Can Infrared Saunas Help with Fibromyalgia?

Yes, infrared saunas can help people with fibromyalgia by offering relief from chronic pain, fatigue, and tension. Fibromyalgia is a condition marked by widespread pain, and people are constantly seeking alternatives to ease their symptoms.

One method that’s been gaining popularity is infrared sauna therapy. It’s not a cure, but it can help improve some of the more uncomfortable parts of the condition.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes widespread pain all over the body. It also often comes with extreme tiredness, sleep issues, and trouble with memory or concentration. It can feel overwhelming at times.

Many people say they deal with what's often called "fibro fog", which affects their daily functioning.

There’s no known cure, but a combination of treatments—medication, lifestyle changes, and therapies like infrared saunas—can help manage the symptoms.

How Infrared Saunas Work

Infrared saunas work by using infrared light to warm your body from the inside out, as opposed to traditional saunas that heat the air around you. The heat penetrates deeper into your muscles and tissues, which helps relieve stiffness and tension.

For people with fibromyalgia, this deeper heat can mean more significant pain relief and relaxation. It’s like having a warm blanket for your muscles, but without getting overly hot and sweaty.

Benefits of Infrared Saunas for Fibromyalgia

Yes, infrared saunas can help with multiple fibromyalgia symptoms. Here are some key benefits:

• Pain Relief: The heat from infrared saunas helps to relax muscles and improve blood circulation. For those dealing with fibromyalgia, this can result in noticeable pain relief, especially after a few sessions. Even in ancient times, heat was used for healing, and this modern take on it provides that same comfort.

• Reduced Fatigue: Regular use of an infrared sauna may help reduce the overall fatigue that fibromyalgia sufferers experience. By promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension, it can make you feel less drained and more energetic.

• Improved Sleep: Since infrared sauna sessions promote relaxation and reduce pain, many people find that their sleep quality improves. Getting good sleep is already a challenge for those with fibromyalgia, so any improvement is a plus.

• Detoxification: Saunas make you sweat, which helps your body detoxify. While there’s no concrete evidence tying toxins to fibromyalgia, detoxification can still make you feel better and more refreshed.

Infrared Saunas vs. Traditional Saunas: Which is Better for Fibromyalgia?

Infrared saunas are generally better suited for people with fibromyalgia compared to traditional saunas. Why?

The heat from infrared saunas is more tolerable because they operate at lower temperatures while still providing the same, if not better, muscle relaxation benefits. Traditional saunas can sometimes feel too hot, making it uncomfortable for people with fibromyalgia who are sensitive to higher temperatures.

Infrared saunas, with their gentler heat, allow you to get the benefits without pushing your body too hard.

Read also: Infrared vs. Traditional Saunas

How Often Should Fibromyalgia Patients Use Infrared Saunas?

Fibromyalgia patients can use infrared saunas about 2-3 times a week to start. If your body responds well, you can gradually increase the frequency. However, it’s always best to start slow and listen to how your body reacts.

Overdoing it might lead to feeling worse, and no one wants that. A 15 to 30-minute session is usually enough, and remember, staying hydrated is key!

Read also: How long should you stay in a sauna?

Are Infrared Saunas Safe for Fibromyalgia Patients?

Yes, infrared saunas are generally safe for people with fibromyalgia, but it’s crucial to stay hydrated and not overexert yourself during sessions. If you have underlying health conditions, like heart disease or blood pressure issues, it’s smart to check with your doctor first.

The heat can sometimes cause dizziness or dehydration, so you’ll want to make sure you’re in a good physical state before diving into regular sauna sessions.

Final Thoughts: Is Infrared Sauna Therapy Right for You?

If you have fibromyalgia and are looking for a way to manage pain, improve sleep, and feel more relaxed, infrared sauna therapy might be worth trying. It won’t cure the condition, but it can certainly make life a little more bearable.

Start slow, see how your body reacts, and always consult a healthcare professional if you're unsure.

As Benjamin Franklin once said, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure", and in this case, proactive self-care can go a long way.