.

Unlike a heat lamp, red light therapy doesn’t rely on warming the tissue. Instead, the light energy is absorbed by your cells, where it goes to work at a microscopic level.

How it works at the cellular level

Inside nearly every cell are mitochondria, the structures that produce energy in the form of a molecule called ATP. Red and near-infrared light are absorbed by the mitochondria and may help them produce energy more efficiently. With more cellular energy available, tissues can repair, reduce inflammation, and function better. This is why red light is studied for everything from sore muscles to stubborn skin concerns.

Different wavelengths reach different depths. Visible red light tends to work closer to the skin’s surface, making it useful for skin tone and superficial healing, while near-infrared light penetrates deeper to reach muscles and joints. By combining wavelengths, a session can support healing at multiple levels at once. Because the light works with your body’s own biology rather than introducing a drug, it tends to be very well tolerated.

Evidence-based benefits

• Reduced muscle and joint pain
• Lower inflammation and swelling
• Faster recovery after workouts or injury
• Improved skin tone, texture and healing
• Support for circulation and tissue repair
• A calming, non-invasive treatment with no downtime

Pain and inflammation relief

Research suggests red light therapy can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation, which makes it a natural companion to chiropractic care. We often use red light for pain and healing to support patients recovering from back pain, neck strain, sports injuries and post-exercise soreness. Because it’s drug-free and non-invasive, it fits well into a conservative care plan.

Help for arthritis and stiff joints

Patients living with arthritis often look for relief that doesn’t rely on medication. Many find that red light therapy for arthritis helps ease joint stiffness and discomfort so they can move more comfortably. While red light does not cure arthritis, it can be a valuable part of a broader plan to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Benefits for skin and recovery

Red light is also studied for skin health. Because it supports collagen activity and tissue repair, many people use it to improve skin tone and texture and to support healing. Athletes and active adults across Coral Springs, Parkland and Coconut Creek often add red light to their routine to bounce back faster between training sessions.

What a session is like

A red light session is simple and relaxing. You’ll sit or lie comfortably while the light is positioned over the target area, typically for several minutes. There are no needles, no medication and no recovery time, so you can return to your day immediately. Most patients describe it as soothing, and many combine it with other therapies during the same visit.

Who benefits most from red light therapy?

• People with chronic or recurring muscle and joint pain
• Athletes wanting faster recovery
• Patients managing arthritis or stiffness
• Anyone seeking a drug-free, non-invasive option
• Those looking to support skin health and healing