Infrared sauna

An infrared sauna uses infrared heaters to emit infrared light experienced as radiant heat which is absorbed by the surface of the skin. Traditional saunas heat the body primarily by conduction and convection from the heated air and by radiation of the heated surfaces in the sauna room.

Health benefit claims

Arthritis

A study of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis showed a reduction in pain, stiffness and fatigue during infrared sauna therapy, but since results from the study "did not reach statistical significance" there is no clear or certain relationship between reducing symptoms and using infrared sauna therapy.

Pain relief

According to some users and scientific studies, regular usage of the IR Sauna can assist in alleviating pain. The heating of the body's muscles and tissues by the radiant heat may decrease the aches and pains by relaxing the muscles.

Toxins

"Toxins" and "toxicity" are general terms used by alternative health professionals and some doctors to cover a wide range of substances from petrochemicals to heavy metals, which are excreted in very small quantities (less than 1%) while sweating. See sweat composition. Proponents of FIR sweating claim a toxin content of up to 15% vs. conventional sweating. Saunas may be useful to those who cannot sweat from exercise due to their health problems.