Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain, muscle aches and exhaustion. Among its many other symptoms are sleep disturbances, brain fog and digestive issues. Since there is no cure for fibromyalgia, treatment is designed to handle its symptoms. Light therapy, the use of natural light, has been used to treat other conditions such as depression and seasonal affective disorder and it can also be used for people with fibromyalgia as well.
Light Therapy
Light therapy functions by sending natural light to the body, which in turn releases hormones that help with healing. People with fibromyalgia can benefit from light therapy since it helps with depression, exhaustion, insomnia and muscle aches.
The most common form of light therapy is called bright light therapy. Those who practice light therapy believe the body operates based on circadian rhythms, cycles that control sleep, energy and mood and are based on the amount of light the body receives.
When undergoing light therapy, you will be using powerful fluorescent lights that restore your circadian rhythms. People who undergo light therapy will use what is known as a light box. Inside this box are 10 or more full-spectrum light bulbs. You will sit near the box for the duration of the session, which can last from 15 minutes to three hours. During the session, you are allowed to engage in whatever activity you like, as long as you remain seated in front of the box.
Other Forms
Two other forms of light therapy include color light therapy and low-light laser therapy. Color light therapy uses colored light, which is converted into electrical impulses that allows the brain to reduce serotonin and endorphins. The release of these hormones helps ease pain and elevate your mood. Color therapy sessions tend to last 15 minutes to an hour.
Low-light laser therapy, also known as cold light therapy, applies low-light laser beams directly to problem areas of the body. Your cells absorb the photons emitted by the lasers, which are then converted into energy. This energy helps promote faster healing and reduces pain. Low-light laser therapy sessions generally last 15 to 20 minutes.
Warnings
Though light therapy is well-tolerated, its most common side effects include eye and skin irritation. Some people also feel nauseous during or after their first few sessions. Session times may have to be reduced if you feel anxious or overstimulated. Light therapy is not recommended for people with eye problems like glaucoma, people with sensitive skin or those with epilepsy.
Tags: light therapy, laser therapy, circadian rhythms, converted into, last minutes, light body, Light therapy
