Pain relief through precision red light therapy — MedWave Pain & Inflammation Management
Pain & Inflammation Management

Real Relief
is Cellular.

Photobiomodulation targets pain at its source — modulating inflammation, reducing nerve sensitisation, and accelerating tissue repair without medication, side effects, or downtime.

*Free demos are only available for potential providers.

-13.57mm
VAS pain reduction in chronic low back pain¹
9,000+
Patients across PBM pain meta-analyses²
1,000+
Peer-reviewed PBM studies
0
Reported serious adverse effects³

Your patients are caught between medications that mask symptoms and invasive procedures that carry risk. They need a better path to recovery.

MedWave integrates clinical-grade red light therapy (photobiomodulation) to help modulate inflammation, support pain relief, and promote tissue repair — without drugs, side effects, or downtime.

Pain Management is Broken.

Chronic pain affects an estimated 1 in 5 adults worldwide. The standard approach — NSAIDs, opioids, cortisone injections — manages symptoms while creating new problems: dependency, gastrointestinal damage, diminishing returns.

MedWave’s devices deliver clinical-grade red and near-infrared light therapy that penetrates deep into tissue — modulating the inflammatory cascade, reducing nerve sensitisation, and promoting genuine tissue repair at the cellular level.

Zero consumables. Zero side effects. One device that transforms a single treatment room into a high-yield pain management centre backed by 1,000+ peer-reviewed studies on photobiomodulation.

Your patients don’t just want pain relief. They want to function again.

The Gap

Conventional pain management focuses on masking symptoms — blocking signals with medication or numbing tissue with injections — without addressing the underlying cause.

The Shift

Patients are demanding treatments that restore function, not just suppress pain. They want evidence-based solutions that work with their biology, not against it.

The Solution

MedWave bridges the divide. By stimulating mitochondria, we promote the body’s own anti-inflammatory and repair mechanisms — addressing pain at its cellular origin.

The Result

Support measurable pain reduction, improved mobility, reduced inflammation, and faster recovery for your patients — all from a single, non-invasive device that works at the cellular level.

We bridge the gap between symptom management and genuine recovery.

Four Pillars of Recovery.

How precision red light therapy triggers a biological cascade that supports pain relief and tissue repair. Built on peer-reviewed photobiomodulation research.

01

Inflammation Modulation

Anti-Inflammatory

Red light interacts with activated inflammatory cells to help reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-alpha, PGE2) and promote a shift from M1 (pro-inflammatory) to M2 (anti-inflammatory) macrophage phenotypes. Research demonstrates that PBM may modulate the NF-kB pathway — reducing inflammatory signalling in damaged tissue while supporting normal cellular function.³

M1→M2Macrophage phenotype shift (Hamblin 2017)³
02

Pain Signal Reduction

Analgesic

PBM may help reduce pain through multiple pathways: decreasing nerve sensitisation, reducing inflammatory mediators that trigger nociceptors, and modulating endorphin release. Meta-analyses show significant VAS pain score reductions across chronic low back pain (WMD = -13.57mm), knee osteoarthritis (SMD = 0.96), and chronic neck pain (P<0.001 vs physiotherapy).

-13.57mmVAS pain reduction in chronic low back pain
03

Tissue Repair & Regeneration

Cellular Healing

Light energy absorbed by mitochondria boosts ATP production, restoring the cellular energy needed for tissue repair. Photons interact with Cytochrome C Oxidase (CCO), displacing inhibitory nitric oxide and reactivating the electron transport chain. This supports fibroblast proliferation, collagen synthesis, and accelerated wound closure.

ATPCellular energy restored for repair
04

Circulation & Recovery

Sports & Rehabilitation

PBM may support enhanced microcirculation, improved oxygen delivery, and reduced oxidative stress in muscle tissue. A systematic review of 46 clinical trials found PBM significantly reduced creatine kinase (a muscle damage marker) and DOMS. In elite rugby athletes, PBM reduced blood lactate levels and improved sprint recovery (p≤0.05).

46Clinical trials showing sports recovery benefits

All clinical data sourced from peer-reviewed studies. Full references available below.

Not All Red Light is Created Equal.

Most consumer red light panels scatter broad-spectrum light across the skin with minimal tissue penetration — far below the therapeutic thresholds established in clinical research.

