For many athletes and people who exercise, light therapy treatments are an essential part of their training and recovery routine. If you’re using light therapy for physical performance and muscle recovery benefits, make sure to do it consistently, and in conjunction with your workouts. Some users report energy and performance benefits when they use light therapy before physical activity. Others find that post-exercise light therapy helps improve pain and recovery. [1] Either or both can be beneficial, but the key is still consistency. So make sure to use light therapy alongside every workout for the best results! [2,3]
Conclusion: Consistent, Daily Light Therapy is Optimal
There are many different light therapy products and reasons to use light therapy. But in general, the key to seeing results is to use light therapy as consistently as possible. Ideally every day, or 2-3 times per day for specific problem spots like cold sores or other skin conditions.
Sources and References:
[1] Vanin AA, et al. What is the best moment to apply phototherapy when associated to a strength training program? A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial : Phototherapy in association to strength training. Lasers in Medical Science. 2016 Nov.
[2] Leal Junior E., Lopes-Martins R., et al. “Effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in the development of exercise-induced skeletal muscle fatigue and changes in biochemical markers related to postexercise recovery”. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2010 Aug.
[3] Douris P., Southard V., Ferrigi R., Grauer J., Katz D., Nascimento C., Podbielski P. “Effect of Phototherapy on delayed onset muscle soreness”. Photomed Laser Surg. 2006 June.