FAR INFRARED VS. NIR TECHNOLOGY: HOW ARE THEY DIFFERENT FROM EACH OTHER?
Near Infrared Radiation, better known as the acronym NIR, has become increasingly popular as people continue to figure out its benefits. NIR technology offers performance-boosting properties, therapeutic properties, and medical effects. For instance, it is used in Bright Health’s Red Light Therapy Foot Pain Relief Device, which delivers targeted, low-level red and near infrared light to the feet of users.
This wavelength of light boosts blood circulation in the feet and helps reduce inflammation and soothes pain. The device is simple to use – simply plug it in, place your feet on the device’s paddles for a few minutes each day, and feel the effects immediately.
But going back to our original question: What is the difference between infrared and NIR technology? And what exactly are they and how do they work? Also, perhaps the most important question is can it help you? Keep reading to discover the answers!
What is Infrared Energy?
In this section, we start with the question: Infrared Technology Vs. NIR technology: How Are They Different From Each Other? Surprisingly, one is just part of the other.
To explain, NIR is part of the infrared color spectrum, just like the two other categories of infrared energies, far-infrared (FIR) and mid-infrared, are. In other words, NIR takes its place as one of three different classes that make infrared energy. Before we go any further, though, it’s best to develop an understanding of how infrared energy works, as opposed to simply discussing the purpose of this energy.
Infrared takes its place as part of the red color spectrum and is an example of electromagnetic radiation. Its wavelength is shorter than microwaves but longer than visible light (700 nm to 1mm). Due to its specific properties, it’s actually invisible to humans in the majority of cases.
Infrared Energy: How Does it Work?
Infrared leads to radiation being emitted, which in turn causes motion to occur between molecular bonds. As this motion occurs, energy is naturally released. Anything that radiates heat, has a thermal signature, etc. comes from infrared radiation.
The Three Parts of Infrared Energy
There are three common energy classifications that were decided upon by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE): Near-infrared, mid-infrared, and far-infrared.
- Near-infrared waves have the most energy and are the shortest. Their wavelengths range from 0.7-1.4 μm (700-1,400 nm). They’re commonly used in items such as fiber optics and TV remote control signals. More importantly–if you suffer from foot pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis and diabetic neuropathy, the NIR technology used in Bright Health’s therapeutic Red Light Therapy Foot Pain Relief Device to help bring healing and pain relief.
- Mid-infrared waves have less energy but longer waves than near-infrared. It gives off moderate heat when compared to near-infrared and far-infrared regions. They have a wavelength of 1.4-3.0 μm (1,400-3000 nm) and are used in night vision goggles and the vibrational spectroscopy that plays a role in food security. Mid-infrared tech is even used for IR homing against heat-seeking missiles.
- Far-infrared waves have the least energy and the longest waves. They have a wavelength between 3.0-100 μm (3,000 nm-0.1 mm). According to the NIH National Library of Medicine, this is the only class of infrared that “transfers energy purely in the form of heat, which can be perceived by the thermoreceptors in human skin as radiant heat.” Far-infrared waves are used in products like IR heating lamps and saunas, FIR ray devices and FIR emitting fabrics and garments.
Here forward, NIR should be replacing FIR. You can remove this next section, but I removed a lot of the concentration on FIR. This section segues into NIR nicely without having a big old chop in the middle of the article.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FAR INFRARED (FAR) AND FIR?
FIR and FAR are often used interchangeably, although they don’t mean the exact same thing. Sometimes it gets extra confusing as FIR is occasionally shortened to FAR. There is a difference, though. As noted, FIR refers to far-infrared wavelengths, also known as the longest wavelengths. You see, this is due to the fact that FIR is a category of infrared. Meanwhile, FAR is a commonly used abbreviation of Far Infrared or Far Infrared Radiation.
We can also think of the two in the context of far infrared vs. near infrared as NASA researchers stated:
“Infrared light has a range of wavelengths, just like visible light has wavelengths that range from red light to violet. "Near infrared" light is closest in wavelength to visible light and "far infrared" is closer to the microwave region of the electromagnetic spectrum.”
HISTORY OF Near INFRARED THERAPY
In 1967, Professor Endre Mester of Hungary, a pioneer of laser medicine, discovered the potential healing power of Near Infrared (NIR) radiation while conducting research on lab rats. He noticed that NIR therapy could speed up the healing process and reduce inflammation in tissue exposed to NIR light. His findings were groundbreaking and led to further investigation into the benefits of NIR technology.
Later in the 1970’s, NASA used near infrared in its space program to help astronauts heal from injuries sustained during their time in space. A few decades later, Near Infrared Light Therapy was officially approved by the FDA for use on humans as a non-invasive treatment for bruises and swelling.
Near INFRARED BENEFITS
Studies show that you can receive a wide range of benefits from using NIR technology, including:
- Reduced inflammation and swelling·
- Alleviation of joint and muscle pain
- Increased vascularization
- Improved immune system functioning
The effects also benefit you by promoting reduced stiffness and pain, faster healing time for injuries, and better overall circulation.
HOW IS NIR USED IN RED LIGHT THERAPY?
The FSA and HSA approved Red Light Therapy Foot Pain Relief Device is powered by NIR technology. Simply sit down and place your feet on the light device. As soon as your feet connect with the device, you’ll begin receiving therapy that goes below your skin’s surface. This will provide cellular reproduction, oxygenation, cellular repair, and cell stimulation.
Use the Red Light Therapy Foot Pain Relief Device for:
- Relaxing muscles, repairing tissues, and accelerating healing
- An all-natural, drug-free pain solution
- Help with pain from Arthritis, Neuropathy, Plantar Fasciitis, and Tendonitis
- Enhancing recovery from injuries and exercise
- Relieving stiffness and general foot pain
- A super easy cleanup
OTHER FEATURES OF RED LIGHT THERAPY FOOT PAIN RELIEF DEVICE
- FDA compliant Red Light Natural Pain Relief and Infrared
- OTC Class II Medical Device
- Delivers the technology via 124 medical-grade Red Light and Infrared LEDs
- Delivers 660nm Red Light and 880nm Infrared Light
- Smooth finish with a sleek, angled design
- 100% product guarantee
LEARN HOW NIR ENERGY CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR LIFE TODAY!
If you’re looking for a product that allows you to perform your best, then your search is over! Powered by NIR technology, this foot platform can help you painlessly achieve relaxed muscles, tissue repair, and accelerated healing. This will allow you to get back on your feet in no time!