Best red light therapy for the knee: top devices in 2025
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Red light therapy devices are exploding in popularity, with many people using them for knee pain management. These red light products often claim to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and boost mobility.
But is red light therapy medically proven, and what are the best red light knee therapy devices most likely to assist you with pain?
I looked for research papers supporting these common device promises. Then, I gathered customer reviews, checked for certifications, and analyzed tech specs to find the best light therapy devices for knees in 2025. These are the results.
Top 5 red light therapy for knee pain devices – my shortlist
- Novaalab Deep Healing Pad – most beneficial choice for knee pain relief
- Kineon MOVE+ Pro – best for quick pain relief
- Novaa Light Pad XL – best device for wide treatment coverage
- Lifepro Light Therapy Knee Brace – the cheapest
- Nushape LipoWrap – best compact red light therapy for knee recovery
How I selected these red light therapies for knee pain devices
| Wavelength | Are red and infrared light wavelengths in the same range as suggested in scientific research on knee pain? |
| Irradiance | What is the irradiance level? Is the irradiance level in line with available scientific research on knee pain? |
| Affected area | Can the device fully cover the knee? |
| Scientific evidence | Are there research papers and clinical trials to back up claims? |
| Price | What is the overall cost? |
| Customer feedback | Are customers satisfied? |
- Wavelength. Using the manufacturers’ technical specifications, I picked RLT devices with wavelengths between 630nm and 660nm or between 810nm and 850nm, which, according to the research papers I read, show the most promise for knee pain recovery.
- Irradiance. Devices tend to range between 45 and 200 mW/cm² in irradiance levels. Irradiance is one of the additional factors in potentially increasing light skin penetration, so choose red light therapy products with the same irradiance levels used in clinical trials. . . Scientific evidence suggests that levels of 100 to 200 mW/cm² could provide enough penetration to potentially assist with knee pain.
- Affected area. Certain red light therapy devices are too small or too large to address knee pain. I looked for devices that cover the joint perfectly.
- Scientific evidence. After reviewing clinical studies and research papers, I identified the critical features of RLT devices that show the most promise for alleviating knee pain.
- Price. After listing the most promising RLT devices, I calculated each price by following the checkout procedure. This allowed me to compare the costs and find the best value options.
- Customer feedback. I determined customer satisfaction using on-site reviews, platforms like TrustPilot and forums such as Reddit. Check the "Is it safe to use red light therapy devices?" section to learn more about the process.
- Safety certifications. I looked for FDA clearance, as well as CE and RoHS certifications. These accreditations are the best indication that the device is likely safe.
- Ease of use. I investigated that handheld, wraps, and belt devices are the simplest to use. I looked for products with comprehensive help guides and premium customer support.
Best red light therapy for knee devices in 2025 – detailed list
These are the best red light knee devices I found based on product specifications, product pages, customer feedback, and scientific backing.
1. Novaalab Deep Healing Pad – the most credible
| Type | Pad |
| Wavelength | 660nm (red), 850nm (near-infrared) |
| Irradiance | Starting from 25mW/cm² |
| Starting at | $349.90 |
The Novaa Deep Healing Pad is a user-trusted red light therapy device for the knee.
Unlike many competitors, Novalab's healing pad is cleared by the FDA. The website also states it’s CE-certified (a European regulatory product safety standard) and has met RoHS standards (regulations limiting hazardous substances' use in electrical and electronic equipment).
This product is designed specifically with joints in mind. Thanks to its adjustable straps and lightweight material, it wraps snugly around the knee while remaining comfortable (according to many satisfied customers).
It uses the same wavelengths studies found to penetrate deep through the skin (up to 2 inches), potentially allowing for more light to reach the desired treatment area. .
Novaalabs is so confident in its product’s quality and effectiveness that it offers a 60-day money-back guarantee and a 3-year warranty covering you for any pre-sale defects.
Get a Novaalab discount code!
2. Kineon MOVE+ Pro – best for quick pain relief
| Type | Strap |
| Wavelength | 660 (red) and 808nm (near-infrared) |
| Irradiance | 80mW per emission area |
| Starting at | $499 |
Kineon’s MOVE+ Pro is a joint-specific red light therapy device with a unique design. It has two light emission areas and three modules, so you can target multiple parts of your knee where you are experiencing the most pain.
The MOVE+ pro is very versatile. Its adjustable straps, lightweight material, and exceptional design mean you can use it on other parts of your body as well as your knee. It works great on the head, shoulders, elbows, hips, and ankles – it’s an all-in-one solution. Plus, Kineon’s customers support the product, with 92% recommending it (based on 1,000+ on-site reviews).
The MOVE+ Pro pricing starts at $499, which is on the pricier side compared to other products, such as the Lifepro Light Therapy Knee Brace on my list.
Nonetheless, Kineon's MOVE+ Pro is eligible for HSA and FSA, so you can get it for much less. Shipping is also free in the US. You get a risk-free 30-day home trial and an option for paying in four interest-free installments.
