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arthritis

April 04, 2026 · 25 min read

Red Light Therapy vs. Glucosamine for Dog Joints: Which Actually Works?

Glucosamine vs. red light therapy for dog joints: compare mechanisms, onset time, monthly cost, and the research behind both approaches.

Red and near-infrared light therapy (photobiomodulation) has been studied for decades in humans and animals. Here are key findings from peer-reviewed canine research.

Looney et al., 2018

36 pets · Cornell University · Peer-reviewed

In a randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled trial of dogs with elbow osteoarthritis, 82% of dogs receiving PBM achieved a 50%+ reduction in NSAID requirements over 6 weeks. 9 of 11 treated dogs showed measurable improvement vs. 0 of 9 in the sham group.

P = 0.0003

Barale et al., 2023

Accelerometer-monitored · Objective measurement

Dogs with osteoarthritis nearly doubled their daily physical activity over 6 weeks of PBM therapy — from a mean of 93,481 steps to 179,309 steps. This represents objective, measurable improvement in mobility.

+91% daily activity

Hoisang et al., 2021

Post-surgical recovery · Multi-wavelength

The multi-wavelength PBM group (660nm + 875nm + 905nm) achieved 61.8% wound area reduction compared to 42.4% in controls within 15 days — supporting 46% faster natural recovery.

P < 0.05

Alves et al., 2022

Systematic review · Double-blinded RCT

PBM provided superior comfort scores and faster return to baseline gait function compared to meloxicam (a standard NSAID) in dogs with hip osteoarthritis.

Superior to NSAID

Our Wavelengths

The Revival Mat uses 660nm (red) + 850nm (near-infrared) at a 1:2 ratio. These are the most studied wavelengths in photobiomodulation research, and the same wavelengths used in veterinary clinic devices.

Lab Verification

Our wavelength output is independently verified by EVERFINE, a third-party photometry laboratory. We publish our lab results because most companies won't.

Results may vary. Studies referenced describe photobiomodulation research broadly, not this specific device. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Red Light Therapy vs. Glucosamine for Dog Joints: Which Actually Works?

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The Research

Looney et al., 2018

Barale et al., 2023

Hoisang et al., 2021

Alves et al., 2022

Our Wavelengths

Lab Verification

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