Key Takeaways -
- The therapeutic advantages of saunas are rapidly gaining recognition, and for a good reason. Saunas might aid in managing arthritis symptoms, among other potential health benefits.
- Studies have indicated that saunas can be a beneficial treatment for those suffering from arthritis, as they may reduce inflammation and joint pain.
- Taking advantage of regular sauna sessions supports increased joint health, sounder sleep patterns, and reduced stress levels.
Arthritis pain is a common affliction, affecting millions of people worldwide. Does this sound familiar? If so, you may experience discomfort, tightness and inflammation associated with arthritis in your joints.
While traditional treatments like medications and physical therapy offer relief to some, many are now turning to alternative therapies, such as infrared sauna therapy, for a natural pain-relief solution.
This method provides a non-invasive way of helping people reduce their symptoms naturally without suffering from harsh side effects.
This blog post will explore the potential advantages associated with incorporating infrared sauna use into your lifestyle. Keep reading and learn how this natural remedy could be beneficial in alleviating some of the uncomfortable symptoms linked to arthritis.
What Is Infrared Sauna Therapy?
Infrared sauna therapy is a type of heat therapy that uses infrared light to penetrate deep into the body's tissues. This type of heat is DIFFERENT from traditional saunas because it doesn't rely on hot air or steam to provide heat.
Instead, it uses infrared light waves that are able to penetrate deep into the body's tissues and muscles. These light waves create a gentle WARMING sensation that helps relax the muscles and reduce inflammation in the joints.
Pro Tip: When using a sauna, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration [1].
What Are The Different Types Of Arthritis
There are many different types of arthritis, each with its own symptoms and treatments. Here are a few of the most common types:
Osteoarthritis
This is the most common type of arthritis caused by wear and tear on the joints over time [2]. It typically affects older adults but can also affect younger people with joint injuries or infections.
Symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness in the affected joint. Treatment includes lifestyle changes such as exercise, weight loss, and medications to reduce inflammation and pain.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
This type is an autoimmune disorder that causes joint inflammation [3]. It usually affects multiple joints at once and can cause fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite, in addition to joint pain.
Treatment includes medications to reduce inflammation and physical therapy to maintain mobility in the affected joints.
Psoriatic Arthritis
This is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs in people with psoriasis [4]. Symptoms include swollen fingers or toes, joint pain, stiffness, fatigue, and nail changes such as pitting or discoloration.
Treatment includes medications to reduce inflammation and lifestyle changes such as exercise and stress reduction techniques.
Fibromyalgia
It is a chronic condition characterized by widespread muscle pain throughout the body along with fatigue, sleep disturbances, headaches, anxiety, depression, memory problems, digestive issues, and more [5].
Treatment includes medications to help manage symptoms and lifestyle modifications such as exercise and stress management techniques.
How Does Infrared Sauna Therapy Help With Arthritis?
Studies have shown that infrared sauna treatment can benefit people with arthritis due to its ability to reduce INFLAMMATION in the joints and muscles (to help reduce chronic pain).
The heat from a sauna helps INCREASE blood circulation throughout the body, which can help reduce pain and stiffness associated with arthritis.
Research has also shown that REGULAR use of an infrared sauna may help improve joint mobility by increasing collagen production, which helps repair cellular damage caused by arthritis.
Pro Tip: Join pain can be eased by using an infrared sauna for 20-30 minutes, 3 times a week.
Potential Benefits Of Using An Infrared Sauna For Arthritis
Using an infrared sauna for arthritis may offer several potential benefits, including:
- Reduced inflammation in the joints (including joint swelling)
- Increased blood flow throughout the body
- Improved joint mobility
- Relief from pain and stiffness associated with arthritis
- Increased collagen production, which helps repair cellular damage caused by arthritis
- Strengthens the body's immune system
Risks Of Using An Infrared Sauna For Arthritis
While infrared saunas for arthritis may provide various benefits, there are also certain risks associated with their use. Let's take a closer look at these potential hazards.
Dehydration
Make sure to stay hydrated before and after your infrared sauna sessions, as increased sweat and fluid loss can easily lead to dehydration--which could have catastrophic consequences for your health.
Severe dehydration has been known to cause detrimental effects on the body's underlying systems, so it is imperative that you always keep sipping.
Skin Irritation
Unregulated usage of an infrared sauna can cause heat rash, sunburn-like symptoms and other skin irritations. To mitigate the risk of these unpleasant conditions, it is essential to take precautionary measures when using this type of sauna for arthritis treatment.
Be mindful that lotions or any other products you apply on your skin before entering a session may increase likelihood for irritation due to their chemical content.
Extreme heat
If you wish to reap the rewards of an infrared sauna experience, be careful not to overexert yourself. The best way is to begin with, shorter sessions and slowly progress as your body gets used to it.
Furthermore, ensure the sauna is adequately ventilated and routinely maintained – extreme heat can lead to detrimental health risks if left unchecked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can A Sauna Be Used To Improve Flexibility And Range Of Motion?
Indisputably, infrared sauna sessions have been shown to elevate flexibility and range of motion in persons with arthritis. The soothing warmth from the sauna relaxes muscles, ultimately assisting in bettering joint movement.
What Is The Recommended Frequency For Using An Infrared Sauna?
To reap the full benefits of using an infrared sauna, arthritis patients should utilize one for 15-30 minutes two to three times a week. It’s also essential to stay hydrated prior to and following each session to maximize your experience.
Can Heat Make Your Arthritis Worse?
For arthritis, an abundance of heat can lead to heightened inflammation. This is why it's important to be aware of your bodily thresholds and recognize the need for rest whenever you experience distress or discomfort.
Conclusion
Infrared sauna therapy is a beneficial adjunctive therapy for people with rheumatoid arthritis due to its ability to reduce inflammation in the joints and increase blood flow throughout the body, which can help reduce joint pain and stiffness associated with this condition.
However, it's important to consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment plan, as some medical conditions may not be suitable for this type of therapy.
Additionally, it's important to follow all safety guidelines when using an infrared sauna, as overexposure could lead to dehydration or overheating, which could be dangerous if not monitored properly.
Sources:
- corso sauna manufaktur. Sauna: when and how much should I drink? What to eat? corso. Published October 6, 2020. Accessed January 29, 2023. https://www.corso-saunamanufaktur.com/en/sauna-eating-drinking/#
- NHS Choices. Overview - Osteoarthritis. Published 2023. Accessed January 29, 2023. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/osteoarthritis/
- NHS Choices. Overview - Rheumatoid arthritis. Published 2023. Accessed January 29, 2023. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/
- NHS Choices. Psoriatic arthritis. Published 2023. Accessed January 29, 2023. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/psoriatic-arthritis/
- NHS Choices. Overview - Fibromyalgia. Published 2023. Accessed January 29, 2023. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/fibromyalgia/
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