Light treatment system

Abstract

A light therapy system is comprised of a pressure cuff system having a cuff positionable on or near a body part of a user and receiving pressurized air to selectively pressurize and depressurize the cuff, and a light emitting system configured to emit light to the cuff. The light emitting system has a support structure and a light emitter positioned on the support structure, the light emitter being controllably powered. The support structure is positionable on the inner surface of the cuff such that the light emitter may direct light onto the body part. The light therapy system may also include a controller capable of controllably providing power to the light emitter, where the controller may adjust an intensity or duration of light directed onto the body part in response to an input or measurement relating to a state of the body part. A photometer may be provided individually or integrally to measure the state of a body part. A method of providing light therapy is also provided.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62 / 802,686, filed February 7, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND

[0002] Photobiomodulation (PBM) or low-level light therapy (LLLT) involves the application of light from lasers and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to living tissue to produce a photobiostimulation effect. The application of light from lasers and LEDs to living tissue is performed using wavelengths between 600 and 1000 nm and powers from 5 to 500 mW. Studies have shown that PBM accelerates wound healing, improves microcirculation, and improves muscle performance. In most studies, infrared (IR) light sources are placed on or near the surface of the body to produce a therapeutic dose of light of 0.5 to 5.0 J / cm2. A variety of light sources include commercially available LEDs and laser diodes packaged in integrated circuits. Some laser-based devices are pulsed to deliver higher instantaneous radiant intensity without thermally damaging the tissue being treated. 2

[0003] A biphasic dose-response effect is well established in PBM therapy, where above and below a certain optimal dosage range, any therapeutic gain is reduced. Thus, precise PBM dosing of muscle is critical to gain benefits, but it is hampered by the limited and variable depth of penetration of IR light applied on the skin surface to treat the tissue under the skin surface.

[0004] Inside the tissue, the photons are either scattered or absorbed. The therapeutic gain is obtained when the light is absorbed by the mitochondria in the muscle. On most parts of the body, some of the IR light penetrates through the skin, while the underlying fat layer scatters the photons in a random pattern. Some photons continue to the underlying muscle fibers, where the IR energy is absorbed by the chromophores. The beneficial effects of IR radiation on muscle tissue increase the mitochondrial membrane potential, oxygen consumption, and production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Since the IR light through the fat is scattered randomly, it is challenging to deliver a precise dose of IR fluence to the muscles of the body, as humans have varying levels of skin melanin and fat layer thickness throughout the body.

[0005] ​Near IR photometry is used in some commercial products (such as Lipochrom, SATmeter, FUTREX) to non-invasively measure skin fat thickness. This method uses light transmitted into the skin by infrared emitting diodes. This radiation penetrates the tissue and is reflected, absorbed and scattered according to the optical properties of the tissue. The radiation emanating from the skin is detected at multiple distances between the source and detector of the optical measurement system and then processed to infer the amount of light absorbed by the skin and reflected back from the fat layer.

[0006] Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) devices are used medically to help prevent blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) in the deep veins of the legs. These devices use inflatable cuffs that are typically placed around the leg. The cuffs fill with air and squeeze the leg. After the air is released, blood flows back through the veins and helps prevent blood clots. Recently, these devices have been used by athletes to improve circulation and promote muscle recovery after exercise. In addition, IPC devices are commercially available and are often marketed to provide automated massage therapy. IPC devices come in a variety of forms to treat different parts of the body and muscle groups. Leg units cover the foot and leg up to the thigh. Pants start above the knee and extend up to above the waist. Some cuffs cover the hand and arm up to the shoulder.

[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for an improved light therapy system. There is also a need for a light therapy system with improved and / or more consistent dosing. There is also a need for a light therapy system with improved light delivery to muscle. There is also a need for improved and / or coordinated fat layer thickness determination. There is also a need for a light therapy system for use in conjunction with intermittent pneumatic compression devices. SUMMARY

[0008] The present invention satisfies these needs. In one aspect of the invention, an improved light therapy system and method of providing therapeutic light is provided.

[0009] In another aspect of the invention, a light therapy system and method of use provides improved dosing and / or more consistent dosing.

[0010] In another aspect of the invention, a light therapy system and method of use provides improved light therapy delivery to muscle of a user.

[0011] In another aspect of the invention, a light therapy system and method of use utilizes fat layer thickness information to improve light therapy.

[0012] In another aspect of the application, a light therapy system and method of use utilizes skin color information to improve light therapy.

[0013] In another aspect of the application, an improved fat layer thickness determination and method is provided.

[0014] In another aspect of the application, a light therapy system and method of use is used in conjunction with an intermittent pneumatic compression device.

[0015] In another aspect of the application, a light therapy system includes a pressure cuff system including a cuff positionable on or near a body part of a user and receivable of pressurized air to selectively pressurize and depressurize the cuff, and a light emission system including a support structure and a light emitter positioned on the support structure, the light emitter controllably powerable; wherein the support structure is positionable on an inner surface of the cuff such that the light emitter can direct light onto the body part, and wherein the light emitter has a light emission surface at a sufficient height from the support structure such that the light emission surface can be pressed into skin and a fat layer of the body part when the cuff is pressurized.

[0016] In another aspect of the application, a light therapy system includes a pressure cuff system including a cuff positionable on or near a body part of a user and receivable of pressurized air to selectively pressurize and depressurize the cuff, and a light emission system including a support structure and a light emitter positioned on the support structure, the light emitter controllably powerable; wherein the support structure is positionable on an inner surface of the cuff such that the light emitter can direct light onto the body part, and wherein the light emitter has a light emission surface at a sufficient height from the support structure such that the light emission surface can be pressed into skin and a fat layer of the body part when the cuff is pressurized, wherein the light emitter includes a plurality of light emitter arrays, each light emitter array associated with a different muscle group of the body part.

[0017] In another aspect of the application, a light therapy system comprises: a pressure cuff system comprising a cuff positionable on or near a body part of a user and receivable of pressurized air to selectively pressurize and depressurize the cuff; and a light emission system comprising a support structure and a light emitter positioned on the support structure, the light emitter controllably powerable; wherein the support structure is positionable on an inner surface of the cuff such that the light emitter can direct light onto the body part, and wherein the light emitter has a light emission surface at a sufficient height from the support structure such that the light emission surface can be pressed into a skin and fat layer of the body part when the cuff is pressurized, and the light therapy system further comprises a light meter capable of measuring a characteristic of the body part.

[0018] In another aspect of the application, a light therapy system comprises: a pressure cuff system comprising a cuff positionable on or near a body part of a user and receivable of pressurized air to selectively pressurize and depressurize the cuff; a light emission member comprising a support structure and a light emitter positioned on the support structure, wherein the support structure is positionable on an inner surface of the cuff such that the light emitter can direct light onto the body part; and a controller controllably powerable to the light emitter, wherein the controller can adjust an intensity or duration of light directed onto the body part in response to an input or measurement related to a state of the body part.