MedWave’s devices deliver precision red and near-infrared light wavelengths through 585 high-output LEDs at 3,000 watts total output — penetrating 3–4cm into subcutaneous tissue to reach inflamed joints, damaged muscle fibres, and compressed nerve pathways.

3,000W
Total power output
1,500W
Therapeutic delivery
Red & / or NIR
Single or dual wavelength panels available
585
High-output LEDs
3–4cm
Tissue penetration depth
SAHPRA Registered Class B and CFDA Exempt — Pain ManagementClass II and III Medical Device
MedWave Medical-Grade Red Light Therapy Device — SAHPRA Approved
The Power of Narrow Light Technology

MedWave vs. Conventional Pain Approaches

MedWave Devices

  • Non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical intervention
  • Targets root cause: cellular inflammation and tissue damage
  • Zero side effects — “almost complete lack of adverse effects”³
  • Complements existing manual and exercise therapies
  • SAHPRA registered Class B and C medical device
  • FDA exempt for pain management
  • Backed by 1,000+ peer-reviewed PBM studies

Conventional Approaches

  • NSAIDs: GI damage, cardiovascular risk with long-term use
  • Opioids: dependency, tolerance, diminishing returns
  • Cortisone: limited injections per year, tissue degradation
  • Symptom masking without addressing root cause
  • TENS/ultrasound: temporary relief, limited tissue penetration
  • Often require ongoing pharmaceutical costs
  • Risk of adverse effects increases with duration of use

Clinical Protocols for
Your Practice.

Turn one room into a multi-modality pain management centre.

CHRONIC PAIN

The Pain Reset Protocol

A targeted programme for chronic pain patients — lower back, neck, joint, and widespread pain conditions. Supports inflammation modulation and progressive pain reduction over a structured course.

Duration
20 min
Programme
10–12 sessions
Key Result
Pain reduction
RECOVERY

The Recovery Accelerator

Designed for sports injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, and acute musculoskeletal trauma. Promotes faster tissue repair, reduced swelling, and return-to-function outcomes.

Duration
20 min
Programme
6–10 sessions
Key Result
Faster recovery
INFLAMMATION

The Inflammation Control Programme

A systemic protocol for inflammatory conditions including fibromyalgia, arthritis, and autoimmune-related pain. Targets the inflammatory cascade to support symptom management and improved quality of life.

Duration
20 min
Programme
8–12 sessions
Key Result
Inflammation support

Accelerate the Recovery.

Red light reduces inflammation. Vibration restores function.

Pairing MedWave devices with the Hypervibe whole body vibration plate creates a synergistic protocol: PBM modulates the inflammatory cascade while controlled vibration promotes circulation, lymphatic drainage, and neuromuscular activation.

Research confirms whole body vibration increases oxygen consumption by approximately 22% and energy expenditure by approximately 20% — supporting the recovery process initiated by photobiomodulation.

1

Light modulates inflammation.

2

Vibration restores circulation and mobility.

3

Faster recovery. Functional patient.

MedWave Hypervibe Whole Body Vibration Plate

“Sell recovery, not just relief.”

Your Clinical
Revenue Engine.

Maximise Revenue Per Treatment Room.

MedWave allows you to deploy a turnkey clinical asset that seamlessly integrates into your existing patient flow. The treatment complements your practitioners — running alongside manual therapy, exercise prescription, and rehabilitation programmes rather than competing for therapist time.

MedWave red light therapy device — SAHPRA Approved

Zero Consumables

Your gross margin is virtually 100%. No gels, no replacement tips, no recurring product costs. Once you own the asset, every treatment is pure margin.

High Frequency & Retention

Patients typically book structured courses of 8–12 sessions, then transition to monthly maintenance — stabilising your cash flow with predictable recurring revenue.

Cross-Referral Power

The perfect complement to manual therapy, chiropractic adjustments, and exercise rehabilitation — improving patient outcomes and driving higher retention across your service offering.

Built for:
Physiotherapy & RehabilitationChiropractic PracticesSports Performance & RecoveryBiokineticists

People Are Talking.

Real results from real practitioners and MedWave patients.

Validated by Science.

Photobiomodulation for pain management isn’t theory — it’s backed by decades of peer-reviewed clinical research. Select a category below to explore the studies for yourself.

