Can Infrared Sauna Relieve Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Infrared saunas may provide much-needed relief for a surprisingly large number of people affected by rheumatoid arthritis (RA). With over 1.3 million Americans [1] and about 1% of the global population grappling with this autoimmune disorder, the search for effective comfort methods is vital. RA often leads to painful and swollen joints, making daily life challenging.

In this context, the deep, penetrating heat of infrared saunas serves as a complementary approach to traditional RA treatments. Infrared saunas directly target the affected areas, and alleviate the persistent discomfort and joint stiffness associated with RA.

A quick tour of the blog post

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Treatment

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease [2]. The immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, in this case the joints. This leads to inflammation, causing joint pain, swelling, and could result in joint damage. RA symptoms typically include joint tenderness, swelling, morning stiffness, and often affect the same joints on both sides of the body.

While the exact causes of RA is not fully understood, factors like genetics, environmental triggers, and hormonal changes may play a role. It's more common in women than men and usually develops in middle age, but it can occur at any age.

Treatment

The treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is varied, involving a combination of medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery [3]. Managing stress and emotional wellness are key components of living with RA. Healthcare professionals often work closely with their patients in order to tailor their treatment to their specific needs and symptoms.

In the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, medications are utilized to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as to slow the progression of the disease and lessen its symptoms. Regular physical activity is essential too. Exercise maintains joint flexibility and strength but also bolsters muscle support.

In RA management physical therapists help in the development of personalized exercise programs, devise pain relief strategies, and might recommend the use of supportive splints or braces. Suitable exercises for RA patients often include low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, water-based exercises, gentle aerobics, and using a stationary bike.

self care

Along with medication and exercise therapy, lifestyle and home remedies are integral components of the management of rheumatoid arthritis.

Regular Exercise

Next to the guided exercise therapy, gentle exercise like walking or swimming can strengthen muscles around joints and reduce fatigue.

Heat and Cold Treatments

Using heat and cold treatments can be an effective way to manage RA symptoms. Heat, applied through warm baths, heat packs, or sauna blankets , helps to ease pain, relax muscles, and improve joint flexibility. Infrared saunas, in particular, employ deep, penetrating heat that is aimed at and relieves affected joints and muscles - a comforting experience. Cold treatments, like ice packs, are beneficial in dulling pain and reducing swelling, especially during RA flares.

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Relaxation Techniques

Stress can make RA symptoms worse [4]. Relaxation methods such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga, can assist to destress and unwind. Infrared saunas sessions are valuable additions, easily integrating with these relaxation techniques to reinforce relief. The IR sauna's warmth manages physical symptoms and amplifies the stress-reducing effects of meditation, deep breathing, and yoga, contributing to overall relaxation and wellbeing.

diet

A well-balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, fish, and healthy fats may support overall health. Such a diet also helps to reduce inflammation, a pivotal factor in RA. A diet complements the medical treatments and boosts general wellbeing. For practical ways to incorporate these beneficial foods into your routine, especially as refreshing after-sauna drinks, check out our article on refreshing sauna drinks recipes - full of tips on making your own beverages that taste great and align with the nutritional needs of those managing RA.

Scientific Insights on Infrared Saunas for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Infrared hyperthermia safe for arthritis patients, similar to healthy individuals

Research in 2009 [5] examined the short-term effects of infrared sauna treatment on 36 patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) (a type of arthritis that causes inflammation in the joints and ligaments of the spine) compared to healthy subjects (21).

Everybody was treated with whole-body hyperthermia in an IR sauna cabin at an adjusted temperature of 55°C for 30 minutes. During the treatment pain and stiffness significantly improved, with a mean improvement of 40% to 60%. Next to that every participant experienced weight loss during treatment due to sweating, with healthy subjects losing slightly more weight.

In all groups heart rate, skin, and core temperature increased considerably during treatment while blood pressure showed small but noticeable declines. All subjects reported feeling comfortable during and after treatment.

This and other studies underscore the positive effects of IR sauna treatment on pain and stiffness in RA and AS patients and highlights its safety in the short term. However, to fully understand the long-term impacts and ensure comprehensive safety, further detailed research is encouraged.

Infrared A-irradiation improves pain and mobility in arthritis and back pain.

In addition to the promising findings of the 2009 study, other research [6] has explored the benefits of Infrared (IR)-A irradiation therapy for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, degenerative osteoarthritis of the hip and knee and low back pain. IR-A is a specific range of wavelengths (700-1400 nm) within the infrared spectrum.

It is also referred to as near-infrared because it includes wavelengths that are closer to the visible light spectrum. In this research, swift pain relief was observed in those with rheumatoid arthritis, demonstrating the therapy's rapid impact. While joint mobility improvements took slightly longer, the immediate reduction in pain was remarkable.

Additionally, the study tracked changes in MDA serum levels (MDA stands for malondialdehyde, a substance in the body that can indicate oxidative stress as a potential indicator of treatment effects. Among rheumatoid arthritis patients, noteworthy shifts in MDA serum levels correlated with pain relief and improved mobility.

