Light Therapy
In the 20 years since the discovery of light therapy, hundreds of studies have demonstrated the validity of light therapy for the treatment of circadian rhythm disorders. Bright light therapy involves daily exposure to a bright light source of accepted therapeutic intensity with exposure duration of a set period of time and distance. Light therapy has proven safe and highly effective when used under the supervision of a trained clinician or physician. The time of day one uses the light is as critical as the quality of the light device.
Risks of Unsupervised Light therapy
Light therapy should not be initiated before a proper sleep assessment and medical diagnosis of circadian rhythm disorder. Clinically effective light therapy is based on an individualized treatment plan based on lifestyle and sleep-wake needs. Using the light at the wrong time of day will cause a non-response, and may aggravate symptoms.
Steps for Light Therapy
1. Sleep Assessment
Evaluation process for circadian rhythm disorders
- Sleep and Activity diary
- Morningness / Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ)
- Actigraphy with Actiwatch® if necessary
Consultation with a Clinical Specialist
Complete Sleep History and Evaluation report provided to the referring physician.
For patients outside of BC, we offer consultations via email. You may also consult your physician for a Mood and Sleep Disorders Program near you.
2. Light Therapy Treatment Plan:
Once your sleep assessment is completed we will develop an individualized treatment plan for you. We offer a treatment schedule, sleep hygiene suggestions, and instructions for the use of the light box.
Light therapy technology has come a long way and are now available in full spectrum and LED light sources. For patients who prefer the traditional full spectrum light box, the Day-Light Classic or the briteLITE 6 is a great option. There are also smaller light boxes using LED technology such as the the Philips GoLITE Blue that is ultra portable and can be incorporated into any daily routine.
Rentals: rent a light box for a weekly fee. (Only available to patients in BC patients only.)
Sale: purchase a light box.
Therapy: Treatment times are typically 15 minutes to 60 minutes daily, at a specific time of day, with increasing or decreasing doses. The treatment will be tailored to your lifestyle and desired sleep patterns.
3. Results:
We will monitor your treatment and compliance with an activity and sleep diary, and with a follow-up sleep assessment. This will help the Clinical Specialist adjust your light dosage and schedule based on your response to therapy. We will be available to answer any questions you may have, and will provide equipment warranties and support.
Clinical Sleep Solutions is one of the leaders in sleep therapy. Our unique light therapy program is the first of its kind in Canada. We are the only clinic to offer a combination of therapeutic service and medial equipment to treat circadian rhythm disorders. Our Medical Directors and advisors are forefront in the practice of mood and sleep disorders.
We believe that a customized treatment plan and follow-up program is critical to maximize the benefits of light therapy. Why suffer any longer? Ask your physician for a referral to have a Sleep Assessment at a Clinical Sleep Solutions.
Stay current with technology and developments for sleep apnea & CPAP therapy products with our quarterly newsletter.
