Infrared heat therapy has gained popularity as a natural way to alleviate pain, enhance athletic performance, and speed up recovery. Unlike traditional heating methods that warm the air, infrared heat directly warms the body through electromagnetic waves, penetrating deep into the tissues and triggering a host of therapeutic benefits. In recent years, there has been a growing body of research on the benefits of infrared heat for various health conditions. With this boon, wearable heat pad technology is taking a leap forward in what is offered to consumers and a new standard is being set on how we manage and treat pain.

What is Far Infrared?

Far infrared (FIR) radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation that has a longer wavelength than visible light. It is commonly used in infrared heat therapy because it can penetrate deeper into the skin and tissues than near-infrared (NIR) or mid-infrared (MIR) radiation. FIR is absorbed by water molecules in the body, causing them to vibrate and generate heat. This heat can then trigger a range of therapeutic benefits, including increased circulation, reduced inflammation, and improved tissue repair.

Proven Benefits of Far Infrared Heat Therapy:

Pain Management: Chronic low back pain is a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. Gale, Rothbart, et al (2006) conducted a randomized controlled trial to investigate the effect of FIR radiation on pain and mobility in patients with chronic low back pain. The study found that FIR radiation significantly reduced pain and improved mobility in patients with chronic low back pain, suggesting that FIR heat therapy may be an effective non-pharmacological treatment for this condition.

Athletic Performance: Athletes are always looking for ways to enhance their performance and reduce the risk of injury. Scoon et al. (2007) conducted a study to investigate the effect of post-exercise sauna bathing on the endurance performance of competitive male runners. The study found that post-exercise sauna bathing improved endurance performance, indicating that FIR heat therapy may be a useful tool for athletes to improve their performance.

Recovery: Muscle damage and inflammation are common after intense physical activity, leading to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Leal Junior et al. (2015) investigated the effect of FIR laser therapy on skeletal muscle recovery in athletes. The study found that FIR laser therapy applied before high-intensity exercises significantly reduced muscle damage and inflammation and improved recovery time, suggesting that FIR heat therapy may be an effective tool for promoting muscle recovery in athletes.

The Future is Wearable

As we look to the future of health and wellness, infrared heat therapy is going to play a significant role. Wearable devices that monitor vital signs, activity levels, and sleep patterns can provide valuable insights into overall health and help individuals make better choices about their lifestyle. Incorporating FIR heat therapy into wearable devices provides a non-invasive way to deliver its therapeutic benefits, allowing individuals to take control of their health and wellness from the comfort of their own homes.

A perfect example if this is the L1.  A lower back infrared heating pad combining topical and FIR heat to give users autonomy over their pain and recovery.  With a discreet form factor and Bluetooth controls, Infraway users can experience FIR therapy whenever, wherever.  The benefits of FIR heat therapy for pain management, athletic performance, and recovery are clear. And we want to empower consumers by providing effective therapy is that customizable for the individual’s needs and can be seamlessly worn in any setting.  True ownership over one’s pain, athletic recovery, and overall wellbeing.

Learn more about Infraway and the launch of our flagship product ,the L1, here.

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