3. Novaa Light Pad XL – best red light therapy device with a large coverage area
| Type | Pad |
| Wavelength | 660nm (red), 850nm (near-infrared) |
| Irradiance | Starting from 25mW/cm² |
| Starting at | $599.90 |
Novaa Light Pad XL stands out for its large coverage area (19.7" x 23.6"), which is ideal for targeting widespread pain. It uses red light to reach deep into tissues, muscles, and joints, potentially supporting recovery and reducing inflammation.
According to the provider, the device is, CE- and RoHS-certified, ensuring safety. For extra comfort, it comes with a lightweight design, a patented remote control, and adjustable straps for precise placement.
The product combines red and infrared light for therapy. Both wavelengths are suggested to be beneficial, and the one you choose depends on the areas you want to target. Red light sessions are thought to be more suitable for the skin surface, while infrared ones may provide deeper light penetration into muscles and joints.
The original pricing starts at $599.90, with frequent discounts on bundles and 50% reductions on specific occasions. Backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty (extendable to three years), the product ensures worry-free usage.
4. Lifepro Light Therapy Knee Brace – the cheapest
| Type | Wrap |
| Wavelength | 660 (red) and 850nm (near-infrared) |
| Irradiance | N/A |
| Starting at | $110.49 |
If the high price point of premium red light therapy devices puts you off, consider LifePro’s BioRecover™ Light Therapy Knee Brace.
As the name suggests, its design caters to the knee, fitting perfectly around the joint. Like its premium competitors, it uses 660nm and 850nm wavelengths for potential deeper tissue penetration, which might help repair deep tissue, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain.
It also has unique characteristics, such as 5 different vibration intensity levels that could potentially improve circulation and relieve pain. There are three light modes, too: Red, Near-Infrared, and Combined. However, being the cheapest on my list, it has some drawbacks.
Although it advertises a 30-day money-back guarantee, having read the terms of service, I quickly found refund restrictions. You must return the product still sealed, or you must pay a 15% fee and the return delivery cost. The good thing is that you’ll get a lifetime warranty if you decide to go for Lifepro.
Out of 138 product reviews on the official website, all were positive. However, looking at TrustPilot, I found 60 more reviews on the brand and a much lower average of 3.8 stars. Most complaints are about poor customer service and failed deliveries, which you may expect on such a low-cost device.
5. Nushape LipoWrap – best portable red light therapy for knee
| Type | Wrap |
| Wavelength | 635nm (red), 850nm (near-infrared) |
| Irradiance | N/A |
| Starting at | $549.99 |
Nushape LipoWrap is a portable red light therapy device designed primarily to help with weight loss but can also be used for overall wellness. It features LEDs emitting red and near-infrared wavelengths of light, which may help individuals who deal with pain-associated discomfort, including knee pain.
According to the provider, this innovative one-size-fits-all device applies advanced red-light phototherapy technology used in professional med-spa clinics. The greatest benefit of Nushape LipoWrap is that it offers convenience and affordability for at-home use.
You can get the device for $549.99. To clear up any doubts, the brand offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty, in an effort to ensurecustomer satisfaction.
Comparison of top 5 red therapy for knee devices
| Starting price | Key features | Certifications | Money-back guarantee | Warranty | |
| Novaalab Deep Healing Pad | $349.90 | Convenient design for use on knees and other body parts | FDA-cleared, CE, RoHS certified | 60 days | Three years |
| Kineon MOVE+ Pro | $499 | Designed with knees in mind, support two light emission areas | Not specified | 30 days | One year |
| Novaa Light Pad XL | $599.90 | Large coverage area for widespread pain | CE and RoHS-certified | 60 days | One year (extendable to three years) |
| Lifepro Light Therapy Knee Brace | $110.49 | Three light modes, 5 vibration settings | Not specified | 30 days (fees may apply) | Lifetime |
| Nushape | $549.99 | Advanced technology for at-home therapy, suitable for various body parts | Not specified | 30 days | One year |
What are the potential benefits of red light treatment for knee pain?
The main suggested benefits of red light therapy for knee pain, according to the manufacturers of such devices, include:
- Improved circulation. I found several studies pointing to red light treatment stimulating vasodilation. Given that vasodilation is the process of widening the blood vessels and improving blood flow, some evidence suggests that red light therapy (primarily 670nm) may boost circulation.
- Reduced inflammation. A review of photobiomodulation studies highlighted that there is a growing amount of evidence that red light may reduce inflammation. However, the exact mechanisms aren’t fully understood yet.
- Reduced pain. Research has shown that red light therapy has the potential to reduce joint pain. One study conducted in individuals with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) has shown that those undergoing the therapy have reported a greater reduction in joint pain compared to the placebo group.
Overall, there are limited clinical trials, and I need many more large-scale clinical trials to evaluate whether these devices are effective for sure.
