Remember that having a minimum of 500 diodes of light is a corner stone of a quality light energy therapy system.  Research at University of Colorado School of Medicine revealed that the powerful induction of nitric oxide through red and infrared light is dose dependent.  The more diodes the better the induction effects.  Benefits of 8% increase start at 60 diodes, 120 diodes was found to increase nitric oxide locally by 26%.  500 diodes have been shown to increase nitric oxide and circulation levels by 400-3000%.   Lasers typically have only 4-36 diodes.

http://www.ehow.com/how_2048132_use-infrared-therapy-sporting-injuries.html