Light Therapy and Sound Therapy for Depression
December 8, 2010 by kevin
Filed under Light and Sound therapy for depression
Light therapy and sound therapy for Depression
Light Therapy for Depression and Sleep Problems
The production of the hormone melatonin, a sleep regulator, is inhibited by light and permitted by darkness. To some degree, the reverse is true for serotonin, which has been linked to mood disorders. Hence, for the purpose of manipulating melatonin levels or timing, light boxes providing very specific types of artificial illumination are effective.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):
People with seasonal affective disorder go into depression like states during the winter months. This is seen in places where the amount of daylight is very less in these seasons (countries near the North Pole, for instance). The cure for these people is full sunlight. So, light boxes which replicate sunlight conditions are used for these patients. These use artificial illumination to re-create the fully lighted atmospheric conditions that are normally present in sunlight.
While full sunlight is preferred for seasonal affective disorder (SAD), light boxes may be effective for the treatment of the condition. The United States Food and Drug Administration has not approved the use of light boxes to treat SAD due to unclear results in clinical trials, but light therapy is still seen as a possible form of treatment for SAD. Direct sunlight, reflected into the windows of a home or office by a computer-controlled mirror device called a heliostat, has also been used as a type of light therapy for the treatment of SAD.
It is possible that response to light therapy for SAD could be season dependent.
Dr. Normal E. Rosenthal’s seminal 1985 paper defining Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) was the first to describe application of bright artificial light in the treatment of winter depression. Rosenthal’s hypothesis was that lengthening the daily photoperiod (in effect mimicking summer day length in the northern latitudes) would effect a remission of winter depressive symptoms.
Non-seasonal depression
Light therapy has also been suggested in the treatment of non-seasonal depression and other psychiatric disturbances, including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and postpartum depression.. A meta-analysis by the Cochrane Collaboration concluded that “For patients suffering from non-seasonal depression, light therapy offers modest though promising antidepressive efficacy”.
Circadian rhythm sleep disorders
Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS):
People suffering with Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS) have problems sleeping and often end up falling asleep way past midnight and thus have difficulty waking up in the morning. In these cases the light must be provided as soon as the patient wakes up. Light therapy is useful for the people suffering from DSPS because it causes dawn simulation.
Chronic CRSD
In the management of circadian rhythm disorders such as delayed sleep phase syndrome, the timing of light exposure is critical. For DSPS, the light must be provided as soon after spontaneous awakening as possible to achieve the desired effect, as shown by the phase response curve for light in humans. Some users have reported success with lights that turn on shortly ”before” awakening (dawn simulation). Morning use may also be effective for non-24-hour sleep-wake syndrome, while evening use is recommended for advanced sleep phase syndrome.
Other Benefits of Bright Light Therapy
Increasingly, light therapy is being used to reset our body clocks – sometimes along with melatonin and sometimes on its own-no matter how or why they’ve been put off track. Scientists are discovering that light therapy may have potential for treatment of several other disorders in addition to that of SAD. Another area where bright light therapy has proven itself beneficial is in the area of sleep disorders. Advanced sleep phase syndrome (ASPS) is characterized by premature sleep onset and early morning awakening. Future applications of bright light therapy may well include any area where a disease or syndrome recurs seasonally, shows winter exacerbation, or plausibly is related to insufficient or ill-timed outdoor light exposure regardless of the season.
* Early Morning Insomnia
* Night-owl insomnia
* Jet Lag
* Productivity Enhancement
* Bulimia
* Late-shift drowsiness
* Nonseasonal depression
* Prolonged menstrual cycles
Visit our store under the ‘sound therapy section’ to see our list of sound therapy cd’s to help.
http://www.lightsoundtechnology.com/store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=2&zenid=1td6ocnjo7rm9luft2oopin8p3
Light Therapy for Depression with LightSoundTherapy
After reading this article, please visit the above website for a safe, affordable, home based solution that is F.D.A. approved, and for home and clinical use. We have been in the light therapy business for over 20 years with the vision of my mother for help with humans and animals with their pain relief issues, stress issues, and skin care issues. If you have any questions or concerns with pricing please call us. Our team of wellness professionals will do everything for you to get the solutions and results that you are looking for.
