Do Infrared Saunas Help Chronic Pain?

If you’re exploring natural ways to relieve chronic pain, perhaps you’d like to consider infrared sauna therapy. Infrared saunas, and sauna blankets for that matter, is gaining acclaim for its effectiveness in alleviating persistent pain.

Read along to understand how the nurturing heat therapy of infrared saunas can be woven into your existing pain management strategies, offering some gentle respite from the relentless grip of chronic pain.

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Chronic Pain

Chronic pain, an unwelcome and persistent shadow in your life, may stem from a myriad of conditions like lower back pain, neck pain, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis or fibromyalgia, and numerous other conditions and disorders. It can cast a gloom over your everyday joy and make even simple tasks daunting.

While pain management often relies heavily on medication, this approach sometimes leads to a spiral of side effects and dependency. This is where the alternative relief methods like infrared sauna therapy step in – a natural, comforting addition to traditional treatments.

Scientific Support for Infrared Sauna Therapy

In supporting this natural approach, this study [1] on the effects of repeating thermal therapy has suggested that infrared sauna therapy could be an effective method to ease chronic pain. This research observed notable improvements in participants' conditions, bolstering the potential of infrared saunas as a beneficial treatment option. For more research results, see here.

First, we’ll closely examine infrared sauna therapy to alleviate lower back pain. If you're seeking in-depth insights into the relief benefits of infrared sauna therapy for neck pain, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or fibromyalgia, we invite you to check out our dedicated articles on these specific conditions.

Infrared Sauna for Lower Back Pain and Sciatica

Many people worldwide experience chronic lower back pain. It may stem from muscle strain, spinal issues, or even poor posture, usually limits daily activities and reduces quality of life.

Sciatica, characterized by pain along the sciatic nerve in the legs, typically accompanies lower back pain. Infrared saunas have made a number of important advances as an alternative and complementary therapy for the treatment of chronic back pain in recent years. Research supports its effectiveness in managing chronic lower back pain. Here are some key insights:

Infrared therapy for chronic low back pain

This 2006 research [2] evaluated the effectiveness of infrared radiation (IR) therapy in providing pain relief to patients suffering from chronic, intractable low back pain. It involved 40 patients, all of whom had suffered from chronic low back pain for more than six years. They were randomly divided into two groups: the IR therapy or a placebo group.

The IR therapy was delivered using portable units equipped with rechargeable batteries, emitting IR energy at wavelengths between 800 nm and 1200 nm. The placebo group received identical units, but without active power connection to the IR pad. The participants attended seven weekly sessions, and their pain was measured using the numerical rating scale (NRS) in various physical states. NRS is a standard indicated by patients in which they rate their pain on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being no pain and 10 being the worst pain imaginable.

The study results showed a substantial decrease in pain in the IR therapy group. The mean NRS scores dropped from 6.9 to 3 out of 10 by the end of the study. Where in contrast, the placebo group saw a modest reduction, from 7.4 to 6 out of 10. No adverse effects were reported during the study.

Dry sauna therapy for patients with low back pain

A more recent study [3] into sauna for back pain explored the popularity of dry sauna as a non-pharmaceutical, alternative health therapy. The researchers wanted to determine if dry sauna therapy could improve the quality of life and reduce pain for individuals suffering from low back pain. 37 patients took part, all over 20 years old, who suffered from low back pain.

The therapy consisted of two sessions per day, each lasting 15 minutes, for five consecutive days, totaling 10 sessions. The sauna temperature was set to 90°C.

Notable reductions in pain and disability were observed. The NRS decreased from a median of 5 before treatment to 3 after treatment. About 70% of participants reported successful treatment outcomes.

Building on the findings of the first study, the benefits of dry sauna therapy in reducing chronic low back pain may be paralleled by infrared sauna therapy.

effect of infrared energy CHRONIC SCIATIC pain

Another study [4] focused specifically on the effects of infrared therapy for people suffering from sciatica. This study explicitly investigated the addition of monochromatic infrared energy to a physical therapy exercise program in the treatment of chronic sciatic pain. Monochromatic infrared energy, refers to light at a wavelength of 880 nm and is an infrared treatment which aligns with the therapeutic principles of an infrared sauna.

The study involved 30 subjects divided into two groups, with one receiving monochromatic infrared energy in addition to ultrasound and exercises, while the control group received only ultrasound and exercises. The group that received the infrared energy showed significant improvement in functional abilities and lumbar range of motion (ROM). ROM stands for the extent and direction in which a joint or body part can move, an indication of flexibility and mobility.

However, please note that this specific study found no significant impact on pain reduction and certain lumbar ROM aspects. These findings suggest that while infrared energy can enhance functional abilities and some aspects of lumbar ROM in sciatica patients, its effect on pain relief might be less pronounced.

