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The following is the sole opinion of the author after researching Infrared
Sauna Therapy.
First I must point out the fact there were very few papers found which have
evaluated the clinical effects of infrared therapy. I was unable to find
any articles that I felt substantiated the use of this modality.
Many of the articles were testimonials or were not in peer reviewed journals and
contrasted one another. It is essential that an evaluation of this
modality take place (using randomized control studies).
IR needs to be studied and compared with other methods of heating tissues
such as microwave, wax, hot packs, and hot water soaks in order to find the most
efficacious method in each situation. Some questions need to be answered
before we as a medical community can dismiss it:
- What are the advantages/disadvantages of IR compared with other types of
heating?
- Does IR cause changes in collagen that are solely beneficial?
- Is there reflex relaxation of muscle?
- What effect does superficial vasodilatation have on different conditions?
- Are any of the other numerous claims true?
All of these questions and more need to be addressed to establish a sound
basis for the active choice of infrared as the preferred treatment in identified
conditions. One must remember before purchasing or using the sauna that it
is an experimental alternative product. In other words, it is unproven but
may have some plausible rationale and needs responsible investigation.
Never rely on testimonials to judge this (or any other) product's
effectiveness. Always speak with your physician before using a sauna for
any reason.
I hope you as a reader will take advantage of the links provided (the few
that there are) and will determine for yourself how to evaluate the
effectiveness of this product. I hope my web site has helped you in your
decision.
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