Top 8 Medical Ways Phototherapy Can Be Used
The internet offers a myriad of information about how to deal with any illness, whether t’s mental or physical. However, light therapy, also known as phototherapy, has been known as a solution for many health issues.
Phototherapy is a great treatment for many mental and physical problems. It’s affordable and usually reliable since it’s known to be very safe and non-invasive.
The internet is full of information about the benefits of light therapy, but common questions are still:
- How does phototherapy work?
- How safe is it?
- How long will treatments and results last?
The following is a summary of the many benefits of phototherapy, which we hope will answer many of your questions and help you understand much more about why we find this treatment very effective.
Medical Uses Phototherapy Could Be Used for:
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Many medical professionals use phototherapy to help treat patients who suffer from a common depression usually by a lack of sunshine (in areas with very little sunlight), called SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder. Phototherapy in these cases is all about exposing a person to the right amount of light, causing a chemical reaction in the brain to change the person’s mood.
Headaches and Migraines
A surprising outcome of phototherapy treatments involve a reduction in headaches and migraines. Dr. Pinessi from Torino University, Italy, “believes that bright light may elevate brain concentrations of several neurotransmitters, including serotonin.”
After a study at the 12th Migraine Trust International Symposium, Dr. Pinessi and his colleagues found that seven out of nine patients who had frequent migraines, had a reduction in migraine attacks after phototherapy treatments.
Jaundice
Jaundice is common for infants and small children. Most hospitals have phototherapy beds especially made to fit a newborn, because this condition is so common.
Imagine how sensitive a baby is to everything after they’re born. Phototherapy is so safe that it’s actually recommended! Phototherapy uses wavelengths of light to reduce bilirubin, which is what causes jaundice.
Acne and Scars
Phototherapy is very effective in helping to reduce the bacteria that causes acne. In fact, depending on the wavelengths of light, it can be very helpful in reducing scars caused by acne.
Anti-Aging and Rejuvenation
Let’s face it, aging is an inevitable process. We will all endure it. Collagen and the many wonderful cells that help keep our skin elastic will eventually start to work against us.
People can take vitamins, have botox, and sometimes even go to the extreme with plastic surgery, just to look a few years younger. However, nothing does the job the most natural way, like phototherapy can.
Red light therapy is the common color to use to reduce wrinkles and sometimes even age spots. It penetrates as far down into the subcutaneous layer of the skin, but does so without causing pain and being invasive.
Fatigue and Anxiety
Workaholics and busy individuals often feel fatigue and anxiety, because they have less time to take care of their health. With reduced sleep and inability to eat healthier on a more regular basis, sleep disorders and nervous breakdowns can be common.
Phototherapy can create a relaxing moment, while triggering overworked nerves.
Bruises and Injuries
Sports medicine commonly uses phototherapy to treat injured athletes. Bruises are very common with any sport and phototherapy is a great solution for speeding up the healing process.
Psoriasis, Eczema, Rosacea, Vitiligo, and more targeted skin conditions
Targeted phototherapy is a more intense treatment that uses ultraviolet radiation to treat many autoimmune skin conditions. Targeted phototherapy allows treatment for specific areas so that areas that are not infected, will not have to be exposed to ultraviolet radiation.
Light therapy has been a natural treatment for generations. Understanding its benefits and embracing the possibilities can help reduce ailments and improve many health conditions.