WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN PURCHASING A RED LIGHT THERAPY SYSTEM FOR YOUR PRACTICE

Are you a practitioner thinking about purchasing a Red Light Therapy system to provide additional benefit to your patients and expand your treatment menu?  And are you confused about all the many light therapy devices that keep popping up in the marketplace?  Here are some points to keep in mind and questions to ask to help you make a smart purchase:
Before Purchasing
Many Red Light Therapy systems are comprised of therapy pads and the controllers that operate these pads. Before you begin looking at devices, sit down and analyze your patients’ most common issues.  This will help you decide how many pads you will need for therapy sessions, and the most useful sizes and shapes for these pads. The number of pads you want to utilize will determine the number of ports needed on your system’s controller. 
 
Crucial Questions:

1. FDA Clearance: Red Light Therapy pads are considered “Class II” medical devices. Has the manufacturer received FDA 510 (k) clearance for this system, so that it meets all necessary safety standards? 
2. Warranty: Does a warranty come with this system? 
3. Repairs: Is there a repair center in the USA and how long is the turnaround time?
4. Repair Post-Warranty: Can this system be repaired after the warranty expires?  What is the cost?
5. Support: Is there a way to contact the company if you have any questions now or in the future? 
6. Versatility: Can the pads in this system handle a variety of therapy applications?

 
The Controller is Central

1. Number of Ports: Make sure to purchase a controller with enough ports to operate the number of pads you need.  Controllers are often offered in two, three, or six port configurations.
2. Automatic Shut Off: Since patients may be left unattended during therapy, a controller with automatic shut-off allows you or your assistant to not have to worry about returning precisely after the twenty-minute time period of the therapy session.
3. Size and Weight: Having a controller that is small and lightweight will make it easier to move your system from patient to patient.

Pads are Paramount

1. Size and Shape: To be most effective, the pads in your system should cover the entire body area where pain relief is needed. The largest pads are the most helpful to treat back, hip, or shoulder pain. Small rectangular pads are helpful to relieve pain in the neck, wrist, or finger(s).  Some longer pads can be wrapped around elbows and knees with Velcro, while small square pads can be used to treat more localized areas. To treat neuropathy, therapy “boots” can cover the calf and/or foot. 
2. Flexibility Equals Versatility: The pads in your system should be flexible enough to bend easily. This will allow you to use the same pad on different areas of the body, giving your system greater versatility to treat a variety of issues.
3. Durability: Choose a system with pads made of thick neoprene and diodes that sit firmly in the pad.
4. Diode Comfort: Diodes that uncomfortably poke into the patient’s skin take away from the relaxing nature of Red Light Therapy and your patient’s enjoyment of their therapy session.  Diodes that rise just slightly above the surface of the pads will not poke your patients and leave indentations in the skin.

The Takeaway
Asking these questions and knowing what to look for should lead you to purchase a well built medical-grade Red Light Therapy system that will bring many benefits to your patients and to your practice.
   
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