Back pain sufferers unite! We’ve talked about this before but up to 84% of adults worldwide suffer from back pain at some point in their lives. Well, it’s your lucky day. Because infrared heating pads & their wonderful benefits are here to save the day.
In the world of health & wellness, infrared heating pads have been making waves. These wonderful mats are a powerful, non-invasive tool for pain relief, muscle relaxation & an improved well-being.
In this article, we will delve into the numerous infrared heating pad benefits, how to properly use one & why you should consider incorporating this innovative product into your daily self-care routine.
So sit back, relax & enjoy the radiant heat this article brings.
How infrared heating pads work
First thing’s first. How do infrared heating pads even work? Are they different from a regular heating pad? If so, how?
Well, let’s take a peek, shall we?
The science behind infrared technology
Infrared heating pads utilize far infrared (FIR) technology to emit a form of radiant heat that penetrates deep into the body’s tissues. Unlike traditional heating pads that only heat the skin’s surface, the infrared version provides deep penetrating heat that reaches the muscles, joints & even organs.
This type of heat is similar to the warmth we feel from sunlight, but without the harmful UV rays.
Far Infrared (FIR) vs. Near Infrared (NIR)
We’ve covered this previously, but FIR has a longer wavelength than near-infrared light (NIR), which allows them to penetrate deeper into the body. This deep penetration is what makes FIR heating pads so effective at providing relief from various ailments like muscle stiffness & joint pain.
Deep penetration of infrared heat
The deep penetration of infrared heat is one of the key reasons why these heating pads are so effective.
By reaching deeper into the body, they can target the root causes of pain & discomfort, providing lasting relief & promoting natural healing processes.
Infrared mats and pain relief
As we mentioned at the top, infrared mats are the bee’s knees when it comes to pain relief in sore muscles. Let’s take a peek at why.
- Chronic Pain Management
These units have been proven to provide relief from chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, sciatica & lower back pain. The deep penetrating heat helps to relax tense muscles & soothe inflamed joints, resulting in a significant reduction in pain levels.
2. Joint Pain and Arthritis Relief
It can be particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from joint pain & arthritis. By increasing blood flow to the affected area & reducing inflammation, these heating pads can help alleviate stiffness & improve joint mobility.
Muscle relaxation & recovery
Let’s take a look at how & why infrared mats are so good for muscle recovery & relaxation.
- Post-workout Recovery
Intense workouts can lead to muscle soreness & inflammation. Infrared heating pads can aid in post-workout recovery by increasing circulation, reducing muscle tension & promoting the removal of lactic acid from the muscles. It also can speed up recovery time!
2. Reducing Muscle Tension
Deep penetrating heat can help relax tight muscles & reduce muscle spasms. This can be especially helpful for individuals who experience muscle tension & discomfort due to stress or poor posture.
Enhanced Circulation
- The role of heat in promoting blood flow
Heat therapy has long been used to promote blood flow & circulation. Infrared heating pads take this a step further by delivering deep penetrating heat that can reach the body’s tissues & organs. Improved circulation can promote the delivery of oxygen & nutrients to cells, supporting overall health & well-being.
2. Benefits for the cardiovascular system
Increased circulation can have a positive impact on the cardiovascular system by reducing blood pressure, improving blood vessel function & supporting heart health.
Boosted Immune System
- Raising core body temperature
Infrared heating pads can help raise the core body temperature, which in turn stimulates the immune system. This can lead to an increased production of white blood cells & other immune-boosting components, helping to ward off illness & promote overall health.
- Stimulating the immune response
These units activate the immune response by stimulating the production of heat shock proteins. These proteins play a crucial role in the body’s defense against pathogens & can help boost the immune system.
Heat vs. ice therapy
Ice therapy is often recommended for acute injuries to reduce swelling & inflammation. Meanwhile heat therapy, particularly deep penetrating heat such as that from an infrared mat, is more effective for chronic inflammation & pain relief. Typically, these two treatments can be alternated for best effect.
