Red & Near-Infrared Light Therapy for ME/CFS: What the Latest Research Shows

Red and near-infrared light therapy (photobiomodulation) is a promising, low-risk therapy being explored for ME/CFS.

Discover what recent pilot studies show and how it may support energy, inflammation and symptom management.

Can red light therapy support people with ME/CFS?

Red and near-infrared light therapy — often called photobiomodulation (PBM) — is becoming increasingly recognised as a gentle, non-invasive therapy that may offer support for people living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS).

Although not a cure and still in the early stages of research, pilot and feasibility studies suggest PBM could play a meaningful role in supporting energy production, reducing inflammation, and improving symptoms such as pain and sleep.

What is photobiomodulation (PBM)?

Photobiomodulation uses low-level red and near-infrared wavelengths to stimulate healthy cell function. These wavelengths interact directly with mitochondria, the energy powerhouses of our cells, and are thought to help regulate inflammation and oxidative stress.

Because mitochondrial dysfunction, immune system dysregulation and persistent inflammation are commonly described in ME/CFS research, PBM is considered a biologically plausible therapy worth studying further.

How red and infrared light may help in ME/CFS

Research suggests several mechanisms by which PBM could support people with ME/CFS:

1. Supporting mitochondrial energy production (ATP)

Red and near-infrared wavelengths stimulate mitochondrial activity, potentially improving cellular energy output.

2. Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress

PBM may help regulate inflammatory pathways that are often overactive in people with ME/CFS.

3. Improving symptoms such as pain, sleep and cognitive clarity

Studies in chronic pain and fatigue-related conditions show improvements in sleep quality, pain reduction and general wellbeing — symptoms commonly experienced by those with ME/CFS.

What the latest pilot studies say

Although large clinical trials are still needed, recent pilot studies provide encouraging early findings.

1. Light ME Up (UK Feasibility Study)

This UK pilot explored whether people with ME/CFS can safely tolerate home or clinic-based red light therapy.

Findings:Good tolerability and high participant acceptance, paving the way for larger trials.

2. Colour and Light Therapy Pilot (2024)

This study examined early symptom shifts and feasibility in individuals with chronic fatigue/ME.

Findings:Positive early signals, though not designed to confirm effectiveness.

3. Whole-body PBM research in related conditions

Research in chronic pain and fatigue populations has reported improvements in:

• pain levels

• sleep quality

• overall quality of life

While not specific to ME/CFS, these findings support further investigation into PBM for fatigue-based conditions.

Is red light therapy safe?

PBM is generally considered low risk when used correctly.

Most reported side effects are mild and temporary, such as:

• light sensitivity

• mild headache

• temporary fatigue flare (usually brief)

Individuals with photosensitivity, epilepsy, or those taking photosensitising medications should seek medical advice before starting treatment.

Takeaway: An emerging therapy with promising early evidence

Red and near-infrared light therapy is an emerging, non-invasive therapy that may offer supportive benefits for people with ME/CFS. While research is still in progress, early pilot studies show that PBM is safe, well-tolerated and worth exploring further in larger trials.

For those interested, the best approach is to work with a trained practitioner and use medically-tested devices rather than low-quality consumer products.