What is ultraviolet blood irradiation?
Ultraviolet blood irradiation (UBI) is a treatment that subjects some of your blood to ultraviolet light. Amongst its potential benefits, UBI aims to boost your immune system and reduce inflammation.
Receiving UBI at New Pain Solutions is a straightforward process. Your provider draws around 60 ccs of your blood and passes it through a special tube, where it receives brief exposure to shortwave ultraviolet (C) light. The treated blood goes straight back into your body.
UBI is sometimes known as photoluminescence, photo-oxidation therapy, or extracorporeal photopheresis.
How does UBI work?
UBI works by causing photochemical changes to the substances in your blood. Exposure to ultraviolet light raises oxygen levels in your blood. It also heightens your blood’s ability to kill bacteria by increasing your:
- Blood pH
- Lymphocyte levels
- Hemoglobin levels
- White blood cell count
- Phagocytosis capacity
The ultraviolet light further helps to regulate your blood sugar metabolism and reduce your:
- Blood cholesterol
- Creatinine levels
- Blood lactate
- Blood viscosity
- Uric acid levels
- Fibrin levels
These effects result in improved circulation and delivery of oxygen to your tissues. Your immune system gets a significant boost, so you’re more able to fight off infection and better able to tolerate treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
What conditions can UBI treat?
UBI is a valuable treatment for numerous conditions, including:
- Infections
- Raynaud's disease
- Migraine
- Arthritis flare-ups
- Fibromyalgia
- Osteoporosis pain
- Acne
- Chronic intestinal inflammation
- Thrombophlebitis
UBI is also suitable for general detoxification of your system.
You need to undergo a series of UBI treatments at New Pain Solutions to achieve the optimal effects. Chronic conditions typically require two treatments a week for the first three weeks, followed by one weekly treatment for the next four weeks. Maintenance treatments every couple of months help prevent any relapse.
How soon will I feel the benefits of UBI?
You could feel the benefits of UBI straight away, although some people find they feel worse before starting to improve. This is usually due to your body detoxifying, which can make you feel tired and run-down, and might cause flu-like symptoms.
These effects rarely last more than one night, after which you should start to feel a significant improvement. The beneficial effects of UBI can last for six weeks or so.
To find out more about UBI and whether you’re the right candidate for this treatment, call New Pain Solutions today or book an appointment online.
