Inflammation is a problem that affects millions of people around the world. It can cause pain, redness, and swelling, which can make everyday activities difficult. What is the solution? Can infrared therapy really help? Read on to find out.
What is Infrared Therapy?
Infrared therapy is a type of thermal therapy that uses infrared radiation to achieve therapeutic effects. This type of treatment is most often used to treat inflammation, pain, and other medical conditions. It is thought to work by heating tissues and promoting the release of substances that can reduce inflammation. Some studies have shown that it may be effective in treating certain types of pain, including pain from osteoarthritis and chronic neuropathic pain. However, there is limited evidence to support the use of infrared light therapy for other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or spinal cord injury.
There are several types of devices used for infrared radiation therapy, including lasers, light boxes, and pads. Some doctors prefer one type over another based on the condition being treated.
One of the main factors to consider when choosing an infrared therapy device is the wavelength of radiation that it uses. Devices that use short-wavelength radiation (such as 700-1000nm) are generally more effective at treating pain than devices that use long-wavelength radiation (such as 1310-1450nm). Additionally, some devices use both short- and long-wavelength radiation simultaneously to achieve the best results.
What are the benefits of infrared therapy?
One of the main benefits of infrared therapy is that it is non-invasive. This means that it does not require surgery or anesthesia which can be a big benefit for some patients. In addition, infrared therapy does not cause any skin burns or unwanted side effects.
Another benefit is that it can be used in combination with other treatments like medication and physiotherapy. By using this combination approach, patients are able to get better results faster than if they were treated solely with one treatment.
Source: brainhealthclinic.org
Does infrared therapy help with inflammation?
Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection. It causes swelling, redness, and pain. This condition can lead to health problems if it’s not treated properly. There are many causes of inflammation, including:
- environmental factors like smoke, pollution, and UV rays
- physical factors like surgery, trauma, or arthritis
- emotional factors like stress or anxiety
There are many types of therapies for inflammation, and it can be difficult to decide which is the best option for a particular individual. Some therapies, such as topical creams or injections, can be administered by a doctor without any previous medical experience. Other treatments, like supplements or exercise, may require more research and consultation with a healthcare professional.
Evidence exists that infrared therapy may be helpful in reducing inflammation. A study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that infrared therapy may be effective in treating inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. In another study, infrared therapy was found to be helpful in reducing the number of cytokines ( proteins involved in inflammation) in the blood.
However, not all studies have found that infrared therapy is effective in reducing inflammation. Some studies have shown that it may actually increase inflammation levels. It is important to consider your particular situation before using this type of treatment.
Side Effects of Infrared Therapy
These include skin reddening, heat tolerance issues, and eye irritation. While these side effects are rare, they should be monitored by a doctor if they occur. Additionally, it is important to note that this therapy is not always effective for treating certain types of inflammation.
How Often Should You Use It?
Source: bestqool.com
Some people may only need to use infrared therapy a few times a week, while others may use it every day. Ultimately, the amount of infrared therapy you use depends on your specific needs and condition.
If you’re new to this type of treatment, start by using it less frequently and gradually increase the frequency as your body becomes more used to it. Always consult with your doctor before starting any new treatment plan.
What are some alternative methods for treating inflammation?
Various treatment methods are available to help with this condition. Some of them work by targeting the root cause of the inflammation, while others work to suppress the symptoms. Here is a brief overview of some of the most popular therapies for inflammation:
1. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a type of traditional Chinese medicine that uses tiny needles to treat various health problems. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective at treating inflammation, although there is not much evidence to support its use in specific cases.
2. Anti-inflammatory drugs
Anti-inflammatory drugs are medications that help reduce the symptoms of inflammation. These medications can be prescription or over-the-counter, and they come in a variety of forms including pills, creams, and injections. Some anti-inflammatory drugs are also known as painkillers or anti-insomnia medications.
3. Chiropractic care
Chiropractic care is based on the theory that problem areas in the spine can cause pain and other problems throughout the body. Chiropractors use adjustments to try to correct these problems, which may lead to improved symptoms related to inflammation. However, chiropractic care is not recommended for everyone and should only be used under supervision by a qualified doctor.
Source: chiroeco.com
4. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a well-known and widely used treatment for many conditions, including inflammation. Physical therapy can help improve the range of motion, flexibility, and strength in the areas that are affected by inflammation. Additionally, physical therapy can help reduce pain and swelling.
5. Medications
Some commonly used medications include NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), steroids, and adrenal hormones. It is important to discuss your options with your doctor before starting any medication, as each person’s situation is different and some medications may not be right for you.
Conclusion
Infrared therapy is said to help with a variety of different conditions, including inflammation. This is due in part to the fact that infrared energy can stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. If you are interested in trying out infrared therapy for your own health, be sure to speak with your doctor first and make sure it is safe for you.
