Infrared Healing

 

Saunas, blankets, massagers and more. Everywhere you look there's an advertisement or commercial touting the healing power of infrared therapy devices. I'm on board for just about anything that serves as an alternative to prescription meds, but does this type of therapy actually work? Full disclosure, I haven't yet tried any of the aforementioned products--I'm still pondering which will best suit my personal needs. Nonetheless, let's dive in. 

Infrared light therapy by definition is a non-invasive treatment that can help stimulate the immune system, while also helping to reduce inflammation and joint pain. For those living with autoimmune diseases( yours truly) these potential benefits could be life changing. Starting with the most popular product of the group, the infrared sauna seems to receive the most attention for good reason. infrared saunas work their magic by deeply penetrating muscles, tissues and joints--increasing circulation and flow of oxygen. For autoimmune patients this translates to a potential reduction  of muscle spasms and reduced soreness on nerve endings.

The combination of core heating, enhanced blood flow, and immune system stimulation could also aid in the protection of organs as any reduction of inflammation, not only eases pain but helps keep the organs better protected--a clinical finding for which Niels Finsen received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1903.

In thinking of the healing benefits of infrared sauna therapy for autoimmune diseases, there is one stark difference between a traditional sauna and the infrared sauna worth noting. A traditional sauna heats the air around you first while an infrared sauna uses radiation to heat the body directly (i.e. deeper muscle penetration). All in all there are of course benefits to whichever type of sauna, therapy blanket etc.that you feel works best for your health, however there are also precautions that should always be taken as well. 

First and foremost, consult your healthcare provider before starting any type of new therapeutic regimen. Second, avoid overexposure as it can cause burns and skin damage. Lastly, do not use infrared therapy in or near an open wound or infection. As  mentioned abve,  feel as though a single person sauna is the direction I'm leaning but whichever product I test first, I will certainly share those results in an updated post. Til next time ✨

#infrared #therapy #wellness #healing