Red Light Therapy for Chronic Illness | Gentle Inflammation Support
When you live with a complex chronic illness, you know that even "gentle" treatments can sometimes feel too much. That’s why at Connective Wellness, we’re intentional about offering therapies that support healing without overwhelm, and red light therapy is one of our favorite tools.
This non-invasive, pain-free therapy uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and help regulate the nervous system. For individuals with EDS, POTS, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and more, it offers a calming, low-barrier option to support healing from the inside out.
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy (RLT) also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation, uses red and near-infrared light to stimulate mitochondrial activity in cells. That means it can help cells produce more energy (ATP), reduce oxidative stress, and promote repair.
It’s used widely in both functional medicine and dermatology for its benefits in:
Reducing inflammation
Easing joint and muscle pain
Supporting skin health and wound healing
Calming the nervous system
Enhancing circulation
Improving sleep and mood
At Connective Wellness, we’ve seen it benefit many patients who need restorative care, not just more stimulation.
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
The key lies in light wavelengths, particularly those between 600–850 nanometers. These wavelengths penetrate the skin and interact with the mitochondria (the “powerhouse” of your cells), encouraging:
Increased cellular energy (ATP)
Improved circulation and oxygen flow
Reduced oxidative stress
Support for inflammation pathways
And because it’s non-thermal (it doesn’t produce heat), it’s especially helpful for those who are heat-sensitive, reactive, or managing dysautonomia.
Who Might Benefit from Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy may be especially helpful for those navigating:
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) – supports tissue repair and joint inflammation
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) – gently supports circulation and autonomic balance
Fibromyalgia and ME/CFS – may reduce pain and improve mitochondrial function
MCAS or Histamine Sensitivity – non-chemical, low-input support that doesn’t aggravate mast cells
Chronic pain – reduces inflammation without pressure or touch
Anxiety and sleep issues – helps regulate circadian rhythm and vagus nerve tone
And unlike many treatments, it’s passive: you just relax while your body receives support.
What to Expect in a Session
Red light therapy sessions at Connective Wellness are:
Comfortable and calming many patients report feeling relaxed afterward
Quick sessions typically last 15–30 minutes
Accessible you stay fully clothed and seated or reclined
Customizable we adjust positioning and exposure based on your needs
Most patients don’t feel anything during the session, but many report feeling more grounded, less inflamed, or clearer-headed afterward.
Complementary Therapies
Red light therapy pairs beautifully with:
Craniosacral therapy to deepen regulation
PT for hypermobility or fatigue to support recovery post-session
LDN or sauna use as part of a multi-modality inflammation strategy
Vagus nerve work or breathwork to reinforce downregulation
Our team often builds it into larger care plans for EDS, POTS, and chronic illness support.
Final Thoughts
Red light therapy isn’t a magic fix, but for many patients, it’s a safe, soothing, and powerful tool that supports healing without pushing the body into stress. When you’ve lived with pain, fatigue, or dysregulation for years, having something that actually feels good can be a turning point.
At Connective Wellness, we’re proud to offer therapies that support the whole person, gently, thoughtfully, and at your pace.
Ready to Try Red Light Therapy?
Let’s build a care plan that supports your body without overstimulating it.
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📍 Amherst, NH | In-person & virtual options available
