Pain can be made lighter with infrared device

WEST LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Molecular biologist Jon Weston demonstrates to Dr. Andrew Pritikin the LumiWave, an infrared-light machine that is said to trigger repair mechanisms in the body to reduce pain.

"We are cleared for FDA use on strains, sprains, back pain and arthritis. It's not going to cure arthritis but will curb pain and aid in flexibility," said Weston, the CEO of BioCare Systems.

The low-level light releases nitric oxide, a natural body chemical that increases blood flow and stimulates the lymphatic system for drainage. Both help reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain.

"It's non-invasive, you can't hurt yourself with it and it's very localized in its effect," said Weston.

The consumer places one or two bands on the injured area; the low-level light does the rest.

The consumer turns it off after 20 minutes and can repeat it every six hours as needed.

Until recently this technology was only found in a doctor's office.

The medical community has machines that are very expensive - usually around $7,000, but the home units are much cheaper. And Pritikin says some have merit.

"Light really is going to be, excuse the pun, the wave of healing," Pritikin said. "It's easy, it's relatively safe. If they can bring the cost down, efficiency up, it will be a common household item."

Having studied the concept for over a decade Pritikin especially appreciates the selectiveness of technology.

"If the cell isn't damaged it won't accept the light because the cell doesn't need it. But the cells that do need it will take it in. Absolutely fascinating," Pritikin said.

The LumiWave home model averages about $500 and it's been so popular that its current shipping is by the end of September.