Has anyone had success with infra red therapy to treat PMR pain?

[Smallstepsforward]

Hi there - I’m wondering if anyone has had any relief from symptoms using infra red therapy?

Thanks

[PMRpro Ambassador]

A similar question was asked recently and I think the overall opinion was, not a lot!

I used to find the sauna or steam room at the gym helpful if the pool was too cool for me to do my daily aquafit class. I have used an infrared sauna cabinet more recently but really didn't feel the same sort of effect or benefit.

Whatever sort of heat source you choose, the effect doesn't last very long unless you conbine it with some movement to maintain the vasodilatory effect on the blood flow to the muscles.

[Smallstepsforward in reply to PMRpro]

Thanks so much. I can hire some far infrared kits and will give it a go anyway. Anything to ease the pain!

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Smallstepsforward]

Enough pred id the only real answer - I spent 5 years looking for ways to ease the pain.

[Smallstepsforward]

So frustrating isn’t it!

[piglette]

I have spent a fortune on various things that could help the PMR. I have still found the best thing is a warm bath or shower and one of those things you stick in the microwave and then put it on your neck or wherever.

[Constance13 in reply to piglette]

I agree - but bath only. No-one could have been as stupid as I was when we decided on a wet room. I have had one sort of arthritis for over 40 years and soaking in a bath for 20 minutes a day really helped. Now (Sero negative Poly Arthritis) I have no chance of getting rid of pain. Tablets don't do it, exercise doesn't do it, gels don't help, etc etc.

[Smallstepsforward]

I have rented a Far infrared therapy cocoon equipment for a month's trial. It isn't like a sauna or other heat therapy. will report back if I have any green shoots of improvement.

[DodiR]

We have bought an infra red cabin many years ago as replacement for going to local sauna. Had to do this as I could not cope with the fragrances all around me in the sauna rooms....have MCS unfortunatly.

Now with PMR I find it helps to relax and the get off to sleep quickly but not much help with pain.

[Smallstepsforward]

Thanks so much. This is far infrared technology which is different to infrared - I’ll let the group know how it goes.