Yes. Research shows that infrared heat therapy is an effective treatment for fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome (FMS) characterized by widespread pain in muscles and tendon attachments that is deep, aching, and spreads to various parts of the body. Fatigue and sleep problems are a direct consequence of this. There is no curative treatment, but there are treatments that can alleviate the pain.
Infrared sauna and fibromyalgia
Infrared heat therapy is one of the tools and proves to be of great help to many with fibromyalgia. Infrared saunas relieve pain and can contribute to improved mobility, better sleep quality, and stress reduction when needed.
Studies on Infrared Sauna and Fibromyalgia
In a study conducted by researchers at Kagoshima University Hospital in Japan, muscle pain in fibromyalgia patients was reduced by up to 78%. The researchers studied the effect of infrared heat on 13 female fibromyalgia patients. Patients were placed in infrared heat cabins at 60 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes each day, 2-5 times a week. After the sauna, they were wrapped in blankets for 30 minutes to retain heat. Pain was reduced by half after just one session, and pain relief was sustained after 10 sessions. Overall, pain was reduced by 20-78%. Infrared heat therapy, using an infrared sauna, is referred to as Waon therapy in Japan. Waon, simply translated, means "calming and warm."
In another study involving 44 fibromyalgia patients, 3 months of sauna therapy (3 times a week) combined with water exercises twice a week was carried out. In this study, the patients' pain was reduced by 33-77%. Six months after the study ended, pain was still reduced by 28-68%.
How infrared sauna provides pain relief for fibromyalgia
The therapeutic effects and health benefits of infrared sauna are numerous. First and foremost, blood vessels dilate in the heat, and blood flow to tissues and capillaries increases. With increased blood supply, oxygen increases in areas of the body that, for example, have inflammation or injuries, thereby contributing to pain relief, and also accelerating the repair of tissue and collagen damage. This can be beneficial for those who suffer from generally poor blood circulation, but especially for those with various pain conditions. The deep heating of the body can also lead to improved joint mobility. Heat changes the body's perception of pain and has a similar effect to analgesics, i.e., pain-relieving medications, but in a completely natural way without the use of chemicals. Increased blood circulation also leads to faster breakdown of lactic acid, resulting in pain relief.
Infrared sauna and fibromyalgia – NFF members receive a 20% discount
The World Health Organization (WHO) categorizes fibromyalgia as a musculoskeletal and connective tissue disease. In professional circles, there is discussion about whether fibromyalgia might be a neurological or autoimmune disease, rather than a rheumatological one.
If you are a member of the Norwegian Fibromyalgia Association (NFF), you receive a 10% discount on all Radiant Health products. Contact us or the association for more information.