This suggests a link between IR-A therapy and reduced oxidative stress in rheumatoid arthritis individuals.

These findings bolster the case for IR-A irradiation therapy as a promising approach to manage rheumatoid arthritis. While more research is warranted to uncover the underlying mechanisms, these results present hope for those looking for quick pain relief and improved well-being.

The research conducted both with infrared saunas and IR-A irradiation therapy has yielded promising results for people with rheumatoid arthritis. The studies demonstrated decisive pain relief and better joint mobility, which might help further effective management of the condition.

Though more research is needed to fully understand the processes at play, these findings underscore the possible benefits of these therapies to uplift the quality of life for rheumatoid arthritis patients.

getting started

When you consider infrared sauna therapy to be a valuable addition to your rheumatoid arthritis management, here’s how you can get started:

Consult a Specialist: Before beginning any new treatment, consult with your healthcare provider to ascertain it’s suitable for your specific condition.
Try a Session: Experience the benefits firsthand. Many wellness centers and spas offer infrared sauna sessions. Book an introductory session to understand how it feels and assess its effects on your RA symptoms.
Educate Yourself Further: Knowledge is power. Inform yourself by exploring additional resources, articles, and scientific studies on infrared sauna therapy and its impact on RA.

Just like any other healthcare practice. You'll get the best results if you do it consistently and regularly. In terms of investment, it is certainly worth considering purchasing a home infrared sauna. You can cover the costs for the ride and the studio subscription in no time.

What is the best infrared sauna for rheumatoid arthritis

Selecting an appropriate infrared sauna can significantly benefit those managing rheumatoid arthritis, enhancing comfort and mobility through effective heat therapy. Our website offers comprehensive reviews on different types of infrared saunas to choose from. Here's a brief look at the different types of saunas and their benefits:

Cabin Saunas: Perfect when you have the room and budget for a more substantial setup. Cabin saunas, especially those of 3-person or more, offer a spacious environment that give room to lie down, more people, and can be used for gentle exercise routines, which are beneficial in maintaining flexibility and reducing joint stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis. They are available for indoor and outdoor.

Sauna Tents and Domes: These provide a good mix of effectiveness and convenience, ideal for users who need more flexibility. While not as easily portable as sauna blankets, tents and domes can be dismantled and stored without much hassle, accommodating those with limited space. There are even domes, which can be used as a side table (when not in use).

Sauna Blankets: The lightest and most cost-effective option, sauna blankets are particularly suited for those who frequently travel or live in small spaces. Weighing around 20lbs, they provide essential infrared therapy that is crucial for routine pain management in rheumatoid arthritis.

PEMF Mats: Offering a combination of infrared heat and pulsed electromagnetic fields, these therapeutic mats provide dual therapy. They are particularly useful for intensive treatment, suitable for placement in permanent locations such as on a bed or couch to support nighttime rest and overall muscle relaxation.

Some considerations

When choosing an infrared sauna for rheumatoid arthritis, consider the ease of use, especially in terms of setup, maintenance, and accessibility. Features such as lightweight designs, simple assembly, and easy-to-clean surfaces will enhance the overall experience.

Additionally, ensure that the type of sauna chosen fits seamlessly into your daily routine, maximizing the therapeutic benefits without adding stress or inconvenience.

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You first session

Safety is paramount when incorporating infrared saunas into your RA management plan. Here are some tips to make sure your session(s) are safe and beneficial:

Start Slow: Begin with shorter sessions and gradually increase duration as your body adapts.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after sauna sessions to replenish lost fluids through sweating.
Monitor Your Body: Pay attention to how your body responds. If you feel discomfort or notice any adverse effects, modify or stop the session, and consult your healthcare provider.
Combine with Relaxation Techniques: Enrich your experience by incorporating relaxation methods like deep breathing, yoga or meditation during your sauna sessions.

If you’ve found this information helpful, please share this article with others who might benefit. Spreading awareness and knowledge can be a powerful tool in the journey towards better managing rheumatoid arthritis.

Diane Sargent

References

1. Jennifer Freeman, RA Facts: What are the Latest Statistics on Rheumatoid Arthritis? Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Network, https://www.rheumatoidarthritis.org/ra/facts-and-statistics/

2. Arthritis Foundation, Rheumatoid Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments and More, https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/rheumatoid-arthritis

3. Tim Jewell, What Are the Benefits of an Infrared Sauna for Rheumatoid Arthritis? Healthline, https://www.healthline.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/infrared-sauna-for-rheumatoid-arthritis

4. Afton L Hassett and Daniel J Clauw, The role of stress in rheumatic diseases, PubMed, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2911881/

5. F.G.J. Oosterveld et al., No adverse physiological responses to infrared whole body hyperthermia in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis compared to healthy subjects., University Of Twente, https://research.utwente.nl/en/publications/no-adverse-physiological-responses-to-infrared-whole-body-hyperth

6. Werner Siems et al., Pain and mobility improvement and MDA plasma levels in degenerative osteoarthritis, low back pain, and rheumatoid arthritis after infrared A-irradiation, PubMed, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20827448/

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