Red & Near Infrared for Nerve Regeneration
How It Works
Nerve damage, whether from injury, surgery, or chronic conditions such as neuropathy, presents a major challenge for recovery because nerve tissue heals much more slowly than other tissues. Traditional medical treatments often focus on pain management rather than repair, but emerging evidence suggests that photobiomodulation (PBM) using red and near-infrared (NIR) light can play an important role in promoting nerve regeneration.
At the cellular level, red (630–660 nm) and near-infrared (810–850 nm) light are absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase within the mitochondrial respiratory chain. This stimulates ATP production, which provides energy necessary for neuronal repair and axonal regrowth. More available energy allows damaged nerve cells to synthesize proteins and structural components essential for nerve regeneration. Research in Neuroscience Letters and Journal of Neurotrauma has demonstrated that PBM enhances both axon sprouting and myelin repair, critical for restoring nerve function (NIH).
Another mechanism involves reduction of oxidative stress. Nerve injury often leads to high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which damage neurons further. By improving mitochondrial efficiency, red and NIR light reduce ROS levels, helping to create a more favorable environment for healing. Additionally, PBM has been shown to upregulate neurotrophic factors, such as nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which directly support neuronal survival and regeneration (NIH).
Blood flow improvement also plays a role. NIR penetrates deeply into tissues, including peripheral nerves and even into deeper structures such as the spinal cord in animal models. This increased circulation delivers oxygen and nutrients to regenerating nerves while removing metabolic waste products that can impede recovery. A study in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine demonstrated that PBM significantly accelerated functional recovery in animal models of peripheral nerve injury, with observable improvements in conduction velocity and nerve fiber density (NIH).
Clinically, patients with peripheral neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome, and post-surgical nerve damage have shown meaningful improvements in pain reduction, sensory recovery, and functional outcomes when treated with red and NIR therapy. Many report decreased numbness and tingling, improved muscle activation, and better overall quality of life.
It’s important to note that nerve healing is slow and often requires weeks to months of consistent treatment. While red and NIR therapy cannot instantly restore lost nerve function, it appears to support and accelerate the body’s natural regenerative processes. Combined with physical therapy, good nutrition, and medical supervision, light therapy can be a valuable component of a comprehensive recovery plan.
Protocol (Kivo Elite Panel – Nerve Regeneration)
- Treatment length: Minimum 8–12 weeks, longer for chronic or severe nerve injuries
- Wavelength: Red + Near-Infrared
- Brightness: Level 5
- Pulse: 40 Hz (supports neurostimulation and repair) if your Kivo Panel supports pulse modes
- Duration: 15–20 minutes per affected area
- Frequency: 5–7x/week, with 1 day off.