11/02/2021
Today's video is on "Power Density". How much light does your device deliver? This is a VERY important topic! (Please note that when I'm talking about this I'm assuming that light would be used directly against the skin and am also demonstrating this concept with regular old flashlights, not specifically light therapy devices)
Reputable light therapy devices use high-quality components and measure the output of the device so you know exactly what you are getting. Based on the power density of the device, the manufacturer should also inform you how long to use their device. Reputable manufacturers will freely give you this information and often have it tested by an independent source.
If you have an underpowered device, it may take you an unrealistically long session (ex. 45 minutes) to achieve an appropriate dose in order to have a positive effect on the body. Since you probably aren't going to use it for 45 minutes daily (or even a few times a week), you won't see results. This is why some inexpensive devices don't seem to work. They just didn't deliver enough light during the amount of time you used them in one session. Even worse, some products convey how much power (energy) they consume vs how much power (light) they put out. Buyer beware!
This is why I highly recommend reputable manufacturers who have had their devices independently tested over Amazon and Alibaba retailers. Many inexpensive lights you see there have a very low power density and often times the quality control on the color of the LED will vary greatly.
Yes, it will cost you more to get a quality product, but nothing is worse than wasting your time and money on a product that doesn't do what it claims. These poorly built devices sometimes give light therapy a bad name when they don't deliver on their promises.
If you are going to use or purchase a light therapy device, you want to know how long to use it to achieve optimal results. For example, when using the Photonic Therapy Institute Red+ torch for photobiomodulation (ex. pain relief), it is recommended to use it for 1-2 minutes.
Here is the data they are using (Red+ Torch on High):
167 mW/cm2 x 60 seconds = 10.2 J/cm2.
If you use it for an additional minute that doubles to 20.4 J/cm2.
(Note that many studies have had success around the 10-20 J/cm2 range, but the research still continues).
To check out the PTI torches that I use and find other vetted and reputable light therapy products, visit www.lightupyourgame.com
If you would like to learn more about light therapy, I personally invite you to sign up for free weekly office hours at https://dr336.isrefer.com/go/OH/a185/
Next week I'll be explaining more about how lasers, torches, and pad-based systems deliver light to the body. There will be more information on dosage (the math listed above) in two weeks. Stay tuned and be sure to like my page so you don't miss out!