Given the use of infrared energy in the study, these results can be extrapolated to suggest potential benefits of infrared sauna therapy for individuals with sciatica. Although according to this study there might not be a substantial reprieve from pain, IR sauna therapy can help improve functional skills and certain aspects of lumbar mobility, which are critical for patients with sciatica.

These studies provide encouraging insights into the use of infrared sauna therapy in the management of chronic low back pain and sciatica. While it may not directly give universal pain relief, it does offer potential by improving mobility and functionality – an invaluable asset in the pursuit of a pain-free and active life.

The Best Infrared Sauna Blanket Reviews Of 2024

Infrared SAUNA Therapy

If you’re battling lower back pain, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or fibromyalgia, sauna sessions can aid relief. This natural and non-invasive form of therapy uses the gentle force of infrared heat to penetrate deep into your tired muscles and joints, and directly target the sources of pain.

It’s a ballet of warmth and recuperation, easing muscle tension, diminishing inflammation, and fostering muscle relaxation. But infrared sauna therapy brings more than just a respite from pain; it may serve as a holistic journey towards wellbeing.

Inside the calming space of an infrared sauna, you have the opportunity to alleviate stress and gain mental clarity, thereby transforming both your physical state and mental state.

Infrared Sauna for Pain Management

Thinking of integrating infrared saunas into your lifestyle? First, consult with your healthcare professional to make sure this modality is in tune with your needs. They can help tailor the ideal frequency and duration of your sessions.

Like any other healthcare practice, its effectiveness is at its best when you do it consistently and regularly. It is therefore worth considering investing in a home sauna. The costs for a regular trip to a studio including subscription costs will quickly be recouped.

Moreover, there are also affordable infrared options, such as the sauna blanket.

Discover the Benefits of Sauna Domes

The best infrared sauna for your pain management

Well, actually all infrared types are excellent for pain relief. But for example when you have chronic lower back pain or sciatica, it is recommended that you lie down during your session to relieve pressure on your lower back. This requires a sauna cabin with sufficient space or you can opt for a sauna blanket.

The choice for an infrared sauna is therefore on the one hand about what you need to be able to apply good pain management, and on the other hand it is about lifestyle and budget choices.

We briefly discuss some options here. On our site you will find more information in our product reviews.

Cabin Saunas: Ideal when you have the space and budget for a permanent setup. Their large size not only allows for shared usage but also accommodates gentle physical exercises, promoting flexibility and easing pain. They are available for indoor and outdoor.

Sauna Tents and Domes: Ideal when you want to balance between functionality and convenience. Although not as portable as sauna blankets, these can be dismantled and stored, making them perfect for users with limited space. There are even domes which can be used as a side table (when not in use).

Sauna Blankets: Weighing around 20lbs, sauna blankets are the most portable and affordable option, making them ideal for those who travel or have very limited space. They enable consistent therapy, essential for managing pain effectively.

PEMF Mats: These therapeutic mats combine infrared heat with pulsed electromagnetic fields, providing dual therapy. Some even more: like TENS [5] - ideal for targeted immediate pain relief. The full body mats are best suited for a permanent location (40lbs), they help improve nighttime rest and overall muscle relaxation, crucial for pain management.

Best Pemf Mat Reviews 2024

Getting started

Here’s how to seamlessly blend this soothing element into your daily routine.

Then, establish a cadence that suits your personal rhythm – whether daily or weekly, let it be your individualized symphony.
Begin with a gentle, lower heat and gradually increase it as your body acclimatizes to the warmth.
Hydration is key – drink plenty of water before, during, and after your sessions to stay hydrated and aid in the healing process.
Pay attention to your body’s cues – if you experience discomfort or dizziness, take a break and allow yourself to rest. Let your body be the guide in this dance.

In this pursuit, infrared saunas are more than just a method for pain alleviation; they represent a sanctuary for your spirit, a haven for rejuvenation and renewal.

Diane Sargent

References

1. Akinori Masuda et al., The effects of repeated thermal therapy for patients with chronic pain, PubMed, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16088266/

2. George D Gale et al., Infrared therapy for chronic low back pain: a randomized, controlled trial, PubMed, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16088266/

3. Eun-Hee Cho et al., Dry sauna therapy is beneficial for patients with low back pain, PubMed, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7713799/

4. Angham Ahmed et al., Effect of monochromatic infrared energy on chronic sciatic pain, International Journal of Therapies and Rehabilitation Research, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/319854660

5. Cleveland Clinic, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15840-transcutaneous-electrical-nerve-stimulation-tens

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