Light therapy: healing through special light sources

Light therapy: healing through special light sources

in a world in which traditional treatment methods often reach their limits, light therapy is increasingly becoming the focus of medical research and practice. This innovative form of treatment, which has the potential to support and accelerate healing processes through the use of special light sources, is based on well -founded scientific knowledge. From the relief of seasonal depression to the treatment of certain skin diseases - light therapy opens new doors for therapists and patients alike. But which light sources are most efficient for which areas of application? And how can these findings be put into practice in order to achieve optimal healing results? This article illuminates the basics of light therapy, compares the efficiency of different light sources in therapeutic use and gives practical recommendations. Dive with us into the fascinating world of light therapy and discover the healing power that is in special light sources.

Foundations of light therapy: Scientific knowledge and areas of application

light therapy, also known as phototherapy, uses specific wavelengths of light to treat various medical and psychological conditions. The application is based on the realization that light, especially natural sunlight, has significant effects on the human body. It influences biological processes and can be used to treat disorders such as seasonally dependent depression (SAD), certain skin diseases such as psoriasis, acne, eczema and sleep phase syndrome.

A central function of light therapy is the regulation of the melatonin level, a hormone that influences sleep patterns. Light, especially blue wavelength light, suppresses melatonin synthesis and can thus influence the circadian rhythm of the body. When treating SAD, for example, patients are recommended to undergo light therapy in the morning to normalize the circadian rhythm and to reduce the symptoms of depression.

Light therapy for skin diseases is based on a different mechanics. UV light, especially UVA and UVB, has a therapeutic effect on skin cells. With psoriasis, for example, UV light helps to reduce excessive cell production and inflammation. UVA light is often used in combination with medication that makes the skin more sensitive, treatment that is known as Puva therapy.

The efficiency of light therapy is determined by the wavelength of the light and the duration of the exposure. It is important to choose the right spectrum for specific treatment. For example, light with an intensity of 10,000 lux is often used for the treatment of SAD, while specific UV areas are used in skin therapy.

Further research examine the use of light therapy in the treatment of cognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer's. Early studies indicate that light therapy can have positive effects on sleep, mood and behavior of the patients, although more extensive research Ainda is necessary for a sound confirmation.

In addition to clinical applications, light therapy is also used in improving general well-being, regulating the sleep-wake rhythm and improving the mood. The broad applicability and low side effect rate make light therapy a promising method in modern therapy.

efficiency of different light sources in therapeutic application: a comparative analysis

The therapeutic use of light includes different light sources, the efficiency of which varies based on the spectrum, intensity and exposure period. The frequently used light sources include the LED (light -emitting diode), the halogen lamp, the fluorescent lamp and laser therapy. Each of these light sources has specific wavelengths and intensities that are suitable for various therapeutic applications.

LED light therapy is estimated due to its long service life, low energy consumption and the ability to emit specific wavelengths. LED light is mainly used in the treatment of acne, skin aging and seasonally related affective disorders (SAD). The efficiency of LED light in the therapeutic context is due to its ability to use certain wavelengths for penetration at different skin depths.

fluorescent lamps offer a wide range of wavelengths and are therefore often used in general lighting and for the treatment of SAD. However, their wide wavelength cover does not allow targeted therapy, as is the case with LEDs and lasers.

laser therapy , known for your precision, uses closely bundled light of a specific wavelength. This concentration enables deep penetration into the tissue, which makes it ideal for wound healing and anti -inflammatory treatments. Compared to other light sources, the laser allows targeted and deeper treatment of tissue damage or inflammation.

The selection of the light source depends heavily on the specific application. With their wavelength precision and penetration depths, LED and lasers offer a better selection for targeted therapies. Luminums and halogen lamps are suitable for wider areas of application, where a specific wavelength precision is less critical. The efficiency of the light source in therapeutic application is not only due to the type of light source, but also due to the correct dose, duration of treatment and the specific wavelength that is required for the respective treatment.

recommendations for practice: Selection and use of special light sources for optimal healing results

The selection and correct use of different light sources can contribute significantly to the efficiency of light therapies. It is important to use specific wavelengths, performance strengths and exposure times, which should be adapted depending on the therapy goal and the clinical picture. The following aspects must be taken into account when choosing light sources for therapeutic purposes:

• wavelength range: determined dermatoses, for example, react better to narrow UVB (311 Nm), while for vitamin D synthesis, UVB in the wider spectrum of 280 to 320 Nm is more effective. In photodynamic therapy, light sources with a wavelength range between 630 and 700 Nm are often preferred to ensure a maximum absorption by the photosensitis.
• intensity and dose: The required intensity and dose of light depends on the treatment goal. A higher intensity can shorten the duration of treatment, but also carries a higher risk of side effects.
• homogeneity of exposure: even radiation of the target tissue is important in order to achieve a uniform effect and to avoid uneven results or damage to the surrounding healthy tissue.

The decision for a light source should therefore be made not only because of the primary wavelength, but also taking into account their spectral purity and other properties such as the ability to generate continuous or pulsed light emissions.

When using light therapy devices, it is also necessary to ensure that the device to be treated correctly must be ensured correctly. An individually coordinated therapy duration and intensity based on the specific clinical picture and the patient's skin type is crucial for the safety and effectiveness of treatment.

sources and further reading

references

• Wunsch, A., & Matuschka, K. (2014). A new method of light therapy in dermatology: photodynamic therapy. skin , 3, 112-117.
• Schneider, S., & Rodenbeck, A. (2018). The effect of light light on the sleep-wake rhythm. somnology , 22 (2), 104-110.
• Hattar, S., Liao, H. W., Takao, M., Berson, D. M., & Yau, K. W. (2002). Melanopsin-Containing Retinal Ganglion Cells: Architecture, Projects, and Intrinsic Photosensitivity. science , 295 (5557), 1065-1070.

Scientific studies

• Gerner, E. T., & Hapfelmeier, G. (2016). Effectiveness of blue light therapy for seasonally dependent depression. German Ärzteblatt International , 113 (7), 110-116.
• Meesters, Y., Dekker, V., Schlangen, L. J. M., BOS, E. H., & Ruiter, M. J. H. (2011). The effects of low-intensity Narrow-band Blue-Light Treatment Compared to Bright White-Light Treatment in Seasonal Affective Disorder. Journal of Affective Disorders , 136 (1), 72-78.
• Nussbaumer, B., Kaminski-Hartenthaler, A., Forneris, C. A., Morgan, L. C., Sonis, J. H., Gaynes, B. N.,… & Gartlehner, G. (2015). Light therapy for the treatment of depression. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews , (11).

further literature

• esch, T., Stefano, G. B., Fricchione, G. L., & Benson, H. (2003). The Role of Stress in Neurodegenerative Diseases and Mental Disorders. neuroendocrinology letters , 24 (3-4), 199-208.
• Kripke, D.F., Elliott, J. A., Youngstedt, S. D., & Rex, K. M. (2007). Phototherapy for Nonseasonal Major Depressive Disorder. In: Lam, R. W. (ed.), Seasonal Affective Disorder and Beyond: Light Treatment for Sad and Non-Sad Conditions . American Psychiatric Publishing, Inc.
• Müller-Oerlinghausen, B., Berghöfer, A., & Bauer, M. (1997). Bipolar disorders: pathogenesis and therapy. clinic doctor , 26 (3), 72-82.