Efficacy of PBM in the Treatment of Pain and Inflammation: A Literature Review

Systematic review of 11 RCTs (from 96,751 initial results). Five studies demonstrated positive PBM effects on chronic pain; two reported marked inflammation improvements. Six studies scored “excellent” on PEDro scale. Multiple studies reported significant reductions in inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-alpha, PGE2) with p<0.001.

Read the study →

Effects of PBM on Multiple Health Outcomes: Umbrella Review

Umbrella review of 15 meta-analyses covering 9,000+ patients across 35 health endpoints. PBM appeared beneficial for fibromyalgia (fatigue severity eSMD 1.25), osteoarthritis-related disability, and burning mouth syndrome pain (eSMD -0.92).

Read the study →

Mechanisms and Applications of Anti-Inflammatory Effects of PBM

Landmark review establishing PBM’s anti-inflammatory mechanisms: NF-kB modulation, M1-to-M2 macrophage phenotype shift, reduced oxidative stress. Clinical applications demonstrated across arthritis, wound healing, muscle recovery, and neuropathic pain with “almost complete lack of reported adverse effects.”

Read the study →

Optimal Wavelength of LLLT in Treating Knee OA Symptoms: Network Meta-Analysis

Network meta-analysis of 13 RCTs with 673 participants. LLLT was superior to sham for pain relief (SMD = 0.96, 95% CI 0.31–1.61). The 904–905nm wavelength ranked highest (SUCRA: 86.90%), followed by multi-wavelength (56.43%).

Read the study →

LLLT + Strength Training in Knee OA: 52-Week RCT

50-participant RCT with 52-week follow-up. LLLT provided a positive add-on effect: significantly reduced analgesic/NSAID consumption and a 2.52 repetition advantage in sit-to-stand test at week 52, meeting the minimally clinically important threshold.

Read the study →

Effects of LLLT in Adults with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Meta-Analysis

Meta-analysis of 18 RCTs with 793 participants. While individual trial results varied, the authors noted the need for better-designed trials with standardised protocols. Highlights the importance of appropriate dosing parameters in PBM for rheumatological conditions.

Read the study →

LLLT for Nonspecific Chronic Low Back Pain: Meta-Analysis

Meta-analysis of 7 RCTs with 394 patients. VAS pain scores were significantly lower in the LLLT group (WMD = -13.57mm; 95% CI -17.42 to -9.72). LLLT was effective for pain relief in chronic low back pain patients.

Read the study →

PBM vs. Ultrasound for Chronic Neck Pain: RCT

RCT of 60 office workers with chronic neck pain. Both PBM and physiotherapy reduced VAS and Neck Disability Index scores, but PBM was significantly superior (P<0.001). Demonstrated PBM outperforming conventional physiotherapy for chronic non-specific neck pain.

Read the study →

PBM in Human Muscle Tissue: Sports Performance Review

Systematic review of 46 clinical trials with 1,045 participants. PBM increased muscle mass gains after training and decreased inflammation and oxidative stress. Significantly reduced creatine kinase (CK) levels and DOMS. Applying PBM 40–60 minutes before matches prevented significant muscle damage.

Read the study →

PBM for Elite Rugby Players: Double-Blind RCT

RCT with 12 elite male rugby athletes. Multi-wavelength PBM (905nm laser + 875nm and 640nm LEDs) significantly improved average sprint time and fatigue index. Blood lactate levels significantly reduced (p≤0.05). Perceived fatigue decreased significantly vs. placebo.

Read the study →

LLLT to Control Neuropathic Pain: Systematic Review

Systematic review of 14 studies (10 animal, 4 human). All studies demonstrated LLLT effectiveness for neuropathic pain analgesia. Infrared laser powers above 70mW showed superior effectiveness. Consistently positive results across study types.

Read the study →

LLLT for Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Study of 19 T2DM patients with peripheral neuropathy. 10-day LLLT protocol results: VAS pain decreased from 6.47 to 1.21 (p<0.001); neuropathy scores dropped from 5.52 to 2.71 (p<0.001); vibration perception threshold improved significantly (p<0.001).

Read the study →

PBM for Achilles Tendinopathy: Meta-Analysis

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 4 trials with 119 participants. At 2 months, one trial showed pain improvement favouring laser (MD = -2.55). Adverse events limited to minor exercise-related effects. Highlights the need for further well-designed trials.