[0019] In another aspect of the application, a light therapy system comprises: a pressure cuff system comprising a cuff positionable on or near a body part of a user and receivable of pressurized air to selectively pressurize and depressurize the cuff; a light emission member comprising a support structure and a light emitter positioned on the support structure, wherein the support structure is positionable on an inner surface of the cuff such that the light emitter can direct light onto the body part; and a controller controllably powerable to the light emitter, wherein the controller can adjust an intensity or duration of light directed onto the body part in response to an input or measurement related to a state of the body part, wherein the controller adjusts the intensity or duration of light in response to a thickness of a fat layer of the body part.

[0020] In another aspect of the application, a light therapy system includes a pressure cuff system including a cuff that can be positionable on or near a body part of a user and that can receive pressurized air to selectively pressurize and depressurize the cuff, a light emitting member including a support structure and a light emitter positioned on the support structure, wherein the support structure is positionable on an inner surface of the cuff such that the light emitter can direct light onto the body part, and a controller that can controllably provide power to the light emitter, wherein the controller can adjust an intensity or duration of the light directed onto the body part in response to an input or measurement related to a state of the body part, and further including a light meter, and wherein the controller adjusts the intensity or duration of the light in response to a signal from the light meter.

[0021] In another aspect of the application, a light therapy system includes a pressure cuff system including a cuff that can be positionable on or near a body part of a user and that can receive pressurized air to selectively pressurize and depressurize the cuff, a light emitting member including a support structure and a light emitter positioned on the support structure, wherein the support structure is positionable on an inner surface of the cuff such that the light emitter can direct light onto the body part, and a controller that can controllably provide power to the light emitter, wherein the controller can adjust an intensity or duration of the light directed onto the body part in response to an input or measurement related to a state of the body part, the light therapy system further including a plurality of light meters, and wherein the controller adjusts the intensity or duration of the light in response to signals from the light meters, wherein the light meters generate signals related to a thickness of a fat layer of the body part or a transmissivity of the body part, wherein the light emitter includes a plurality of light emitter arrays, each light emitter array being associated with a different muscle group of the body part, and wherein each light meter is positionable on the inner surface of the cuff proximate a corresponding array.

[0022] In another aspect of the application, a method of providing light therapy includes providing a pressure cuff having a light emitter on an inner surface thereof, positioning the cuff on or near a body part, inflating the cuff and pressing the light emitter directly or indirectly against skin of the body part, determining an intensity or duration of light to be applied to the body part from the light emitter relative to a state of the body part, and providing power to the light emitter such that the light is applied to the body part at the determined intensity or duration.

[0023] In another aspect of the application, a method of providing light therapy includes providing a pressure cuff having a light emitter on an inner surface thereof; positioning the cuff on or near a body part; inflating the cuff and pressing the light emitter directly or indirectly against the skin of the body part; determining an intensity or duration of light to be applied to the body part from the light emitter relative to a state of the body part; and providing power to the light emitter so that light is applied to the body part at the determined intensity or duration, further, using a luminometer to measure the state of the body part and using the measurement to determine the intensity or duration of light.

[0024] In another aspect of the application, a light therapy system includes a luminometer having a concentric ring of luminometer light emitters and a central photodetector.

[0025] In another aspect of the application, a method of providing light therapy includes providing a luminometer; using the luminometer to determine a state of a body part; and applying light therapy to the body part at an intensity or duration related to the state of the body part. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0026] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present application will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood, however, that the description and specific examples are given by way of illustration only and that the application is not limited to the specific features, aspects, and advantages described. Figure 1A is a schematic side view of a light therapy system according to the present application; Figure 1B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the light therapy system of Figure 1A in an unpressurized state; Figure 1C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the light therapy system of Figure 1A in a pressurized state; Figure 2A is a schematic top view of a scheme for an array of light emitters of a light therapy system; Figure 2B is a schematic top view of another scheme for an array of light emitters of a light therapy system; Figure 3A is a schematic top view of a monitoring system of a light therapy system; Figure 3B is a schematic side view of the monitoring system of Figure 3A ; and Figure 3C is a schematic top view of another scheme for a monitoring system of a light therapy system; Figure 4This is a schematic side view of another embodiment of the phototherapy system of the present invention; Figure 5 It is a schematic open view of the arrangement of the light emitters in a phototherapy system; Figure 6 This is a schematic exploded view of the pressure cuff system of the phototherapy system; Figure 7 It is a schematic representation of the display of the controller of the phototherapy system; Figure 8A This is a schematic exploded view of another embodiment of the pressure cuff system for phototherapy. Figure 8B This is a schematic exploded view of another embodiment of the pressure cuff system for phototherapy. Figure 9A This is a graph showing the results of multiple simulations using infrared photons, which varied melanin content ranging from fair to dark skin color and fat thickness ranging from 3 mm to 10 mm; and Figure 9B It is a graph showing how the re-emission of light from the skin surface varies with distance from the light emitter. Detailed Implementation

[0027] This invention relates to a phototherapy system. In particular, it relates to a phototherapy system comprising or capable of being used with a pressure cuff. Although the invention is shown and described in a context that can be associated with intermittent pneumatic compression, it can be used in other ways, as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention should not be limited to the examples and embodiments described herein.

[0028] Figure 1A A phototherapy system 100 of the present invention is shown. The phototherapy system 100 includes, or can be used with, a pressure cuff system 105. The pressure cuff system 105 includes a pressure cuff 110 that can be received around, adjacent to, or near at least a portion of a body part (such as a limb). Figure 1AIn the illustrated embodiment, the cuff 110 is shown wrapped around a user's leg 115. The pressure cuff system 105 also includes a control system 120 that controls and / or monitors the pressurization of the cuff 110. The control system 120 includes a pressure controller 125 that is capable of controlling the operation of an air pump 130, such as an electric air pump or a pressurized air source, so that pressurized air can be delivered through a line 135 to the cuff 110 to inflate or pressurize the cuff 110. The pressure controller 130 can receive information from a pressure sensor 140 and can control the application of pressure to the cuff 110 in response to the received pressure data. The pressure controller 130 can also be capable of controlling a pressure gate 145 within the line 135. The pressure gate 145 can include a solenoid and / or a venting mechanism to allow the cuff 110 to be selectively pressurized and depressurized.