January 6, 2011, 4:15 PM
Light Therapy for Depression
By RONI CARYN RABIN
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/01/06/light-therapy-for-depression/
A light box provides artificial light to ease depression.
Antidepressants like Prozac and Paxil are widely used to treat depression, but a much less costly alternative called bright light therapy, in which a patient sits under an artificial light for a set period of time each day, is not. Light therapy is typically recommended for seasonal affective disorder, the “winter blues” brought on by shorter days and limited sun. Some psychiatrists prescribe it for this condition, often as a last resort when patients fail to respond to drugs.
One reason light therapy hasn’t been used in more people with depression is that there aren’t many good clinical trials of the therapy in depressed patients without seasonal affective disorder. There isn’t much money to be made from the treatment — all it involves is a one-time purchase of a special lamp. The upside is that it has few, if any, side effects (though, doctors note, it should always be done in consultation with a physician).
Now a new, carefully designed randomized controlled trial — of the kind considered the gold standard in medicine — suggests bright light therapy deserves a closer look.
The study was small, involving only 89 patients ages 60 and older, but the results were remarkable. Compared with a placebo, light therapy improved mood just as well as conventional antidepressant medications, said Dr. Ritsaert Lieverse, the paper’s lead author and a psychiatrist at the VU University Medical Center in Amsterdam.
“The effect sizes we found in this study are comparable to those reported for antidepressants, so I think efficacy is of comparable magnitude,” Dr. Lieverse said in an e-mail.
The report was published this week in The Archives of General Psychiatry.
Participants were evaluated at the beginning of the study using the Hamilton Scale for Depression, a questionnaire that doctors use to assess the severity of depression. They were then randomly assigned for three weeks to either bright light therapy or a dummy red light used as a placebo for comparison.
Since depression is often accompanied by poor sleep and other symptoms suggestive of circadian rhythm disruption, the scientists also examined markers of circadian function. The theory is that bright light therapy may act to elevate mood by activating the brain’s so-called circadian pacemaker, a structure called the suprachiasmatic nucleus. As part of the study, researchers assessed sleep quality and measured patients’ melatonin, a hormone critical for sleep-wake cycles, and urinary cortisol and salivary cortisol levels, measures of stress.
Dr. Lieverse said bright light therapy may also work by targeting depression-associated neurotransmitter systems that regulate serotonin and dopamine.
After three weeks of treatment, 43 percent of the patients who received bright light therapy had improved scores on the depression scale, compared with 36 percent of those who were assigned to the placebo treatment.
Treatment was then stopped, and patients were evaluated again three weeks later. Interestingly, those who had received the light therapy continued to improve, with 54 percent now having an improved score on the depression scale, while improvement declined in the placebo group, to 33 percent.
Those who got the active treatment were also sleeping better; their urinary and salivary cortisol levels dropped compared with the placebo group, and their melatonin levels increased steeply in the evenings in comparison to the placebo group.
Bright light therapy is already indicated for specific conditions like certain sleep disorders, jet lag, Alzheimer’s disease and postpartum depression, Dr. Lieverse said, but should be considered for major depression because of its benefits, especially the apparent lack of adverse side effects.
“Light therapy is now evolving as an effective depression treatment not only to be used in seasonal affective disorder,” he said.
What? No Insurance for LED Light Therapy?
July 21, 2009 by wfleonard
Filed under Light Therapy Studies
What’s this about infrared light therapy and dramatic recovery from chronic wounds and healing severely damaged tissues—has the medical community found something better than surgery?
Three highly-qualified RN’s have published their findings about the benefits of treatment that overcome the complications of severe tissue damage caused by underlying auto-immune disease, arthritis, unstable diabetes, or resistance to antibiotic therapies. (Wow!—it’s better than antibiotics?! I do NOT like taking medications if possible—and this is more beneficial, medically proven and validated, and…more affordable than repeated hospital or skilled facility placement?)
Now comes the hard part: who to believe—the insurance companies and which part of the government?
