Whether you’re a competitive swimmer, or you just like to log up the laps for fun, swimming injuries can severely reduce your pool time. Neck and shoulder injuries are among the most common injuries that swimmers face.
Neck and shoulder injuries from swimming include:
- Irritation and inflammation in the shoulders
- Rotator cuff tendonitis or tears
- Shoulder impingement syndrome, which is a result of pressure on the rotator cuff muscles from part of the shoulder blade when the arm is lifted overhead
- Tears in the cartilage around the shoulder socket
- Neck and lower back pain
- Bicep tendonitis.
Swimmers might also experience knee injuries. Stress on the knees can result in pain under or around the kneecap or at the inside of the knee.
How will light therapy help treat injuries incurred in swimmers?
- Cells receive a boost of energy: Once red light is absorbed, each cell’s mitochondria receive a boost of energy. Mitochondria, known as the powerhouse of the cell, is responsible for producing energy. Because their function is increased, mitochondria produce more adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is energy-carrying molecules found in the cells of all living things. When given more energy, cells can function correctly.
- Cells repair and regenerate more quickly: Many experts believe that because of excess energy from red light therapy, they gain an enhanced ability to repair and restore themselves. This creates healing in skin and muscle tissues. The quicker cells can regenerate and repair, the faster injuries heal.
- Nitric oxide gets released: Nitric oxide is essential to healthy arteries. This gas helps arteries relax, reduces oxidative stress by fighting free radicals, prevents vessels from platelet clumping, and aids in blood pressure regulation. This allows the molecule to enhance blood circulation to deliver vital nutrients and oxygen to damaged tissues. This sparks the repair and regeneration of injured tissues, reducing pain and inflammation.
- Collagen production is increased: The protein collagen provides structure to the skin. It’s also existent in muscle and connective tissue. When injuries heal, separated tissues are stitched back together through a latticework made up of collagen. Collagen production is increased when exposed to red and infrared light. Increased collagen production equated to healthier skin which is better able to heal effectively.
- Stem cells become activated: Stem cells are where specialised cells such as brain cells, blood cells, heart muscle cells, and bone cells come from. When stem cells are exposed to red and infrared light, they become activated. They then travel through the bloodstream to the injured area. After arriving, they transform into the needed cell type to help with healing.
Some of the benefits of using the Photizo Sport include:
- Reduces inflammation
- Increases blood circulation
- Boosts endorphin production
- Blocks pain transmitting chemicals
- Eases pain
- Non-invasive
- Pain-free
- Simple to operate
- Safe
