Scientific Validation of the Benefits of Far Infrared Sauna Blankets
What is an Far Infrared Sauna Blanket?
An far infrared sauna blanket is a portable, compact blanket that offers all the benefits of a traditional sauna in a more convenient form. Made from heat-resistant materials, it emits infrared heat to induce sweating, increase body temperature, and aid in healing and repair.
Infrared Light Therapy: Systematic Review Evidence
A group of researchers conducted a systematic review to investigate whether infrared light can be a beneficial treatment for muscle and joint issues, including arthritis and chronic pain. They analyzed 233 articles and closely reviewed 13 of them. The results indicated that infrared light has the potential to reduce pain levels in patients with muscle and joint problems. Additionally, it seems to provide relief for those suffering from fibromyalgia. However, researchers noted that infrared light might not be as effective as expected for athletes recovering from injuries.
Infrared light is a type of light that can penetrate the body 3-5 millimeters (approximately 1/4 inch). Its impact on body cells can improve mitochondrial function, promote blood flow, and trigger the growth and repair of new muscles, cells, and tissues. The review suggests that infrared light can be a useful adjunct therapy for certain muscle and joint problems. More research is needed to fully understand its benefits and limitations. Although scientists are excited about the potential of infrared light, they acknowledge that further research is needed to determine the best conditions and applications for its use.
Citation: Tsakopoulos, T., Alexiou, A., Găman, M.-A., & Moysidis, D. V. (2022). Infrared Radiation in the Management of Musculoskeletal Conditions and Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review. European Journal of Investigative Health Psychology and Education, 12(3), 334-343. https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe12030024
Comparison: Infrared Light Therapy vs. Traditional Heating Pads
While heating pads/mats provide surface warmth, their impact on deep tissue healing may not be as significant as infrared therapy. Infrared light can penetrate a few millimeters below the skin surface, making it a better choice for those seeking quicker and deeper pain relief and tissue regeneration.
How to Use Infrared Light in Your Recovery Process
For acute injuries, infrared therapy can safely and immediately stimulate tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. For chronic pain, using infrared light before exercise or training can reduce pain and increase range of motion. After training, infrared therapy can provide similar benefits and help reduce post-exercise pain and muscle soreness.
Timing for Using Infrared: Timing Matters
First-time users or those with specific health concerns should gradually increase duration and power levels. The recommended infrared usage time is 15-20 minutes, with at least 6 hours between sessions. Warning: Exercise caution when engaging in strenuous activities immediately after a session until you are familiar with its effects.
Benefits of Sauna Blankets
The benefits of sauna blanket therapy include improved cardiovascular function, body detoxification, stress relief, pain reduction, and even extended health lifespan through long-term use.
The effects of a sauna blanket on the body are similar to those of a traditional sauna: sweating, increased heart rate, and body heat regulation. Therefore, using a sauna blanket can provide the same benefits as a traditional sauna. From PubMed research, we know the many benefits of sauna use, including:
- Systemic inflammation reduction
- Health-span extension
- Short-term improvement in cardiac function
- Stress reduction
- Body detoxification
- Arthritis pain management
- Chronic pain treatment
Each benefit is linked to corresponding studies on PubMed that confirm the benefits. These studies don't even mention the relaxation and pleasure we feel after using a sauna! After writing this, I feel like having a sauna session right now!