Well, it works for our fighting men in the military: this has already validated in a NASA News, Marshall Space Flight Center News Release 00-336 (12-18-00). Dr. Harry Whelan, commander and diving medical officer in the U.S. Navy reserve then assigned to Naval Special Warfare Command and a professor of pediatric neurology and director of hyperbaric medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin, has been working alongside doctors at Navy Special Warfare Command centers in Norfolk, VA, and San Diego, CA. They reported a 40 percent improvement in patients who had musculoskeletal training injuries treated with the light-emitting diodes. In the laboratory, Whelan and his team have shown that skin and muscle cells grown in cultures and exposed to the LED infrared light grow 150 to 200 percent faster than ground control cultures not stimulated by the light. Furthermore, a wound-healing device was placed on the USS Salt Lake City submarine, and doctors reported 50 percent faster healing of crewmember’s lacerations when exposed to the LED light. Injuries treated with the LEDs healed in seven days, while untreated injuries took 14 days.
And it helps children too: Dr. Whelan’s NASA-funded research has already seen remarkable results using the light-emitting diodes to promote healing of painful mouth ulcers caused by cancer therapies such as radiation and chemotherapy. The treatment is quick and painless. Doctors at the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin recently completed the first-ever surgery with the improved probe and medicine. The drug also has fewer side effects after surgery. The ongoing brain surgery study is described in a 1999 peer-reviewed journal article in Pediatric Neurosurgery. “Some children who probably would have had to be fed intravenously because of the severe sores in their mouths have been able to eat solid food,” said Dr. David Margolis, an oncologist at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin in Milwaukee and an assistant professor of pediatrics at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
So what’s the fuss? Aetna states on the Clinical Policy Bulletin Number 0604 that
{ treatment with low-level infrared light (infrared therapy, Anodyne Therapy System) experimental and investigational for the treatment of chronic non-healing wounds, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, lymphedema, neck pain, acne, osteoarthritis, ischemic stroke and all other indications (except for grade I and II internal hemorrhoids) because of a lack of adequate evidence in the peer-reviewed published medical literature regarding the effectiveness of infrared therapy for these indications.)
In other words, they can’t believe it’s possible and all results achieved are not to be believed, regardless of recovery and evidence.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services also has a blind eye:
- CMS has determined that there is sufficient evidence to conclude that the use of Infrared devices is not reasonable and necessary for treatment of Medicare beneficiaries for diabetic and non-diabetic peripheral sensory neuropathy, wounds and ulcers, and similar related conditions, including symptoms such as pain arising from these conditions. Therefore, we are issuing the following National Coverage Determination.
- The use of infrared and/or near-infrared light and/or heat, including monochromatic infrared energy (MIRE), is not covered for the treatment, including symptoms such as pain arising from these conditions, of diabetic and/or non-diabetic peripheral sensory neuropathy, wounds and/or ulcers of skin and/or subcutaneous tissues in Medicare beneficiaries.
Great! I’m convinced more than ever that when (one part) of the government says No” and another part heavily involved in physical human resources (the military) says “Yes,” I’m inclined to think that progress comes through effort and application—and being open to new ideas. Insurance companies are another issue; just ask AIG. Well, that settles it: if it heals me if I am in physical need, whom do I believe: the results my doctor gets or a bureaucrat? Ship it!
FAQ LED Light Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
It is hard for me to believe that shining a little red or blue light on my body can heal anything. Why should I use this light therapy device?
There are literally thousands of articles, abstracts and books written on the benefits of Light Therapy today. These publications have been written by doctors, scientists and practitioners from such prestigious organizations as NASA, The Medical College of Wisconsin, Samuel Haroff Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University, Harvard and many other organizations that have conducted extensive research on Light Therapy. To read Amercian Cancer Society Article About Light Therapy please click here.
Are any of the treatments harmful?
We have had no indication of any harmful effects resulting from the use of our therapy products. Of course, please use according to the suggested instructions issued with the unit.
Will this work for someone who is diagnosed with a chronic condition or termed by the medical community as “hopeless”.
We have had no indication of any harmful effects resulting from the use of our products. Of course, please use according to the suggested instructions issued with the unit.
Can I use Light Therapy if I am pregnant?