What are the negatives of red light treatment for knee pain?
While there are no negative side effects of red light treatment, there are still some drawbacks, most notably:
- Inconsistent results. Users sometimes complain that they don’t see results from using these devices. For instance, I’ve come across a few testimonials complaining that they didn’t get any pain relief from Kineon MOVE+ Pro.
- High cost. As you’ve seen from the devices I’ve recommended, they usually cost at least $500 or $600, which is certainly a premium price. Naturally, there are cheaper products on the market, but they don’t typically offer the same quality and usually serve a different purpose.
- Time commitment. You usually have to use these products daily for 10-20 minutes. Moreover, treatments can last for weeks or even months, so it will often be a significant time commitment. This might not appeal to everyone since they can’t replace conventional treatment.
How do you use red light therapy devices for your knees?
To use a red light therapy device on your knee:
- Read the manual. Your device’s manual will contain all the necessary information you need, including session times and safety guidelines.
- Prepare the knee. Ensure your knee or knees are clean and dry for hygiene and safety.
- Position the device. The LEDs should face the area of the knee you intend to treat.
- Set the time. Most devices have a built-in timer. Sessions should typically last 10-20 minutes. Check the manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation for your specific device.
- Switch on. While wearing eye protection, power on the device.
- End the session. If the device doesn’t shut down automatically, switch it off after the designated time.
- Moisturize. Red light can produce a slight warmth, which can dry out your skin.
- Repeat. This therapy is usually a multi-session process. Redo these steps according to your treatment plan.
Is it safe to use red light therapy devices?
To assess the safety of red light therapy devices, we analyzed user reviews on Reddit and TrustPilot. This method provided insights into real-life usage scenarios and offered first-hand accounts of the devices' safety in practice.
Simply put, yes, it’s generally safe to use red light therapy devices, provided you use a trusted brand with the correct certifications.
Red light therapy uses LEDs, which do not produce high heat. The procedure is painless and non-invasive.
Red light therapy is generally safe in clinical trials when used for short periods. However, to avoid overexposure, it’s best to consult a professional healthcare practitioner.
It’s also important to note that not all red light therapy devices are identical, and some may be unsafe.
To get a safe red light therapy device, consider certifications such as CE and ROHS. FDA clearance is the best sign that your device is likely safe for human use.
Alternative knee pain relief devices
Red Light Therapy isn’t your only option. You can try the following:
- Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) is a therapy that focuses on muscle strengthening. It uses electrical current to stimulate nerves and muscles. It’s believed that this stimulation may improve muscle function, promote healing, and reduce pain.
- Vibratory stimulation devices use vibrations in the targeted pain area. These vibrations may improve blood flow and reduce chronic pain. Like red light therapy, vibration therapy is a noninvasive procedure that can be done at home.
- Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS.) TENS devices focus on pain relief. This method uses a gentle electrical pulse, blocking pain signals from reaching the brain and acting like a natural pain killer.
Other red light therapy devices to increase your well-being
There are other red light therapy devices you can check out to increase your well-being, including:
Best red light therapy devices: ranging from specialized devices to all-body use
Best red light therapy for the face: for addressing wrinkles, acne and smoothing the skin
Best red light therapy panel: for a complete body treatment
Best red light therapy for knee devices: conclusion
Novaalab’s Healing Pad is the best red light therapy device for the knee. It is cleared by the FDA. Plus, it has CE and RoHS certifications. It shows the most promise, backed by its 3-year warranty, 60-day money-back guarantee, and hundreds of satisfied customers. However, it’s pretty expensive.
Kineon’s therapy device has the best design for knees, fitting perfectly over the joint and allowing for more precise targeting. But it’s the more expensive product on my list.
Nushape’s Mini is a more affordable solution (almost half the price) with similar-quality technology. But it doesn’t disclose any certification and has yet to be FDA-cleared.
FAQ
Does red light therapy help knees?
It’s possible that red light therapy may help with knee pain. Some studies show that red light improves circulation and reduces inflammation – both beneficial for knee issues. But, more research is still needed to say for sure that red light therapy helps the knees.
How long should I use the red light on my knees?
Most red light therapy manufacturers recommend a 10-20-minute session on multiple days, usually lasting 10 days or more. Each device is different and often has different time recommendations. So, you should use red light therapy for the time recommended in the manual after consulting with a licensed healthcare practitioner.
Can red light therapy heal torn meniscus?
It depends. Some studies of low-level light therapy found it to potentially reduce symptoms in some individuals with meniscal tear. However, you should always consult a medical professional for an appropriate treatment plan based on your personal situation as it may require other therapies and even surgery.
Does red light therapy heal tendons and ligaments?
Yes, red light therapy does seem to promote tendon repair to an extent, according to some studies. The wavelengths reportedly impact how the cells produce antioxidants and energy and this change is theorized to help with tissue repair.
