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Infrared Therapy Indications

Infrared therapy involves a type of low-energy laser that uses light in the infrared spectrum to heat an object. Provided by light-emitting diodes (LED), it will not damage or burn skin. Many companies sell infrared therapy equipment or services. Although company-claimed benefits are many, most are unproven, and many of the treatments are not covered by insurance. However, infrared therapy seems to have no bad side effects and is not invasive.

  1. Infrared Lamp Saunas or Cabins

    • These small, personal enclosures use infrared heat lamps to provide healing dry heat to the whole body. Most are made of wood, and prices in 2009 ranged from $279 to $3,899. Manufacturers claim that detoxification caused by sweating effectively releases heavy metals and toxic chemicals, including nicotine, prescription and street drugs, and cholesterol.
      Manufacturers also claim that heat defends the body against bacteria and enhances the immune system. High levels of stress cause or exacerbate many chronic illnesses. Infrared light therapy causes capillaries to dilate, improving circulation and leading to relaxation and reduced stress.
      Other advertised benefits include weight control and cardiovascular conditioning. Weight loss from perspiration is temporary. However, releasing toxins and improving blood flow will speed the metabolic rate, increasing calories burned. Full-body infrared light therapy increases heart rate and creates a beneficial heart stress. The companies claim this substitutes for exercise in those who cannot perform physical exercise.

    Small LEDs

    • Small LEDs may be fitted into pads and applied directly to the skin. Localized infrared light therapy seems effective in reducing the pain of arthritis, sprains, muscle spasms and minor injuries. The concentrated heat opens pores and deep-cleans skin, resulting in improvement in acne, minor burns, rashes and eczema. NASA has completed experiments proving LED infrared light therapy successful in healing wounds more quickly, especially in a microgravity environment. Although no company claims to cure cancer with infrared light therapy, burns and sores from radiation and chemotherapy may heal more quickly with this treatment.
      Because elderly patients with neuropathy do not have the feeling in their feet necessary for good balance, they are at increased risk of falling. According to a study by physical therapist Alan B. Kochman, falling is the leading cause of injury in people over 65. Infrared therapy helped restore at least some feeling in all who were treated during Kochman's study.
      Under NASA, the Medical College of Wisconsin is examining the affects of infrared therapy on mouth sores. The sores, caused by chemotherapy or radiation, may have serious side effects, including inability to eat or drink and possibility of infection.

    Infrared Coagulation

    • According to a bulletin from the Aetna insurance company, patients with first- and second-degree hemorrhoids may be successfully treated with infrared coagulation, thus avoiding more-invasive surgery.

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