Red light therapy uses low-level red and infrared light to stimulate cell activity.
Early research suggests it may help improve movement, mood, and sleep in people living with Parkinson’s when used alongside medical care.
Red light therapy & Parkinson’s
Red light therapy, also called photobiomodulation (PBM), is gaining attention as a complementary therapy for people living with Parkinson’s disease. While it’s not a cure or a replacement for medication, some people report improvements in movement, mood, and sleep when using red light therapy alongside their usual treatment strategies.
What is red light therapy?
Red light therapy uses low-level red and near-infrared light to stimulate cells and support healing. It’s delivered through wearable devices like helmets or handheld lasers. The light penetrates the skin and may help cells produce more energy by boosting mitochondrial function (the cell’s energy producers).
Red and infrared light may help by:
- Stimulating mitochondria
- Supporting dopamine release
- Reducing inflammation
- Improving gut-brain axis function
For example, one helmet on the market targets the back of the head and neck, areas linked to motor control and autonomic function.
Discuss any potential complementary therapies, with your care team to ensure safety and effectiveness for your specific situation. These are classified as wellness devices, not medical treatments. They are not listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
Who might it help?
Some people with Parkinson’s disease, including those with Young Onset Parkinson’s (YOPD), have reported improvements in:
- Movement and coordination
- Sleep and mood
- Cognition and energy levels
- Gut health and sense of smell.
These effects vary between individuals and are still being studied.
Key takeaways on red light therapy
1) Not all light therapies are the same
Different light therapy devices vary in wavelength, intensity, and clinical purpose. Research into Parkinson’s-specific applications is ongoing, and not all devices are designed or tested for neurological conditions. It’s important to seek therapies supported by evidence and clinical oversight.
2) Purpose-built devices matter
Devices used in clinical studies are often calibrated to specific settings and built to international standards. This ensures consistency, safety, and reliability. If considering light therapy, look for products with clinical backing and transparent protocols.
3) Light therapy is complementary, not a replacement
Current research suggests red light therapy may support quality of life when used alongside standard Parkinson’s care plans, such as medication, good sleep, exercise, and allied health therapies. It is not a substitute for medical treatment and should be discussed with your care team.
4) The gut-brain connection is under investigation
Emerging studies are exploring how light therapy may influence the gut microbiome and inflammation. These areas are increasingly linked to Parkinson’s symptoms. These are early-stage investigations and part of a broader effort to understand the whole-body impacts of Parkinson’s.
5) Supporting both motor and non-motor symptoms
Some clinical trials have reported improvements in movement, balance, cognition, and mood following light therapy. These findings are promising but preliminary, and more large-scale research is needed to confirm long-term benefits and safety.
How do I access red light therapy?
Red light therapy devices are available for home use. It’s advisable to explore all available pathways to find the support that best suits your individual needs. Look to:
- speaking with your care team before starting any complementary therapies
- your state-based Parkinson’s organisation for advice on local services to access
- private health to see what is covered in relation to consultations and expenses Cancel
- DVA, NDIS or My Aged Care plan supports, if applicable.
Infosheet under review
References
- Bicknell, B., Liebert, A., & Herkes, G. (2024). Parkinson’s Disease and Photobiomodulation: Potential for Treatment. Journal of personalized medicine, 14(1), 112. https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14010112
- Herkes, G., McGee, C., Liebert, A., Bicknell, B., Isaac, V., Kiat, H., & McLachlan, C. S. (2023). A novel transcranial photobiomodulation device to address motor signs of Parkinson’s disease: A parallel randomised feasibility study. eClinicalMedicine, 66, 102338. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102338
- Liebert, A., Bicknell, B., Laakso, EL. et al. Improvements in clinical signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease using photobiomodulation: a five-year follow-up. BMC Neurol 24, 381 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12883-024-03857-z
- Sun, W., Yan, J., Wu, J., & Ma, H. (2022). Efficacy and Safety of Light Therapy as a Home Treatment for Motor and Non-Motor Symptoms of Parkinson Disease: A Meta-Analysis. Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research, 28, e935074. https://doi.org/10.12659/MSM.935074
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