The Lightmask has been developed by British doctors striving to find an effective treatment for PMS and a relief from the symptoms of migraine. Light therapy offers a safe and effective approach in many health related problems with ever growing wealth of supporting clinical evidence. Photic stimulation with gently pulsing light shown into closed eyes has been shown to relieve symptoms of migraines, PMS and help with a variety of other disorders, such as sleeplessness (insomnia), stress, chronic pain and attention deficit disorder.
Research carried out by Dr D Anderson in the Hammersmith Hospital in London found that the use of pulsed light - Photic Stimulation - helps to re-synchronise the body's internal clock that is often disturbed during PMS and when used during migraine, it can also re-establish normal brain function and stop the pain.
In Photic Stimulation gently pulsed light is shone into the eyes for 15-30 minutes a day. Photic Stimulation device is usually similar to sunglasses or a sleep mask that covers the eye area. Miniature lamps mounted in the device shine light into the user's eyes. The brightness and flash rate of the light are preset and can also be additionally adjusted by the user to personal comfort level or to the level found to be most effective in addressing a particular condition.
In the recent trials the average symptom reduction for PMS was 76%, whilst as many as 71% of participants achieved total relief from PMS. Symptoms that were successfully treated include depression, anxiety, irritability, emotional instability, poor concentration, fatigue, bloating and breast pain.
The Rio Lightmask has 5 different pre-set programmes for the following indications:
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) - for PMS sufferers using the Lightmask on the Programme 1 for 15 minutes per day is recommended, It is best that initially, you use the Lightmask just before sleep. Once you become accustomed with the treatment, you can use the Lightmask at other more convenient to you time of the day. After a few months of use, you may find that you will need to use the Lightmask for fewer days per cycle.
Migraine - Programme 2 is set to address the Classic migraine and migraine prevention. If you are a Classic migraine sufferer, you should use the Lightmask on the Programme 2 for 15 minutes per day. Research shows that using the Lightmask for 15 minutes per day reduces the frequency of migraine attacks. You can also use the Lightmask to stop or lessen a migraine attack, when one is starting or threatening. If your migraine attacks start with typical warning signs, you immediately commence to use the Lightmask. If your migraine starts without warning signs (Common Migraine), you may wish to use Programme 3 and adjust the brightness of the lights to a dim setting to provide a more gentle treatment. In some cases of severe migraines, it can take several 15 minute sessions to terminate or lessen a migraine attack. When you first use the Lightmask, use it before bed time. As you get accustomed to the treatment, you use it at any time during the day that is more convenient or appropriate.
Relaxation and Sleep - The Lightmask can help you to go to sleep at bedtime or when you wake up in the middle of the night. The Lightmask can also help you to relax whenever you need. For the purpose of relaxation and sleep, you should endeavour to identify a light pulse frequency that is most comfortable for you. People vary and you may need to experiment. For many people, Programme 4 (Relaxation and Sleep) is most effective in attaining relaxation. You may also try Programme 5 (Advanced) that delivers a greater range of light pulse frequencies.