Equine Wavelength Science

Red and near-infrared light therapy relies on specific wavelengths that interact with tissue in different ways. In equine photobiomodulation (PBM), wavelength selection matters because horses have dense tissue, large joints, and a wide range of application goals—from surface-level support to deeper soft-tissue and joint-adjacent areas.

Understanding how different wavelengths are commonly used helps set realistic expectations and supports appropriate application as part of a broader equine care program.

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Why Wavelength Matters in Equine Photobiomodulation

Photobiomodulation research commonly identifies wavelength as one of the primary variables influencing how light interacts with tissue. Different wavelengths interact with tissue differently, with absorption, scattering and transmission influenced by both wavelength and tissue characteristics. Wavelength selection can therefore be considered alongside the area being supported, tissue type, and intended application.

Wavelength alone does not determine outcomes. Dose, placement, duration, frequency, and individual response all play important roles. For this reason, multi-wavelength systems are often used in equine applications to support a broader range of tissue depths rather than relying on a single output.

660nm Red Light (Surface-Level Interaction)

Red light in the 660nm range generally interacts more strongly with superficial tissue interaction. In PBM literature, this wavelength is often discussed in relation to skin-level tissue, surface structures, and cellular signaling processes.

In equine use, 660nm is typically selected where surface or near-surface support is appropriate and is frequently combined with near-infrared wavelengths rather than used alone.

 

850nm Near-Infrared Light (Soft-Tissue Interaction)

Near-Infrared light around 850nm is widely used in photobiomodulation and commonly used when light is applied to larger soft-tissue regions and deeper-lying structures. This wavelength is commonly associated with muscle tissue, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and joint-adjacent structures in both human and veterinary settings.

In horses, 850nm is frequently used to support larger muscle groups and deeper structures where visible red light may have limited interaction on its own.

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940nm Near-Infrared Light (Extended Tissue Interaction)

 940nm is a near-infrared wavelength used in photobiomodulation research and light-based systems. Its interaction with tissue is influenced by wavelength, tissue composition, absorption, scattering, and the parameters used to deliver the light.

In ReGen Equine’s Tri-Wave™ system, 940nm is used alongside 660nm and 850nm to provide multiple wavelengths within the same system. This allows wavelength selection to be considered alongside the tissue and application being addressed, rather than relying on a single wavelength for every application.

 

 

 

​​ReGen Equine’s Tri-Wave™ Wavelength Structure

ReGen Equine devices are built around a Tri-Wave™ wavelength structure, combining 660nm, 850nm, and 940nm within the same system.

Tri-Wave is not a separate therapy type. It is ReGen Equine’s approach to combining three wavelengths within the same system, allowing wavelength selection to be considered according to the tissue and application being addressed.

Using multiple wavelengths recognizes that light interacts with biological tissue in wavelength-dependent ways, while factors such as tissue composition, absorption, scattering, irradiance and dose also influences the resulting response.

 

Practical Considerations & Expectations

Wavelength selection should always be considered alongside appropriate use, consistency, and realistic expectations. Red and near-infrared light therapy is intended as supportive care, not as a medical treatment or replacement for veterinary diagnosis.

Individual response varies, and light therapy is most effective when integrated thoughtfully into a comprehensive equine care plan.

For practical questions related to application, safety, and general use considerations, visit:

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