Read the study →

PBM + Eccentric Exercise for Achilles Tendinopathy: RCT

RCT of 80 participants with chronic Achilles tendinopathy. At 12 weeks, twice-weekly exercise + PBM showed superior VISA-A outcomes with a moderate effect size of 0.7. Key finding: adding PBM provides benefit beyond exercise alone.

Read the study →

LLLT for Fibromyalgia: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Meta-analysis of 9 RCTs with 325 fibromyalgia patients. LLLT significantly outperformed placebo across all outcomes: pain severity (SMD 1.18), fatigue (SMD 1.4), stiffness (SMD 0.92), depression (SMD 1.46), anxiety (SMD 1.46). Concluded “LLLT is an effective, safe, and well-tolerated treatment for fibromyalgia.”

Read the study →

Effects of PBM on Multiple Health Outcomes: Umbrella Review

Umbrella review of 15 meta-analyses. PBM appeared beneficial for fibromyalgia with large effect sizes: fatigue severity (eSMD 1.25, 95% CI 0.63–1.87) and stiffness (eSMD 1.06, 95% CI 0.36–1.77). Supports PBM as a complementary approach for fibromyalgia management.

Read the study →

Educational Videos

Frequently Asked Questions.

Multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses support PBM’s role in chronic pain management. A 2023 systematic review of 11 RCTs found that five studies demonstrated positive PBM effects on chronic pain, with significant reductions in inflammatory markers (p<0.001). A meta-analysis of chronic low back pain showed significant VAS pain score reductions (WMD = -13.57mm). However, evidence strength varies by condition, and PBM should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
PBM works through a fundamentally different mechanism. Rather than blocking pain signals or inhibiting enzymes (as NSAIDs do), PBM targets cellular function — modulating inflammation at its source through NF-kB pathway regulation and macrophage phenotype shifting. A key advantage is the “almost complete lack of reported adverse effects” documented in Hamblin’s landmark 2017 review. One 52-week knee OA trial showed LLLT significantly reduced patients’ analgesic and NSAID consumption while maintaining functional improvements.
Response times vary by condition and severity. In acute sports injuries, athletes have reported reduced soreness and improved recovery within 1–2 sessions. For chronic conditions like low back pain or fibromyalgia, meaningful improvements typically emerge after 4–6 sessions of a structured programme. In a diabetic neuropathy study, significant pain reduction was achieved after a 10-day protocol. We recommend a structured course of 8–12 sessions for chronic pain patients, with benefits often continuing to develop after the programme concludes.
Yes. PBM is non-invasive, non-thermal, and non-pharmaceutical, making it highly compatible with other treatment modalities. Studies have demonstrated enhanced outcomes when PBM is combined with strength training (knee OA), eccentric exercise (Achilles tendinopathy), and manual therapy (neck and back pain). It can complement physiotherapy, chiropractic adjustments, exercise prescription, and even pharmaceutical interventions. Always consult clinical protocols for specific contraindications such as active malignancy or pregnancy over the treatment area.
Based on the current evidence, the strongest support exists for: fibromyalgia (large effect sizes across pain, fatigue, and stiffness); chronic low back pain (significant VAS reductions in meta-analysis); sports recovery (consistent performance and recovery benefits across 46 trials); and chronic neck pain (PBM outperformed conventional physiotherapy, P<0.001). Moderate evidence supports use for knee osteoarthritis, neuropathic pain, and tendinopathy. Evidence for rheumatoid arthritis is still developing.
Yes. MedWave devices are SAHPRA Registered Medical Devices (Class B and C) in South Africa, ensuring full clinical compliance. The technology is FDA Exempt for pain management and classified as Class II and III Medical Technology. This level of regulatory recognition distinguishes MedWave from consumer-grade red light panels that lack medical device registration.
Zero consumables. Unlike electrotherapy pads, ultrasound gel, or pharmaceutical supplies, MedWave devices require no ongoing consumable costs. Once you own the asset, virtually 100% of treatment revenue is gross margin. The only recurring cost is standard electricity for operation, which is negligible.
A standard treatment room (approx. 8×10 ft or 3×3 m) is sufficient. The device is mobile, allowing it to be moved between treatment rooms as needed. MedWave provides comprehensive onboarding training for your team, covering device operation, clinical protocols, and patient communication. No specialist certification is required beyond standard clinical qualifications.
  1. 1.Shashi Kumar CG, Maiya AG, et al. (2015). “Efficacy of low level laser therapy on painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy.” Laser Therapy, 24(3), 195–200.
  2. 2.Son Y, Lee H, et al. (2025). “Effects of photobiomodulation on multiple health outcomes: an umbrella review of randomized clinical trials.” Systematic Reviews.
  3. 3.Hamblin MR. (2017). “Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation.” AIMS Biophysics, 4(3), 337–361.
  4. 4.Huang Z, Ma J, et al. (2015). “The effectiveness of low-level laser therapy for nonspecific chronic low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” Arthritis Research & Therapy, 17, 360.
  5. 5.de Freitas LF, Hamblin MR. (2016). “Proposed Mechanisms of Photobiomodulation or Low-Level Light Therapy.” IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics, 22(3), 7000417.
  6. 6.Ferraresi C, Huang YY, Hamblin MR. (2016). “Photobiomodulation in human muscle tissue: an advantage in sports performance?” Journal of Biophotonics, 9(11–12), 1273–1299.
  7. 7.Milanese C, et al. (2018). “Metabolic effect of bodyweight whole-body vibration in a 20-min exercise session.” PLoS One, 13(1), e0192046.
  8. 8.Gonzalez-Munoz A, et al. (2023). “Efficacy of Photobiomodulation Therapy in the Treatment of Pain and Inflammation: A Literature Review.” Healthcare (Basel), 11(7), 938.
  9. 9.Fan T, Li Y, et al. (2024). “A systematic review and network meta-analysis on the optimal wavelength of LLLT in treating knee osteoarthritis symptoms.” Aging Clinical and Experimental Research.
  10. 10.Stausholm MB, et al. (2022). “Short- and Long-Term Effectiveness of LLLT Combined with Strength Training in Knee Osteoarthritis.” Journal of Clinical Medicine, 11(12), 3446.
  11. 11.Kenareh R, et al. (2021). “The Comparison of The Efficacy of Photobiomodulation and Ultrasound in the Treatment of Chronic Non-specific Neck Pain.” Journal of Lasers in Medical Science, 12, e20.
  12. 12.Pinto HD, et al. (2016). “Photobiomodulation Therapy Improves Performance and Accelerates Recovery of High-Level Rugby Players.” Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 30(12), 3549–3556.
  13. 13.de Andrade ALM, et al. (2016). “Use of low level laser therapy to control neuropathic pain: A systematic review.” Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 164, 36–42.
  14. 14.Martimbianco ALC, et al. (2020). “Photobiomodulation with LLLT for treating Achilles tendinopathy.” Clinical Rehabilitation, 34(6), 713–722.
  15. 15.Tumilty S, Mani R, Baxter GD. (2016). “Photobiomodulation and eccentric exercise for Achilles tendinopathy.” Lasers in Medical Science, 31(1), 127–135.
  16. 16.Yeh SW, et al. (2019). “Low-Level Laser Therapy for Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Pain Physician, 22(3), 241–254.