[0029] The light therapy system 100 also includes a light emission system 150 that can be positioned within the cuff 110 of the pressure cuff system 105 so that light can be applied to a portion of the leg 115 or other body part within the cuff 110. The light emission system 150 includes one or more light emission members 155 that include a support structure 160 that supports one or more light emitters 165. The light emission system 150 is controllably connected to a light emission controller 175 of the control system 120, such as through wires 170 and / or wireless technology. The light emission controller 175 is capable of controlling and / or monitoring the application of light, including the dosage or amount of light applied to the leg 115 or other body part. The dosage or amount of light applied refers to the intensity and / or duration of the light application. Optionally, the light emission controller 175 can be incorporated into or in communication with the pressure controller 125 so that the application of pressure and the application of light can be responsive to each other and / or coordinated together. The support structure 160 can take the form of a printed circuit board or the like through which power and / or control can be provided to each of the light emitters 165.

[0030] Figure 1B and Figure 1C A cross-sectional view of the light emission system 150 is shown positioned within the cuff 110 of the pressure cuff system 105 so that the light emitters 165 can be proximate to the leg 115 or other body part and can deliver light to the body part. For example, the light emission member 155 or the light emitters 165 can be positioned on or in an interior surface of the cuff 110. The cuff 110 is made of a flexible material and includes a hollow space 180 that is in communication with the line 135 of pressurized air. The hollow space 180 can be selectively pressurized and depressurized to inflate and deflate the cuff 110. Figure 1B A cross-sectional view of the light emission system 150 is shown positioned within the cuff 110 of the pressure cuff system 105 so that the light emitters 165 can be proximate to the leg 115 or other body part and can deliver light to the body part. For example, the light emission member 155 or the light emitters 165 can be positioned on or in an interior surface of the cuff 110. The cuff 110 is made of a flexible material and includes a hollow space 180 that is in communication with the line 135 of pressurized air. The hollow space 180 can be selectively pressurized and depressurized to inflate and deflate the cuff 110. Figure 1CThe cuff is shown in a pressurized state. As can be seen, in an unpressurized state, the light emitter 165 rests or is supported near the skin 185 of the leg 115 or other body part, and the skin 185 does not have a significant deformation. However, when in a pressurized state as shown in Figure 1C The pressure of the cuff 110 compresses the light emitter 165 into the skin 185 when in a pressurized state as shown in FIG. 1. When sufficient pressure is applied, the light emitter 165 can be pressed further into the fat layer 186 so that it is close to the muscle 187. Optionally, a spacer 190 or the like can be provided if it is desired to increase the thickness of the light emitter 165 and extend the distance of the light emitter from the support structure 160. Also optionally, a cover layer 195 made of a light-transmissive material can be provided to cover the light emitter 165 so that it does not directly contact the skin 185. Alternatively, the cover layer 195 can be removed and the light emitter can directly contact the skin 185.

[0031] In one aspect, the light therapy system 100 can be used to administer therapeutic light to the leg 115 or other body part within or near the cuff 115. For example, the light therapy system 100 can be used to administer a photobiomodulation therapy (also known as low-level light therapy), in which light from a laser or light-emitting diode (LED) is applied to living tissue. When administered using light from each light source having a wavelength varying between about 600 and 1000 nm, and a power varying in a range from 5 to 500 mW, the administered therapeutic light produces a photobiostimulatory effect. The photobiostimulatory effect has been shown to accelerate wound healing, improve circulation, and / or improve muscle performance. The light therapy system 100 of the present invention improves upon previous attempts at light therapy by incorporating the light therapy within a compression cuff system 105 that applies pressure to the light-emitting system 150 to press the light emitter 165 into the skin 185 and closer to the muscle 187 or other treatment target. By positioning the light emitter 165 closer to the muscle, a better treatment effect can be achieved and / or a higher light application efficiency can be achieved. When light is applied to the surface of the skin 185, the photons are scattered or absorbed. In the fat tissue 186, scattering is particularly prevalent. The positioning of the light emitter 165 closer to the muscle 187 and the compression of the fat layer 186 allow for increased absorption of the photons by the muscle and reduced scattering. When the photons are absorbed by the mitochondria in the muscle, a treatment effect is achieved. Beneficial effects of photon absorption are believed to include increases in mitochondrial membrane potential, oxygen consumption, and production of adenosine triphosphate.

[0032] In one aspect of the light therapy system, the one or more light emitters 165 include one or more light emitting diodes. In one particular aspect, the light emitters 165 are configured to emit light consisting of wavelengths in the near infrared range or from about 780 nm to about 1000 nm. While it is possible to use light outside of this range, studies have shown that light in this wavelength range is preferred for muscle therapy because shorter wavelengths do not penetrate as far into the tissue and longer wavelengths are not as effective at stimulating muscle mitochondria.

[0033] In one aspect of the light therapy system 100, the light emitters 165 are sized and shaped to penetrate into the fat layer 186 when the cuff 110 is pressurized so that the light emitters can be in proximity to the underlying muscle 187. The light emitters 165 have a light emitting surface that is in contact with the skin 185 either directly or through the cover layer 195. In one aspect, the light emitting surface is at least about 1 mm, or at least about 2 mm, or at least about 3 mm, or at least about 5 mm, or at least about 10 mm in height above (i.e., the light emitting surface is distal from) the support structure or inner surface of the cuff 110. Spacers 190 can be provided as needed or the light emitters 165 can be designed to have the desired height. In one aspect, light emitters of different heights can be provided to accommodate different fat layer thicknesses of users.

[0034] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Aspects of the light emitting member 155 are shown that are designed to provide light emitters 165 in an array 200. The array 200 can include a plurality of light emitters 165 arranged in any suitable pattern. An array of light emitters refers to a group of multiple light emitters 165 that can be powered by the light emitter controller at the same or similar intensity and duration. The array 200 can be on one printed circuit board or can be on multiple printed circuit boards and a single printed circuit board can contain one or more arrays 200. For example, Figure 2A The array 200 is a multi-dimensional array 205 and Figure 2BThe array 200 is a one-dimensional array 210 or a strip of light emitters 165 positioned generally on a straight line. The light emission system 150 can include one or more such arrays 200. For example, in one arrangement, the array 200 can encompass all or nearly all of the interior of the cuff 110. In another arrangement, one or more arrays 200 can be positioned within the cuff 110 such that they each apply light to a specific relevant area or muscle on the body part within the cuff 110. For example, in one particular arrangement, one or more light emitters 165 in an array 200 can be attached to the cuff 110 in independently controlled groups corresponding to target leg muscle groups, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and / or gastrocnemius. Alternatively or additionally, other muscle groups or other tissue can be targeted. In one arrangement, the one or more arrays 200 are separately integrated circuits mounted to a flexible printed circuit board that can be attached to the cuff 110. In one arrangement, the one or more arrays 200 are connected in series to a main two connector power wire that is connected to the light emission controller 175.

