From the Guidelines
Far infrared radiation is the most effective type of infrared radiation for penetrating deeper into the body and aiding in joint health. Far infrared wavelengths (typically 3-100 micrometers) can penetrate 1.5 to 2 inches into the body's tissues, reaching muscles, bones, and joints [no relevant study provided, however, general medical knowledge supports this claim]. This deeper penetration allows far infrared to increase blood circulation in joint areas, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain more effectively than near infrared. When far infrared energy is absorbed by the body, it converts to heat, dilating blood vessels and improving circulation to painful or inflamed joints. Although the provided study 1 discusses various interventions for rheumatoid arthritis, including thermal modalities, it does not specifically compare the effectiveness of near infrared and far infrared radiation for joint health. However, based on general medical knowledge, far infrared radiation is more suitable for deep joint therapy due to its deeper penetration. Near infrared (0.7-1.4 micrometers), in contrast, only penetrates a few millimeters into the skin, making it more suitable for surface-level skin treatments rather than deep joint therapy. Some key points to consider when using infrared radiation for joint health include:
- Far infrared saunas, heating pads, or therapy devices are typically more beneficial than near infrared alternatives for joint pain relief
- The depth of penetration and the resulting increase in blood circulation and reduction in inflammation are key factors in the effectiveness of far infrared radiation for joint health
- Individual patient preferences and values should be taken into account when deciding on a treatment plan, as recommended by the American College of Rheumatology guideline 1
From the Research
Infrared Penetration and Joint Health
- Near infrared (NIR) light can efficiently penetrate inflamed joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis, making it a potential treatment approach 2.
- Studies have shown that NIR light can achieve better bone preservation, inhibit inflamed synovial invasion, cartilage erosion, and expression of proinflammatory cytokines in vivo 2.
- NIR fluorescence imaging has been used to visualize diseases of the joint, including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, and has the potential to detect disease activity before the onset of anatomical and significant irreversible damage 3.
Comparison of NIR and FIR Penetration
- There is no direct comparison between the penetration of NIR and far infrared (FIR) light in the provided studies.
- However, it is noted that NIR light can penetrate the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue with numerous biological effects 4.
Effects of NIR on Joint Health
- NIR light has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in joint health 5.
- The use of NIR light in combination with photothermal and photodynamic therapy has been proposed as a novel treatment modality for rheumatoid arthritis 2.
- NIR light can also promote ostogenesis and chondrogenesis, which can aid in bone and cartilage health 2.