Far Infrared Saunas And Inflammation: Easing The Pain

Chronic pain, such as from arthritis, fibromyalgia, or chronic inflammation, can be more than just uncomfortable. For many, chronic pain is debilitating, keeping them from working the way they want to, the activities they like, and from enjoying their lives. It’s understandable that those with chronic pain would try any treatment option available, but with concerns over the opioid crisis growing, many are seeking a non-drug intervention. Heat therapy like far infrared saunas are non-addictive, safe, and pleasant. Wondering how a sauna session can work to ease your arthritis? Read on.

Gentle, Penetrating Heat

Many people think that a sauna treatment is that of a traditional, old-fashioned “steam” or wood-burning sauna. While using a traditional sauna can be wonderfully relaxing, it’s less effective at treating chronic pain because of the way its heat works. In a traditional sauna, radiant heat or steam is used to warm the air around the body. In contrast, a far infrared sauna uses a narrow band of visible light (the farthest part of the “infrared” portion of the spectrum) to heat the body directly, from the inside out. Because the heat penetrates deeper into the body, it can warm internal tissues more effectively than a traditional sauna. Many people with arthritis and other forms of chronic pain find this deep heat incredibly relieving.

How Does Heat Help?

Most people who use far infrared saunas to treat their pain report that they feel better after a sauna session. However, heat can have other helpful effects, such as reducing stress and muscle tension. With relaxed and warm muscles, users find they have greater range of motion than they did prior to their session. This enables them to stretch or do any physical therapy exercises more easily, which can encourage them to be done more regularly.

How To Use Your Sauna For Pain Relief

Before you begin your sauna use, first check with your doctor to make sure that there are no special instructions that you should follow when using the sauna. But even if your doctor is wary about your use of a traditional sauna, she might give you the go-ahead to use an infrared sauna, which produces the same beneficial effects at a lower, safer temperature and over a shorter period. Start by using your infrared sauna for a few minutes at time, working your way up to 10-20 minutes per session. Many people find that starting and ending their day with an infrared sauna session keeps them feeling supple and pain-free.

But ultimately you’re the expert in how your body deals with pain. While there is still no cure for arthritis, you can design your own treatment program with the help of an infrared sauna, paying careful attention to how you feel and following the safety guidelines. You’re in charge, and soon you’ll be feeling better!

Sources:

Far Infrared Saunas: Can They Help With Arthritis Pain? - www.relaxedwellbeing.com

Infrared Sauna Treatment: Are The Claims Backed Up? - www.draxe.com