[0035] The light emission controller 175 controls the operation of the one or more light emitters in the array 200 in a predetermined manner. The light emission controller 175 provides power to the one or more light emitters 165 such that light of a predetermined intensity and / or duration can be applied to the body part proximate or in contact with the light emitters. The power and / or duration can be applied to a single light emitter 165 or to multiple light emitters 165. When the light emission controller 175 is to provide power to multiple light emitters 165, the power can be supplied to the multiple light emitters 165 independently or in one or more arrays 200, where each array 200 includes a group of light emitters 165 that will be collectively provided power in groups at the same or similar intensity and for the same or similar duration. The intensity and / or duration of the application of light for each light emitter 165 and / or for each array 200 can be input into the controller by a user via a user interface in communication with the controller. Alternatively, the intensity and / or duration can be automated. For example, in one arrangement, the light emission controller can be in communication with the pressure controller 125 or other monitor and can adjust the application of light in response to the pressurization of the cuff 110. For example, by applying light to the body part only when the cuff 110 is pressurized, the application of light can be more efficient because it is during this pressurized state that light is more aptly transmitted to the muscle 187. Alternatively, light can be maintained even when the cuff 110 is in an unpressurized state. Also alternatively or additionally, the intensity and / or duration can be adjusted in response to other signals or states as discussed below.

[0036] In one aspect, the intensity and / or duration of the light applied by the light emitter 165 and / or one or more of the arrayed light emitters 165 can be selected or adjusted based on factors associated with the body part to be treated. For example, one factor that can be used to adjust the intensity and / or duration of the light application is the thickness of the fat layer 186 of the body part. Because scattering of light is especially prevalent in fatty tissue, the thicker the fat layer 186, the more scattering of light, and the greater the intensity and / or longer the duration of the light application required to achieve the desired dosage of light application. Thus, in one aspect, the thickness of the fat layer 186 of the body part can be measured, such as by calipers or by an electronic monitor, and the intensity and / or duration of the light application can be set depending on the measurement. The operator of the light treatment system 100 can input the desired intensity and / or duration into the light emission controller 175, for example, after consulting a chart, table, or the like having empirical data regarding the fat layer status, or the light emission controller can be preprogrammed with the empirical data, such that the operator can input the measurement information and the light emission controller 175 can automatically adjust the intensity and / or duration of the light application. Alternatively, when an electronic monitor is used, a signal related to the fat level status can be provided to the light emission controller 175, and adjustments can be made in response to the signal. Another factor that can be used to adjust the intensity and / or duration of the light application is the skin color. The skin color can affect the transmissivity of the light application. Thus, in one aspect of the application, the skin color can be assessed or monitored, and the light intensity and / or duration can be adjusted according to the skin color in a manner similar to that described above in connection with the fat status. In yet another aspect, both the fat layer thickness and the skin color can be used to adjust the intensity and / or duration of the light intensity.

[0037] In one aspect, the light treatment system 100 can also include a light sensing system 300, such as shown in Figure 3A and Figure 3B In aspects of the Figure 3A and Figure 3B light sensing system includes a photometer 305, such as a reflectometer. The photometer 305 consists of a photodetector 310 and a plurality of photometer light emitters 315, such as infrared light emitting diodes. The photodetector 310 and the photometer light emitters 315 are affixed to a substrate 320. The photometer 305 includes a photodetector 310 and a pattern of photometer light emitters 315 spaced apart from the photodetector 310 by logarithmic distances. For example, the photometer light emitters 315 can be infrared light emitting diodes placed at distances of 3 mm, 6 mm, 12 mm, 24 mm, and / or 48 mm from the photodetector 310. The photodetector 310 can include a filter on the sensor to detect only light within a narrow wavelength around the peak emission wavelength of the infrared light emitting diodes 315. In aspects of theFigure 3A and Figure 3B In the scheme shown as shown, five photometric light emitters 315 and photodetectors 310 are mounted on a rigid substrate 320 so that their relative spacing is maintained when the cuff 110 is inflated, as shown. The photometric light emitter power lines and sensor lines can be bundled together, so the photometer 305 is in communication with the light emission controller 175. The light emission controller 175 can control the emission of light from the photometric light emitters 315 and can receive output signals from the photodetectors 310. The light emission controller 175 can then process the data to determine the quality of light transmission into the leg 115 or other body part. An optional pressure sensor 330 can also be provided as discussed below.

[0038] In use of the photometer 305 in Figure 3A and Figure 3B Infrared photons from the photometric light emitters 315 are applied to the skin 185 during use of the photometer 305 in Skin absorption (cm -1 ) = f (photodetector voltage from first light emitter) Light that penetrates the skin layer is scattered in all directions by the fat layer 186. Some of this light exits the body back through the skin 185 and can be detected by the photodetector 310. Light that passes through the fat layer 186 is absorbed by the muscle 187 where it can provide the desired therapeutic effect. Above a thick fat layer, the amount of light re-emitted at the skin 185 will be higher than above a thin fat layer 186 where light can travel less impeded to the muscle tissue 187. Each photometric light emitter is turned on and off in sequence, so the output voltage from the photodetector 310 at different times corresponds to the diffuse reflectance at discrete distances on the skin surface. The thickness of the fat layer 186 is inferred from multiple measurements of the photometric light emitters 315 at different distances from the photodetector 310. The fat layer 186 thickness can be calculated from the following empirical relationship: Fat thickness (mm) = g (photodetector voltage from all light emitters) InFigure 3C Another implementation of the photometer 305 of the optical sensing system 300 of the light therapy system 100 is shown in FIG. 3B. Figure 3C The photometer 305 of FIG. 3B includes a circular geometry 335 of photometric light emitters 315 with the photodetector 310 in the middle of the circular pattern surrounded by a string of one or more photometric light emitters 315. Between the string and the photodetector 310, each string corresponds to a unique distance, and each string can be independently controlled by the light emission controller 175. The current through each string of photometric light emitters 315 is modulated to provide a substantially uniform response at the photodetector 310 for typical skin color and fat thickness. The photodetector voltage response can be near the middle of the range of the analog-to-digital converter to accurately measure diffuse reflectance with 10+ bit resolution.

[0039] In one implementation, the optical sensing system 300 can be used independently of light application. For example, the optical sensing system 300 can be used to measure a body part, such as fat layer thickness and / or optical transmissivity, prior to installing the cuff 110 on the body part. The measurements can be delivered to the controller 175, input into the controller 175, and used to set the light emission controller 175, as discussed above.

