Muscle knots that hurt upon palpation and might also cause pain to radiate elsewhere could likely be myofascial trigger points. Hyperirritability in tight muscle bands is a frequent cause of pain felt in the neck, shoulders, jaws, and back. Many individuals seek out solutions that can help alleviate their discomfort without having to rely exclusively on pharmaceutical treatment and invasive approaches.
Red light therapy employs targeted wavelengths of light such as 630 nm or 660 nm red light and 850 nm or 940 nm near-infrared light to aid cells in producing energy and soothing irritated tissue. Studies have been conducted to assess its efficacy on myofascial pain and have provided information for at-home use alongside motion and professional intervention.
Is the Pain Coming From a Myofascial Trigger Point?
Myofascial trigger points are localized tender nodules that lie along the tight band of muscles. Compression leads to local pain while, at times, it refers to a certain predictable point. The muscle in which the trigger point exists may feel stiff and have limited range of movement, and weakness is also felt.
Myofascial trigger points develop due to overuse of a muscle, poor posture, injuries and stress-induced muscle guarding. The diagnosis is made through physical examination, not imaging and differentiation from joint, nerve irritation and muscle strain helps in choosing the right mode of treatment. Pain that appears to be progressive and sharp and associated with other symptoms needs evaluation by a qualified physician.
Studies have shown that myofascial trigger points are the cause of musculoskeletal pain in 30-85% of cases. The trigger points are either active (pain occurs spontaneously and the referral area is predictable) or latent (movement is restricted and there is pain only when compressed). The physical findings include a taut band, local twitch response and "jump sign." Pathogenesis includes abnormality in the motor end plate, excess secretion of acetylcholine, ischemia, inflammatory cytokines and central sensitization. Diagnosis is clinical, not radiographic. [1]
What Does Research Show About Light Therapy for Trigger Point Pain?
There are several systematic reviews and randomized trials investigating the use of LLLT and PBM in myofascial pain syndrome, particularly in the neck and trapezius muscles.
A meta-analysis conducted in 2022 based on 13 randomized controlled trials including more than 550 patients suffering from myofascial pain syndrome in the neck area has revealed that low-level laser therapy results in a significant improvement in pain intensity as compared to placebo treatments. Pressure pain threshold increased as well; the increase in the range of motion of the neck was observed in some patients. Disability scales have shown inconsistent changes.[2]
Another systematic review and meta-analysis devoted specifically to the upper trapezius area has demonstrated that PBM decreased pain and increased pressure pain threshold in that area. Larger effects were seen in the case of combining phototherapy with exercise than in the case of monotherapy.[3]
Researchers investigating the effect of light therapy on myofascial pain and jaw dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint have revealed a decrease in pain and an increase in mouth opening. The effect depends on wavelength, dose, and frequency of treatment sessions; however, not all studies report a significant prolonged effect beyond treatment periods.
Does Treatment Depth Change the Choice Between Red and Near Infrared Light?
The red wavelengths (approximately 630-660 nm) are absorbed more superficially and therefore are used for superficial sensitivity and nearby tissues. Infrared wavelengths (850 nm and 940 nm) penetrate further into the muscle tissue and are chosen when a deeper taut band needs to be treated.
It was proven in some comparative experiments that a more penetrating wavelength helps to treat myofascial pain syndromes better than shallow absorption since more energy is absorbed in the trigger point. Almost all modern devices, including Bestrewn ones, have diodes of both red and infrared light in their equipment to treat the superficial and deep layers of muscles during one procedure. [4]
Where Should Light Be Applied Around a Trigger Point?
Almost all protocols direct the light toward the palpable trigger point and the neighboring taut band. The sessions may usually take several minutes per trigger point, with the device positioned at the required distance recommended by the manufacturer. Treatment of the muscle in both resting state and gently lengthened state may help increase the patient’s comfort.
Broader application of light to the wider zone of the trigger point is generally helpful, as the pathology does not occur at only one nodule. Regularity is more important than sporadic high-intensity application of light therapy. Patients at home usually begin with 3 to 5 sessions per week depending on personal response and professional recommendations.
However, infrared therapy has proved its ability to reduce pain in musculoskeletal disorders, raise fibromyalgia scores, and give relief in conditions like osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and myofascial pain syndrome. [5]
How Can Manual Therapy, Movement, and Strengthening Support Results?
Photobiomodulation by itself does not address the issue of the movement and load factors keeping trigger points active, and the use of the two together leads to better results.
The use of gentle manual approaches such as sustained pressure or soft tissue mobilization can help decrease sensitivity. Controlled stretching restores the length of the contracted area. Strength training for the affected muscle and the surrounding muscles helps to solve the problem of weakness. Awareness of posture and resumption of regular activities prevent recurrence.
When photobiomodulation is applied to the exercise therapy program, results of meta-analyzes indicate that the effect on pain relief and pressure pain threshold is greater when compared with light therapy alone. Light makes it easier for a person to move and do exercises.
Pair Red Light Therapy With Active Care for Longer Lasting Relief.
Based on all the studies presented above, it can be assumed that both red and near-infrared light can help alleviate pain for a short time and make it possible to increase tenderness in areas affected by myofascial trigger points, especially in the cervical region and upper trapezius. The use of light therapy in combination with other treatments (manual therapy, stretching, and gradual muscle strengthening) appears to provide better results compared to the use of the technique alone.
Light therapy devices with the wavelengths tested in most of the studies (red – 630 nm or 660 nm; near-infrared – 850 nm or 940 nm) allow one to apply the method easily at home after getting proper clearance from a therapist. Take a look at the various Bestrewn products on Bestqool to get your personal equipment set.
Monitor your reaction during a few weeks and remember not to overdo things. Keep up with the activities aimed at addressing the triggers of myofascial trigger points.
Reference:
- iasppain.org.(2009-2010). Global Year Against Musculoskeltal Pain.
- Tehrani MR, Nazary-Moghadam S, Zeinalzadeh A, Moradi A, Mehrad-Majd H, Sahebalam M. Efficacy of low-level laser therapy on pain, disability, pressure pain threshold, and range of motion in patients with myofascial neck pain syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Lasers Med Sci. 2022 Dec;37(9):3333-3341. doi: 10.1007/s10103-022-03626-9. Epub 2022 Aug 13. PMID: 35962884.
- Alayat MSM, Battecha KH, Elsodany AM, Alzahrani OA, Alqurashi AKA, Jawa AT, Alharthi YS. Effectiveness of Photobiomodulation Therapy in the Treatment of Myofascial Pain Syndrome of the Upper Trapezius Muscle: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg. 2022 Oct;40(10):661-674. doi: 10.1089/photob.2022.0056. Epub 2022 Oct 10. PMID: 36219747.
- Timimi, Z.A.L., Gide, B. & Tamimi, Z.J.M. Photobiomodulation therapy in musculoskeletal rehabilitation, mechanisms, clinical evidence, and integrated protocols: a systematic review. Sport Sci Health 22, 115 (2026).
- Tsagkaris C, Papazoglou AS, Eleftheriades A, Tsakopoulos S, Alexiou A, Găman MA, Moysidis DV. Infrared Radiation in the Management of Musculoskeletal Conditions and Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ. 2022 Mar 14;12(3):334-343. doi: 10.3390/ejihpe12030024. PMID: 35323210; PMCID: PMC8946909.