The MedWave System Walkthrough

This presentation gives you a complete picture of the MedWave system, and how practices like yours are integrating photobiomodulation into patient care.

Schedule a Call With Us

Let’s Explore How MedWave Fits Your Practice

Fill in a few details and our team will be in touch to arrange a personalised consultation.

Pain & Inflammation Landing: Contact Form (#6)

Global Disclaimer:
Product claims, device classifications, approved indications, and permitted marketing statements vary by country and are governed exclusively by the regulatory framework of the jurisdiction in which a product is purchased and used. Nothing on this website constitutes medical advice, and MedWave products should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care.

If you are located outside of South Africa, please disregard any medical device claims or therapeutic indications on this website. Your use of MedWave products is subject to the laws and regulations of your country of residence.
MedWave RSA PTY LTD
Unit 4 MedWave,
Blaaukrans Office Park
Blaaukrans street
Jeffreys Bay
Eastern Cape
6330
South Africa
Company number: 2024/700802/07

MedWave Group LLC
Registered company address: 1309 Coffeen Avenue, Sheridan, Wyoming, 82801
MedWave devices are not classified as medical devices and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Results may vary from person to person. The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns or before starting any new treatment or wellness program.
Fill in the form below & we will get back to you
Contact Form Demo


Fill in the form below & we will get back to you

60 days trial