[0040] In one implementation, the optical sensing system 300 can be integrated into the cuff 110 by being positioned within the cuff 110 and can be directly connected to the light emission controller 175. In this implementation, the photometer 305 can be used to measure a body part prior to application of light to the body part, so the intensity and / or duration of the application can be adjusted. Additionally or alternatively, the photometer 305 can be used during application of light. In one particular implementation, the photometer 305 can be used to monitor the transmissivity of the light during application, and this measurement can be interpreted by the light emission controller 175 so that the intensity and / or duration of the light application can be automatically adjusted. One or more photometers 305 can be positioned within the cuff 110 near the location of one or more of the light emitters 165 of the array 200 so that the intensity and / or duration of the light application for each array 200 can be individually adjusted in response to measurements from the photometer associated with the area where the array 200 is located. The adjustment of the intensity and / or duration can be made by an operator receiving a signal indicative of the measurement, or can be automatically made by the light emission controller 175 in response to the signal from the photometer 305. In one implementation, the adjustment is made in real time by the light emission controller 175. For example, in one implementation, the photometer 305 can be positioned or mounted near the center of each of the one or more light emitters 165 of the array 200.

[0041] In one implementation, the photometer 305 can be used to measure the transmissivity of the light through the body part. In one implementation, the photometer 305 can be used to measure the transmissivity of the light through the body part during application of the light. In one implementation, the photometer 305 can be used to measure the transmissivity of the light through the body part during application of the light and to adjust the intensity and / or duration of the light application in response to the measurement. Figure 4In one arrangement such as that shown in FIG. 1, the light therapy system 100 can include a pressure cuff system 105 operating as an intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) device 400. Intermittent pneumatic compression devices are used medically to help prevent clots in the deep veins of the legs or other extremities. The intermittent pneumatic compression device 400 applies pneumatic pressure intermittently to the legs or other extremities or body parts. After the pressure is released, blood flows back through the veins, helping to prevent blood clots. Intermittent pneumatic compression devices can also or alternatively be used by athletes to improve circulation and promote muscle recovery after exercise and / or for automated massage therapy.

[0042] In Figure 4 In one arrangement such as that shown in FIG. 1, the light therapy system 100 can include a pressure cuff system 105 operating as an intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) device 400. Intermittent pneumatic compression devices are used medically to help prevent clots in the deep veins of the legs or other extremities. The intermittent pneumatic compression device 400 applies pneumatic pressure intermittently to the legs or other extremities or body parts. After the pressure is released, blood flows back through the veins, helping to prevent blood clots. Intermittent pneumatic compression devices can also or alternatively be used by athletes to improve circulation and promote muscle recovery after exercise and / or for automated massage therapy.

[0043] In Figure 4 In one arrangement such as that shown in FIG. 1, the light therapy system 100 can include a pressure cuff system 105 operating as an intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) device 400. Intermittent pneumatic compression devices are used medically to help prevent clots in the deep veins of the legs or other extremities. The intermittent pneumatic compression device 400 applies pneumatic pressure intermittently to the legs or other extremities or body parts. After the pressure is released, blood flows back through the veins, helping to prevent blood clots. Intermittent pneumatic compression devices can also or alternatively be used by athletes to improve circulation and promote muscle recovery after exercise and / or for automated massage therapy.

[0044] The cuff 110 of the light therapy system 100 can optionally include a side opening 425. The side opening 425 can be selectively openable to expose the interior of the cuff 110 and facilitate attachment of the cuff 110 to a leg or other extremity or other body part. A closure 430, such as a zipper, can be provided to close the opening 425 when the cuff 110 is secured around a body part.

[0045] Figure 5 A particular cuff 110 and light emission system 150 are shown. Figure 5 The light emission system 150 includes a plurality of striped light emitters 165, such as striped light emitting diodes. In this arrangement, each stripe can operate as an array 200 of light emitters 165 or as a one-dimensional array 210 of light emitters 165. Alternatively, multiple stripes can be grouped together to form a larger array 200 or multi-dimensional array. Alternatively, the entire population of stripes can collectively form a single array 200. Each one-dimensional array 210 can contain 2 to 100 light emitters 165. In one arrangement, there can be 2 stripes to about 50 stripes, or about 10 stripes to about 40 stripes, or about 20 stripes to about 30 stripes, or about 26 stripes. The total number of light emitters 165 can vary from 2 to about 20,000, or from about 50 to about 10,000, or about 1000 to about 5000, and in one particular arrangement there are about 4800 light emitters. A photometer 305 can optionally be mounted near the center of an array 200 of independently controllable light emitters 165. The total number of photometers 305 can vary from 0 to 20, or from about 1 to about 5, and in one particular arrangement there are four photometers 305, one each on the right and left sides of the calf and the right and left sides of the quadriceps muscle.

[0046] Figure 6An exploded view of a version of the pressure cuff system 105 of the light therapy system 100 is shown, with the cuff open and laid flat. The pressure cuff system 105 includes a cuff 110 that serves as an outer layer 600. The middle layer 605 includes one or more light emitting members 155 and support structures 160 and a light sensing system 300. Optionally, the middle layer 605 can also include a reflective liner 610, such as a white liner. The reflective liner 610 can be attached to the cuff 110 and can be cut to the same size and shape as the cuff 110 or can be a different size and shape. The attachment of the reflective liner 610 to the cuff 110 can be in the form of a zipper, hook and loop fasteners, or a band around the edges of the cuff 110 and / or each cuff chamber 405 or each cuff chamber that allows for easy removal and servicing. The middle layer 605 can use a zipper or other fastener that matches the commercially available cuff. Each side of the middle layer 605 can have two fasteners, one to attach to the cuff 110 and the other to close the cuff 110 and middle layer 605 around the body part. The reflective or white liner 610 can improve the uniformity of the amount of light reaching the muscle. Light that scatters back through the skin can be reflected back into the body by the reflective liner 610 to more efficiently increase the chance of a photon reaching the muscle tissue. An inner layer 615 can also be provided. The inner layer 615 can be made of a material that is optically transparent to infrared light, such as polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, epoxy, acrylic, silicone, etc., and attached to the middle layer 605 as a sheet using fastener material or can be permanently attached to the middle layer 605. The purpose of the optically transparent inner layer 615 is to insulate the user from the electrical components and to provide a cleanable surface that can be sanitized and wiped between uses. The permanently attached version of the inner layer 615 can be adhered to the middle layer 605 to create a durable product that provides protection for the light emitters 165 and the light meter 305 from wear and tear, etc. In this version, the inner layer 615 constitutes the optional cover layer 195 discussed above. The light emitting members 155 can be arranged in electrically series groups so that the sum of the forward voltages of the light emitters of the group matches the light emitter power supply voltage. One or more series groups are connected to a main dual connector power line that is ultimately connected to a light emission controller 175 that can be separate from the middle layer 605. In one version, the light emitter members 155 can contain infrared light emitting diodes mounted to a heat sink aluminum printed circuit board that is attached to the white liner 610 using removable fasteners or permanent attachment.

