If you're managing chronic pain with over-the-counter or prescription medications, you're not alone. But many Hillsdale residents are looking for alternatives that address the root cause of pain rather than masking symptoms. Red light therapy is one option worth considering.
How Pain Medication Works
Most pain medications work by either blocking pain signals (like NSAIDs and acetaminophen) or altering how your brain perceives pain (like opioids). While effective for short-term relief, these approaches share a common limitation: they don't fix what's actually causing the pain.
Long-term use of pain medications can also come with side effects:
- Stomach and digestive issues from NSAIDs
- Liver concerns with prolonged acetaminophen use
- Dependency risks with prescription pain relievers
- Diminishing effectiveness as the body builds tolerance
How Red Light Therapy Works Differently
Red light therapy takes a fundamentally different approach. Instead of blocking pain signals, it works at the cellular level to promote actual healing:
- Stimulates cellular energy (ATP) production, giving your cells the fuel they need to repair damaged tissue
- Reduces inflammation by modulating inflammatory pathways at the source
- Improves blood flow to bring oxygen and nutrients to injured areas
- Promotes collagen synthesis for tissue and joint repair
The goal is to help your body heal the underlying problem, not just cover up the symptom.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Red Light Therapy | Pain Medication | |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Promotes cellular healing | Masks pain signals |
| Side Effects | None reported | Stomach, liver, dependency risks |
| Drug-Free | Yes | No |
| Long-Term Use | Safe for ongoing use | Risks increase over time |
| Addresses Root Cause | Yes | No |
Who Is Red Light Therapy a Good Fit For?
Red light therapy may be a good option for Hillsdale residents who:
- Want to reduce their reliance on pain medications
- Have chronic pain that hasn't responded well to medication alone
- Prefer a natural, drug-free approach to pain management
- Are looking for something to complement their chiropractic care
- Want to address inflammation rather than just symptoms
An Affordable Option in Hillsdale
At Knapp Chiropractic Center, red light therapy sessions are $30 standalone or $15 when added to a chiropractic adjustment. Compare that to the ongoing cost of prescription medications and the hidden costs of their side effects, and many patients find it to be a practical alternative.
Explore a Drug-Free Path to Pain Relief
Curious whether red light therapy could work for your pain? Call Knapp Chiropractic at (517) 437-4767 or request an appointment online to discuss your options with our doctors.