The science behind the Origin Linen RLT Pad

The RLT Pad uses two wavelengths of clinical-grade red and near-infrared light — 660nm and 850nm — combined with localised warmth. Here's what each does.

660nm (red light)

Penetrates ~5mm into the skin. Targets surface-level soft tissue — tendons, fascia, the outer layer of the joint capsule. Stimulates mitochondrial ATP production in these cells, which is the mechanism behind reduced inflammation and faster tissue repair.

850nm (near-infrared)

Penetrates up to 30mm, deep enough to reach the joint capsule itself. Increases local circulation and oxygen delivery to the joint. Most peer-reviewed knee osteoarthritis studies using "photobiomodulation" use 808-850nm for this reason.

Localised warmth

Heat at 40-42°C relaxes the joint capsule and reduces the overnight stiffness that makes mornings painful. It's why a hot bath feels so good for an aching knee — but the RLT Pad delivers it precisely, for 12 minutes, without the commitment.

Peer-reviewed evidence

• Brosseau et al., Cochrane Review (2007): Low-level laser therapy shows significant short-term pain relief in knee osteoarthritis.
• Alfredo et al., Lasers in Medical Science (2012): 12 weeks of daily LLLT improved WOMAC scores and range of motion in knee OA.
• Huang et al., Clinical Rehabilitation (2015): Red + near-infrared light therapy reduced pain scores and improved function in osteoarthritic knees.

What it won't do

The RLT Pad doesn't regrow cartilage and isn't a substitute for surgery if surgery is truly needed. What it does do — very well — is address the 80% of knee pain that is inflammation and soft-tissue, not structural.

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