[0047] In one version, the middle layer 605 and optionally the inner layer 610 can be provided as an upgrade kit for existing intermittent pneumatic compression device cuff assemblies. Alternatively, the pressure cuff system 105 can include the cuff 110 and the additional layers configured together as a single unit.

[0048] In one implementation of the light therapy system 100, a photometer 305 can be mounted near the middle of each muscle group array 200, so that the dose delivered by the light emitters 165 on the array 200 can be controlled and / or customized according to signals received from the photometer 305, as shown in Figure 6 Alternatively, multiple photometers 305 can be associated with each array 200, such as by being distributed at the periphery or respective ends of the array 200. Alternatively, a single photometer 305 can be provided at a desired location.

[0049] Figure 7 An example of a user interface 700, such as a touchscreen 705, is shown, which can be used to allow a user to interact with the control system 120 and in particular with the light emission controller 175. The user interface 700 shows parameters and status for the infrared dosing application of the light therapy system 100 applied to the leg 115. For example, the user can utilize the user interface 700 to specify the desired muscle IR dose (in Joules per centimeter 2 ) for each muscle group by using the "change" tab or button. In real time, the display of the user interface 700 of the touchscreen 705 can indicate one or more parameter values corresponding to the fat thickness, skin light absorption, target muscle dose, progress toward the delivered muscle dose for each muscle group, and the remaining time to complete the dose. The touchscreen 705 can further facilitate or allow or include a mechanism that will allow the user to reset the delivered dose counter and start and pause the ongoing dosing application by way of other tabs or buttons 715.

[0050] Figure 8A and Figure 8B Different implementations of the compression cuff system 105 of the light therapy system 100 are shown. Figure 8A A compression cuff system 105 in the form of intermittent inflation pressurized pants 800 is shown, which covers the large muscle groups of the thighs and hips. In this implementation, the muscle group arrays 200 are applied in the pressurized pants 800 that cover the middle of the body. When the middle seam 805 of the pants 800 is opened and laid flat, the muscle group arrays 200 are applied in the areas corresponding to the gluteus maximus, the hamstrings, and the quadriceps. Figure 8BA scheme for a pressure cuff system 105 integrated into a massage chair 810 or capable of being positioned on a massage chair 810 is shown, where the muscle array 200 and the optical sensing system 300 are integrated into the chair 810, mounted on the chair 810 to treat the muscle groups of the arms, legs, neck, and / or back of the human body. In one scheme, the muscle array 200 can be installed in a massage chair such that the user receives a therapeutic light dose when the massage elements are producing maximum pressure on the target muscle groups. Commercially available massage chairs treat the neck, shoulder, back, hip, arm, thigh, and calf muscles. The muscle array 200 and the optical sensing system 300 can be installed as a kit in multiple of these locations, where the array and sensors interface with the massage chair controller. Alternatively, the light therapy system 100 can be directly incorporated into the design of the massage chair. Alternatively, the light therapy system 100 can be an integral part of other structures such as a massage table, etc.

[0051] In operation, in one approach, the light therapy system 100 can employ a number of programs that inflate the pressure cuff system 105 in a desired manner. The target cuff pressure is achieved by inflating the cuff 110 and / or compartments 405 in the cuff 110 for a specific period of time or by monitoring the line pressure connected to the cuff 110. When the maximum cuff pressure is reached, a first solenoid valve or the like, such as from a solenoid in one of the pressure taps 145 connecting a pump, such as the electric air pump 130, to the cuff 110, can be closed, or the pump can be stopped. A second solenoid valve or the like, such as from another solenoid from the pressure tap 130, can deflate the cuff 110 or compartments 405 to release the pressure according to the program schedule. The light emission controller 175 of the photometer 305 can be connected to the pressure controller 125 to monitor and control the voltage corresponding to the state of the solenoid valves, pressure sensor 140, and pump motor. Based on these control signals, the processor within the light emission controller 175 determines when the cuff 110 or each compartment 405 is in a state of maximum pressure. The photometer 305 and light emitters 165 of the array 200 can be operated when they are positioned under the cuff 110 in a desired and / or predetermined pressure state. Both the photometer 305 and array 200 can be deactivated when the solenoids deflate the air in the cuff 110 or compartments 405. A typical work time using an intermittent inflation pressurization system can last approximately 15 minutes. The pump can go through a number of cycles, each of which can last a few minutes, where the cuff 110 or compartments 405 are inflated to a certain pressure and held for 5 to 30 seconds before the cuff 110 or compartments 405 are deflated. In one approach, the light emission controller 175 can wait until a first predetermined pressure event occurs and obtain a reading from the photometer 305 to characterize the light absorption and scattering of the skin and fat layers. These measurements can be used to calculate a dose of IR light on the surface of the skin that will provide a uniform dose of IR light to the muscle layer that will be absorbed in the muscle layer. The skin dose (DS) can have a form as shown below: DS = DT * h (skin absorption, fat thickness) where the dose time DT is the cumulative period of time the light emitters are activated.

[0052] When the cuff 110 or compartments 405 are still in a pressurized state, the light emitters 165 of the array 200 can be activated to begin the infrared light dosing administration. The processor of the light emission controller 175 can record the number of seconds the light emitters of the array 200 are on. Then, the light emitters 165 can be turned off when the corresponding cuff solenoid is deflated, and the light emitters 165 can be turned back on when the cycle reaches a predetermined pressure and / or duration. When the timer reaches the calculated exposure time for the target dose of the array 200, the lights can be turned off for the remainder of the program schedule.

[0053] In operation, each array 200 of light emitters 165 includes a plurality of light emitters 165 that emit light across a range of wavelengths centered around a wavelength. The radiant flux (mW) of each light emitter is a measure of the amount of light emitted in the range of wavelengths across the active area on the chip. The radiant power density of a light emitter is the radiant flux divided by the active area (mW / cm 2 ). The radiant power density of a light emitter is only applicable at the point where the active area of the light emitter is in contact with the skin. The surface radiant power density is calculated for each array 200 and for each associated muscle group. The surface radiant power density can be calculated as the number of light emitters 165 in a group times the radiant flux of an individual light emitter divided by the area treated by the group or array 200. Under the skin and fat layer, the muscle radiant power density is a measure of how much light reaches the underlying muscle. The spacing of the light emitters on the muscle group light assembly of the array 200 can be important for proper therapeutic light dosing administration, as too few lamps can create dark areas between the lamps where light does not propagate through to the muscle layer. Each array 200 has light emitters spaced apart to deliver nearly uniform power density to the target muscle. The overall light emitters can have sufficient radiant power to deliver the dose in the allotted time, with the intermittent pneumatic pressurization program bringing the underlying cuff to a predetermined pressure state.