Long-term Benefits for Chronic Inflammation
Consistent, deep penetrating heat can help manage chronic inflammation, which has been linked to numerous health issues such as arthritis, heart disease & diabetes. Incorporating infrared heat therapy into your daily routine can lead to long-term benefits & improved overall health.
Improved Sleep Quality
Heat therapy has been shown to help relax the body & mind, promoting a sense of calm & relaxation that can lead to improved sleep quality. Infrared heating pads can be used before bedtime to encourage relaxation & prepare the body for a restful night’s sleep.
Sleep benefits for overall health
Getting adequate sleep is essential for maintaining overall health & well-being. By improving sleep quality, infrared heating pads can help support the body’s natural healing processes, reduce stress & improve cognitive function.
Infrared heating pad best practices
- Choosing the right pad
When selecting an infrared heating pad, consider factors such as size, temperature settings & additional features such as auto shut-off & timer functions. Reading customer reviews & researching reputable brands can also help you find the best product for your needs. - Frequency & duration of use
The frequency & duration of use for an infrared heating pad will depend on your individual needs & preferences. It is generally recommended to use the heating pad for 20-30 minutes per session. It is safe to operate several times per day, depending on the severity of your symptoms & your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
Infrared vs. traditional heating pads
Infrared heating pads offer several advantages over traditional products. This includes deep penetration of heat, targeted pain relief & improved circulation.
While traditional heating pads can provide temporary relief from pain & discomfort, infrared heating pads deliver more lasting benefits for overall health & well-being.
Choosing the best options
We did a deep dive on the best products out there in 2023. But the Cole’s notes are that when deciding between an infrared & a traditional unit, we recommend going infrared every time for the documented health benefits alone.
Article wrap-up
Whew! That was a lot to unpack. Let’s recap what we’ve learned:
- Infrared heating pads provide numerous health benefits, from pain relief & muscle relaxation to improved sleep quality & immune system support.
- By understanding how these innovative devices work & incorporating them into your daily self-care routine, you can experience the transformative effects.
- Life is genuinely better without back pain. You are not going to go wrong with any of the products mentioned in our deep dive.
- Sleep better with deep muscle relaxation!
We hope you found some value in this article. We wish the very best in your meditation practice & we hope you maximize your experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We HIGHLY recommend consulting your healthcare provider before using an infrared heating pad during pregnancy. Although there is limited research on the use of heat therapy during pregnancy, it’s essential to prioritize safety & follow the advice of your healthcare professional.
The recommended use of an infrared heating pad is 20 to 30 minutes per session. However, the duration may vary depending on the severity of your symptoms & your healthcare provider’s recommendations. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines & consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Infrared heating pads are generally considered safe & non-invasive. However, some potential risks include burns (if the heating pad is too hot) & skin irritation (if used on broken or irritated skin). To minimize risks, follow the manufacturer’s instructions & safety guidelines & consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
It is HIGHLY recommended that you contact your healthcare provider prior to use of an infrared heating pad if you have a pacemaker or another implanted medical device. While there is limited research on the interaction between heat therapy & implanted devices, it’s always best to prioritize safety & follow your healthcare provider’s advice.
Cleaning your heating pad regularly can help maintain its effectiveness & prolong its lifespan. Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions, which typically involve wiping down the surface with a damp cloth & mild soap, then allowing it to dry completely before using it again.
It’s generally not recommended to use an infrared heating pad on your face or head, as the skin in these areas is more sensitive & prone to burns. Instead, consider using a heating pad specifically designed for facial use or consult with a healthcare professional for alternative options.
While using an infrared heating pad before bedtime may help promote relaxation & improve sleep quality, it’s generally not recommended to sleep with the heating pad turned on. This can increase the risk of burns & overheating. Instead, use the heating pad before going to bed & turn it off before you fall asleep. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines & safety recommendations.
A message from Sauna Squad
We hope we’ve provided some value in your research. But if you have any questions or concerns, hit us up on Instagram @thesaunasquad or feel free to fire us a message on our contact page.