There are no conclusive studies that we are aware of associated with light therapy and pregnancy. Therefore we would recommend contacting a physician who has a working knowledge of light, laser and/or vibrational therapies.
Can I quit taking my medications after using Light Therapy?
Although many clients have reportedly been able to discontinue or downgrade their medication, including morphine, it is recommended that you work closely with your primary health practitioner for any medication changes.
Will this therapy work over clothing?
Although we recommend direct contact with the skin, when possible, the LED’s will be effective over clothing. If at all possible try to use it over natural fibers such as cotton or wool. If natural fibers are not available then wear a thin material such as rayon, nylon, or polyester. However, length of treatment time might be less when there is direct contact with the skin.
Can I use this unit with a pace maker?
We could find no specific research contradicting the use of LED devices with pacemakers. Consequently, it would be wise to consult your primary medical practitioner or a doctor with a working knowledge of light and vibrational therapies.
I live alone. can I treat myself?
Yes. The device is designed to be lightweight and easy to handle. When treating your hands the device can be placed in your lap. Additionally, there are accessories available to further improve the ease of use
What will I notice during and after treatment?
1. You will feel an increase in temperature or warmth in the treated area.
2. Different sensations are possible with Light Force Therapy depending on the individual. You may experience the following effects.
- You will feel warmth or hot sensations.
- You will experience the relief from your pain.
- You may have a greater range of motion.
- You may feel a calming or soothing effect.
- You may be able to sleep through the night without minor pain.
When will I feel betther or see some positive results?
It is important to remember that we are all unique; no two people are the same. Factors such as age, sex, level of fitness and various physical conditions can affect how quickly your Light Force Therapy unit can help you. There are several things you can do to increase your level of benefit with Light For Therapy.
- Adequate nutrition.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Do not smoke or drink alcohol.
- Stress reduction.
- Get adequate amount of sleep (8 hours, if possible)
In cases where your condition has lasted for many years (chronic) it may take longer to notice substancial results because so many areas may need the therapeutic benefits of Light Force Therapy. Give yourself the gift of time to notice substantial results. Also take into consideration the subtle changes you might encounter such as increased range of motion and better sleep.
Can it burn my skin?
Our units are safe and will not burn the skin when used according to our instructions.
Is this harmful if used with photosensitive drugs?
There are no studies indicating harmful effects when used with photosensitive drugs. However, if you have a concern, stop using the equipment and have your doctor contact Light For Therapy.
Should I reduce my prescribed medications?
Do not discontinue/reduce medications without consulting your health care provider.
Will there be harmful effects if I have plates, pins, a pacemaker, or cancer seed implants?
There are no known contraindications associated with this type of therapy; however, the device has not been tested on all conditions. If you experience adverse effects or have a concern regarding use of the equipment, stop using it and have your doctor contact Light For Therapy.
What is the return policy?
Our policy is a 30 day money back guarentee on all items minus a 15% restocking fee.
What if I’m on a fixed income?
Please call us to discuss any financial situation that you might have, our mission is to help anyone with stress and pain relief, we will do our best to accommodate your budgets and needs if we can.
The Relaxation Effect with Sound Therapy
July 17, 2009 by wfleonard
Filed under Stress Management
Sound Therapy CD
The body rejuvenates itself during rest periods and sleep. Therefore use this protocol when stressed or experiencing sleeplessness. Using headphones with our “Deep Relax” CD optimizes the relaxation effect. When the mind is at rest, the body’s ability to heal itself is maximized.
For Sleep or to decrease anxiety, set on Low 1 (blinking lights) and place on tummy while in an easy chair or lying down. It’s best to play the 30 minute ”Deep Relax” CD which came with your light box (with headphones if possible) which is equivalent to a 2-3 hour nap ….or use Barry Goldstein’s other soothing music CD’s sold on our website.
This allows the mind to sleep while the lights relax the body, like melting butter, from the inside out. The body can repair itself much faster and effortlessly if the mind is out of the way. The lights also clear blockages in the acupuncture meridian points throughout the body for prevention and maintenance of a strong immune system and internal organ health. Let us know how it works for you.
Sound Therapy Featured Pic 3
July 15, 2009 by wfleonard
Filed under Featured Pictures
