PBM Therapy FAQ - Aqua Spa Float Center
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PBM Therapy

  • What is PBM Therapy?

    Photobiomodulation takes advantage of how the body reacts in a positive way to specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light.

    Everyone knows that light has an effect on the human body. Sunlight helps with Vitamin D synthesis. UV light causes a reaction in melanin, changing the colour of our skin. Blue light is used to treat neonatal jaundice.

    There is a staggering amount of evidence for the efficacy of PBM and new research is being published regularly. It’s currently in use at cutting edge hospitals to treat debilitating side effects of chemotherapy (Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplants).

    THOR (our PBM bed manufacturer) collaborates with Harvard Medical School, Massachussett’s Institute of Technology, and many other leading research hospitals around the world. Evidence for PBM has been published in leading journals, such as The Lancet and is recommended by the World Health Organisation for the treatment of neck pain.

  • What are the benefits?

    Performance

    NovoTHOR is the professional device of choice for professional sports teams, olympic athletes, and the US Special Forces.

    • NovoTHOR is an incredible way to boost the effectiveness of workouts, improving muscle performance.
    • Pre-workout treatments are best. It increases blood flow and helps get the body ready for an intense workout.
    • You can also NovoTHOR it to improve recovery from a workout, relaxing muscles, reducing aches in muscles and joints.
    • A workout doesn’t just stress the target muscle group. It stresses supporting muscles and joints. NovoTHOR treats the entire body all at once, making sure that those supporting muscles get the treatment they need.
    • It is a relaxing experience and a great way to wind down, encouraging mindfulness and introspection.

    Health Optimization

    • Restoration of motion to joints
    • NovoTHOR treats the entire body, which is excellent for people who share multiple health challenges, or people who find that their health challenge has systemic effects.

    More Benefits Include:

    • Improved muscle performance
    • Restoration of motion to joints
    • Redevelop muscles
    • Relaxation of muscles and relief from muscle spasms
    • Temporary relief of minor muscle and joint aches, pain and stiffness
    • Temporary relief of minor pain and stiffness associated with arthritis
    • Temporarily increase blood circulation
  • Who should not participate in PBM Therapy?
    • Women who are pregnant

    Anyone with:

    • Active cancer
    • Cardiac pacemakers
    • Malignant tumors
    • Sensitivity or allergy to light therapy
    • Active hemorrhage or shock and internal organ damage
    • High fever
    • Active tuberculosis
    • Vasculitis Obliterans
    • Severe kidney disease
    • Severe Heart Disease
    • Myocarditis
    • Uremia
    • Skin disease
  • What do I wear?

    It is recommended to be fully undressed during a treatment, or minimally dressed (underwear, swimsuit, etc). Treatment is enhanced by exposing as much skin to the light therapy as possible. Our Red Light Suite is private – complete with locking door.

    To prevent damage to the acrylic plastic surfaces, all rings, watches, bracelets and the like should be removed before the treatment session.

  • Should I wear eye coverings?

    While there is science supporting PBM for eye and vision recovery, we will provide blackout goggles for your comfort.

  • How long is a session?

    8 to 12 minutes.

    NovoTHOR recommends beginning with an 8 minute session if you have any sensitivities or health concerns and working your way up to the optimal 12 minute session. Research suggests that there’s not much benefit in extending the time past 12 minutes. Much like Vitamin C, too much red light doesn’t hurt but there’s no added benefit.

  • What if I have an open wound?

    While PBM therapy is great for healing wounds, we recommend waiting until the area is partially healed. Fresh wounds may be fully covered before use.

  • When will I feel the difference?

    That depends on your goals and current condition. According to our research, acute injuries (sprains, abrasions, etc.) show rapid improvement in 2-4 treatments. Long-term and chronic conditions may need up to 10 treatments to show significant benefits. Most clients do 3 times per week until their goals are met, then reduce to 1-2 times per week for maintenance. For athletes with a rigorous workload, 3-5 times per week is recommended for optimal recovery.

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