[0054] For body areas with thicker fat layers, less radiant power reaches the muscle group. The light that reaches the muscle is also diffused more. More powerful light emitters 165 can be spaced farther apart while still achieving the desired uniformity and density of light at the muscle layer. For example, the typical thickness of fat over the male calf (gastrocnemius muscle) is 4 mm + / - 2 mm, while the fat thickness over the medial thigh (adductor muscle) is 10 mm + / - 4 mm. To deliver a uniform 3 J / cm 2 dose of infrared radiation to both muscle groups, the internal light emitter spacing over the calf muscle group assembly can need to be 2 cm and use a 200 mW radiant power light emitter, and the light emitter spacing over the adductor muscle can be 5 cm and use a 1000 mW light emitter.

[0055] In another aspect, a specific focusing and / or diffusing lens can be placed over the light emitters 165 to help ensure uniform light density on the surface of the muscle. In the case of this aspect, the muscle group light emitters of the array 200 can be customized for different fat layer thicknesses without changing the light emitter spacing. The muscle group light emitter assembly of the array 200 can then be moved to target different muscle groups for a variety of intermittent pneumatic compression cuff assemblies, such as a hand, foot, arm, leg, hip, thigh, and / or waist. In another aspect, a pressure sensor 330 is installed on each light meter 305. The array 200 can be turned on when a pressure above a threshold is sensed over the associated muscle group. Dosing can continue when the pressure is above the threshold and the total exposure time is less than the time required to achieve the desired muscle dose. In another aspect, the light emission controller 175 uses pulse width modulation (PWM) to control the amount of light. The light emission controller 175 can determine the duty cycle of the light emitters 165 associated with each muscle group so that the amount is completed for all muscle groups at the same time.

[0056] Modeling light transport through multiple tissue layers is a complex problem that can be solved using statistical simulation that models the transport and outcome of a large number of photons that enter the body normal to the skin surface and interact with multiple tissue layers. The inputs to the Monte Carlo simulation include the optical properties of each tissue layer and their corresponding thicknesses. The output is a map of where the photons are absorbed in the tissue or re-emitted off the skin. In Figure 9A a summary of the modeling results for a number of simulations is shown in FIG. 1 1 (both melanin content varied over a range of skin colors from fair to dark and fat thickness varied over a range from 3 mm to 10 mm). In this simulation, the amount of light absorbed in the muscle layer varied from 17% for fair skin and a 3 mm fat layer to 3.2% for dark skin and a 10 mm fat layer. To achieve the same dose of IR light to the underlying muscle, the latter subject would need to expose themselves to more than 5 times the amount of light than the former. It is inferred that the more light that reaches the muscle helps deliver a consistent dose.

[0057] The model also generates a distribution that embodies how the light is re-emitted from the skin surface as a function of distance from the light emitter light source, Figure 9B For points very close to the light emission source (x < 4 mm, point A in Figure 9B , the diffuse reflectance (R d (A) = detector signal / distance 2 ) is closely related to how much light is not absorbed by melanin in the epidermis layer. At source-detector distances of about the thickness of the dermis, the fat and muscle layers below the dermis dominate R d(A) the effect of the signal is negligible. Skin factor F skin may be defined as R d (4 mm), and represents the characteristic of the diffuse reflectance curve.

[0058] Light that penetrates the skin layer is scattered in all directions by the fat layer. Some of this light is returned through the skin and can be detected by the photodetector 310. Light that passes directly through the fat layer is absorbed by the muscle where it can provide the desired light therapy effect. Above a thick fat layer, the amount of light re-emitted at the skin will be greater than above a thin fat layer, where the light is able to travel from the photometer light emitter 315 to the light-absorbing muscle tissue with less obstruction. The output voltage from the photodetector 310 at different times corresponds to the diffuse reflectance over a range of distances on the skin surface. The fat layer thickness is inferred from the multiple measurements of light emitted from the skin 185 and the varying distances from the source. Experiments have shown that, at distances further from the light emitter 315 source (>5 mm), R d (x) decays exponentially, where the decay rate is related to the thickness of the fat layer. The fat factor can be simply defined as the ratio R d (10 mm) / R d (20 mm), which cancels out the signal component related to skin absorption.

[0059] For each model simulation, the skin factor and fat factor are tabulated, and the collection of models is run with a range of different skin colors and fat thickness layers, creating a database for inferring the fraction of light absorbed by the muscle tissue, as shown by the following sample database table, to infer the infrared treatment time to deliver a constant dose of infrared light to the muscle tissue based on variations in skin color and fat layer thickness.

[0060] Direct measurements of the reflectometer at distances of 4 mm, 10 mm, and 20 mm enable the calculation of both the skin factor and the fat factor. In turn, the measured factors can be matched and interpolated using the data in the above table to determine the appropriate treatment time that will deliver a constant dose of infrared light to the muscle tissue of most users.

[0061] In other approaches, the light therapy system 100 can use other parameters derived from the diffuse reflectance profile of the skin reflectometer to infer adjustments to the dosed administration of treatment time. In addition, other data such as the photometer sensor pressure 330 can be added to the database to improve the accuracy of the infrared light dosed administration.

[0062] The power supply for the components and controller can be integrated into a single enclosure, and the light source is activated when the IPC pump has reached a predetermined pressure in the cuff 110. In this way, light is only emitted when the optical path from the light source module to the muscle is the shortest. The controller can set a prescribed total infrared or other radiation dose (J or J / cm 2 ) for each muscle group, such that the muscle group light source is turned off when the desired dose has been achieved.

[0063] In one aspect of the application, the light sensing system 300 can be used with light therapy systems other than those using a pressure cuff system. All types of light therapy can benefit from the measurement of fat layer thickness and adjustment of light dose relative to that measurement. For example, the light sensing system 300 can be used to determine the optimal light dose on the skin to deliver the desired light dose to the muscle tissue in any other modality of infrared light therapy. Other light therapy systems include bulb (Wolezek) and LED panel (i.e. Joovv, Platinum LED therapy lamp) where the subject stands in front of the lamp for a predetermined period of time. Other methods can also include a sunbed style system (NovoThor). In addition, handheld LED and laser IR emitters (Infarex, TOPlight) can be held on the skin surface to achieve a therapeutic effect. The optical properties from the skin color and fat thickness of the clinical test subjects can be approximated and used as inputs to a multi-layer Monte Carlo model. This model will determine how large a fraction of the IR photons incident on the subject's skin are absorbed in the muscle tissue. Using the relationship between the diffuse reflectance distribution of the output from the IR photometer and the fraction of light absorbed in the muscle layer (muscle absorption) from Table 1, the adjustment to the treatment time or light intensity to deliver a dose of IR light to the muscle tissue can be calculated.

