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How LED treatment supports recovery and performance in horses

Understand how targeted wavelengths of red and infrared light support recovery, circulation and tissue repair in horses.

Scientifically proven

How LED treatment works in the horse’s body

LED Treatment is based on photobiomodulation, a well studied biological effect where specific wavelengths of light interact with cells.

These wavelengths stimulate the mitochondria, the structures in each cell responsible for producing energy.

When cellular energy increases, the body can repair tissue more efficiently, support circulation and recover faster after strain or injury.

Why mitochondria matter for muscle repair

Mitochondria are often called the “powerhouses” of the cell because they produce the energy that every cell needs to function. In muscle cells, this energy is essential for repairing small muscle strains that occur during training. Healthy, active mitochondria ensure that muscle fibres recover faster, grow stronger, and maintain flexibility.

How ATP production affects strength & resilience

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) is the energy molecule that powers every cell. When ATP levels are high, cells can repair and regenerate more efficiently, which directly translates into stronger muscles, better endurance, and improved resilience to strain. For horses, this means not only faster recovery after exercise but also a reduced risk of overuse injuries.

Why LED light activates natural healing

Specific wavelengths of LED light penetrate tissue and are absorbed by the mitochondria. This stimulation increases ATP production, boosts circulation, and reduces inflammation, all without invasive procedures or medications. In essence, the treatment supports the body’s normal repair processes, helping the body do what it is already designed to do, but faster and more effectively.

LED vs laser therapy

Both technologies rely on the same biological principle: photobiomodulation.

Laser devices deliver concentrated light from a single point. LED systems distribute light across a larger treatment area, making them suitable for muscles, tendons and joints in horses.

This allows consistent coverage without the need for precise positioning during treatment.

Why wavelength selection matters

Light interacts with biological tissue differently depending on the wavelength used. Some wavelengths act closer to the surface, while others penetrate deeper into muscles, tendons and joints.

For photobiomodulation to work effectively, the light must fall within the optical window, a range where biological tissue allows light to pass through and reach the cells.

LED by CHEVAL systems use four selected wavelengths of red and infrared light between 660 and 850 nm. Together, they support both surface level tissue and deeper anatomical structures during each treatment session.

Four selected wavelengths within the therapeutic optical window

Each wavelength has a unique role in equine care. By combining red and infrared light in carefully selected ranges, our systems address both surface-level healing and deep tissue recovery, ensuring your horse receives complete and effective support.

660/670 nm (red)

  • Depth: ~1–2 cm
  • Benefits: Wound healing, tissue repair, improved circulation, reduced inflammation.

730 nm (red to near infrared range)

  • Depth: ~2–3 cm
  • Benefits: Reduces inflammation, relieves pain, promotes collagen & tissue regeneration.

810 nm (near-infrared)

  • Depth: ~3–4 cm
  • Benefits: Reaches deeper muscles, tendons and joints, improves oxygenation & recovery.

850 nm (Infrared)

  • Depth: ~4–5 cm
  • Benefits: Pain relief, supports circulation and fluid balance in tissue, swelling reduction, hard & soft tissue healing.

Disclaimer:The wavelength icons are simplified visual representations created to illustrate the relative differences between red and near-infrared light. They are not drawn to physical scale, as the actual variations in wavelength occur at a nanometer level and are not visible to the human eye.

Support your horse’s performance and recovery

Our LED treatment systems are designed to support performance and recovery, every day.