[0064] The control system 120, including the pressure controller 125 and / or the light emission controller 175, can be any device capable of receiving input, performing calculations, performing calculations based on input, generating output signals, and / or generating output signals as a result of calculations. The controllers 125, 175 can be part of the same controller or can be separate controllers capable of communicating with each other. The controllers 125, 175 can be in the form of a central processing unit capable of interacting with a user via a keyboard, a graphical user interface, wireless communication, voice commands, or any other means. For example, the controllers 125, 175 can be a personal computer, a laptop, a handheld device, a server, a network of servers, a cloud network, etc. An operator can interact with the controller 125 and / or the controller 175 before, during, or after a light treatment procedure. The controllers 125, 175 can include a variety of modules that allow it to perform calculations, algorithms, routines, and / or subroutines to process information and / or make decisions. The controllers 125, 175 can also include other optional modules, such as artificial intelligence and / or machine learning modules that use algorithms to parse data, learn from the data, and then make decisions and / or predictions based on what was learned.

[0065] While the application has been described in some detail with respect to certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments can exist and are apparent to those skilled in the art from the description and the accompanying drawings. For example, the components of the cooperation can be reversed or provided in additional or fewer numbers. In addition, various features of the described schemes can be combined in various ways to provide additional schemes of the application. Furthermore, certain terminology has been used for the purpose of descriptive clarity, and not to limit the application. Throughout the specification and any claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise," and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising," will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, limitation, or step, but not the exclusion of any other element, limitation, or step. Thus, any appended claims should not be limited to the description of preferred schemes contained in this document, but should include all such modifications, permutations, and equivalents that fall within the true spirit and scope of the application.

Claims

1. A light therapy system, comprising. a pressurizable cuff positionable on or near a body part of a user; a support structure coupled to a surface of the pressurizable cuff; a light emitter including (i) a bottom surface facing the support structure and (ii) a light emission surface spaced apart from the support structure, the light emission surface configured to emit light toward the body part of the user and to press against the skin of the body part of the user when the cuff is pressurized; and a plastic non-adhesive cover layer disposed over the light emitter, the cover layer configured to help prevent direct contact of the light emitter with the skin of the body part of the user and including (i) an outer surface at least partially configured to face the skin of the body part of the user and (ii) an opposite inner surface, wherein at least a portion of a surface of the light emitter other than the bottom surface is not in direct contact with the inner surface of the cover layer.

2. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The pressurizable cuff is positionable on a leg of the user.

3. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The pressurizable cuff includes a flexible material.

4. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The pressurizable cuff includes a side opening.

5. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The pressurizable cuff includes a zipper.

6. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The support structure includes a circuit board.

7. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The light emitter is a light emitting diode.

8. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The light emission surface is configured to emit infrared light toward the body part of the user.

9. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The cover layer further includes a light transmissive material.

10. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The light therapy system further includes a controller for controlling pressurization of the pressurizable cuff.

11. The light therapy system of claim 10, wherein, The controller is configured to selectively pressurize and depressurize the pressurizable cuff.

12. The light therapy system of claim 10, wherein, The pressurizable cuff includes a plurality of chambers.

13. The light therapy system of claim 12, wherein, The controller is configured to pressurize and depressurize each chamber of the pressurizable cuff separately.

14. The light therapy system of claim 12, wherein, The controller is configured to pressurize each chamber of the pressurizable cuff sequentially.

15. The light therapy system of claim 12, wherein, The controller is configured to pressurize each chamber of the pressurizable cuff simultaneously.

16. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The light therapy system further includes a controller for controlling emission of light from the light emitter.

17. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The light therapy system further includes at least one array of light emitters, each array including a plurality of light emitters positioned along a line.

18. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The light therapy system further includes an input device for receiving input from the user.

19. The light therapy system of claim 18, wherein, The input device includes a screen.

20. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein, The light therapy system further includes a rechargeable battery.

21. A light therapy system, comprising. a pressurizable cuff positionable on or near a body part of a user; a circuit board coupled to a surface of the pressurizable cuff; a light emitter including a light emission surface configured to emit light toward the body part of the user and to press against the skin of the body part of the user when the cuff is pressurized; a spacer disposed between the circuit board and the light emitter such that (i) at least a first portion of the spacer is directly attached to at least a portion of a top surface of the circuit board and (ii) at least a second portion of the spacer is directly attached to the light emitter; and a cover layer directly contacting a light emitting surface of the light emitter and extending over a section of the top surface of the circuit board, wherein at least a portion of the section of the top surface of the circuit board over which the cover layer extends is not in direct contact with the cover layer and is not in direct contact with the spacer, and wherein the cover layer is configured to prevent the light emitter from being in direct contact with skin of a body part of a user.

22. The light therapy system of claim 21, wherein, The pressurizable sleeve is positionable on a leg of a user.

23. The light therapy system of claim 21, wherein, The pressurizable sleeve comprises a flexible material.

24. The light therapy system of claim 21, wherein, The pressurizable sleeve comprises a side opening.

25. The light therapy system of claim 21, wherein, The pressurizable sleeve comprises a zipper.

26. The light therapy system of claim 21, wherein, The light emitter is a light emitting diode.

27. The light therapy system of claim 21, wherein, The light emitting surface is configured to emit infrared light toward a body part of a user.

28. The light therapy system of claim 21, wherein, The cover layer comprises a light transmissive material.

29. The light therapy system of claim 21, wherein, The light therapy system further comprises a controller for controlling pressurization of the pressurizable sleeve.

30. The light therapy system of claim 29, wherein, The controller is configured to selectively pressurize and depressurize the pressurizable sleeve.

31. The light therapy system of claim 29, wherein, The pressurizable sleeve comprises a plurality of chambers.

32. The light therapy system of claim 31, wherein, The controller is configured to pressurize and depressurize each chamber of the pressurizable sleeve separately.

33. The light therapy system of claim 31, wherein, The controller is configured to pressurize each chamber of the pressurizable sleeve sequentially.

34. The light therapy system of claim 31, wherein, The controller is configured to pressurize each chamber of the pressurizable sleeve simultaneously.

35. The light therapy system of claim 21, wherein, The light therapy system further comprises a controller for controlling emission of light from the light emitter.

36. The light therapy system of claim 21, wherein, The light therapy system further comprises at least one array of light emitters, each array comprising a plurality of light emitters positioned along a line.

37. The light therapy system of claim 21, wherein, The light therapy system further comprises an input device for receiving input from a user.

38. The light therapy system of claim 37, wherein, The input device comprises a screen.

39. The light therapy system of claim 21, wherein, The light therapy system further comprises a rechargeable battery.

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