Find out what a medical sauna is, how they work to improve your health and some of the benefits that come from using them.
Introduction
Medical saunas are a type of sauna used to improve medical conditions. They are different from traditional saunas in that they use dry heat rather than wet heat. Medical saunas can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including respiratory problems and skin problems, and improve cardiovascular health.
They offer a wide range of health benefits, which is why they are becoming increasingly popular among people looking for an alternative or complementary treatment option.
This blog post will cover what a medical sauna is, the benefits of using one, and how to use a medical sauna safely.
With some research, you can easily find a medical sauna that will work for you and your specific needs.
What is a medical sauna?
A medical sauna is a sauna that uses dry heat to improve medical conditions. It is different from a traditional sauna in that it does not use wet heat, which can be harsh on the body.
In recent years, they have become increasingly popular as an alternative or complementary treatment option for various conditions. For example, a medical sauna emits beneficial infrared waves1 that penetrate the body, creating heat at a cellular level.
This process helps you to sweat and detoxify cells, and provides numerous medical benefits.
The mild temperatures of an infrared sauna allow people to enjoy longer, therapeutic sessions than traditional saunas offer.
The deep penetrating heat of an infrared sauna also offers relief from minor aches and pains and chronic pain such as fibromyalgia.
What is a medical sauna used for?
As the name suggests, a medical sauna treats various medical conditions and is most commonly used to improve respiratory problems, skin conditions, and cardiovascular disease.
These saunas have been used to treat long-term health issues for years, with some evidence suggesting2 that they may help. For example, high blood pressure, heart failure, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, headaches, type 2 diabetes, and arthritis are among the illnesses researched.
Although more extensive and accurate studies are needed, the results suggest that the full spectrum infrared saunas are very beneficial. However, some of these studies involved people using a regular sauna instead.
“Infrared sauna therapy differs from the ancient practice of using fire beneath a makeshift lodge to generate heat, instead utilizing infrared light waves to generate heat in the body. These waves penetrate deeper into the tissues without excessively raising the temperature of the sauna room, making this therapy ideal for people who can’t tolerate the heat and humidity of traditional sauna rooms and so might miss out on the potential benefits.”
Megan Patiry – muscle-boneclinic.com.au 3
What is the difference between a medical sauna and a regular sauna?
Saunas have long been a part of many civilizations. Sweating has always been seen as beneficial, and there’s something calm about sitting in a sauna and sweating everything out.
Traditionally, saunas were made from cedar wood and heated with rocks that had been heated in a fire. Water was poured over the stones to create steam, increasing the sauna’s temperature.
Nowadays, many different types of saunas are available, including the medical sauna. Medical saunas have been seen as a medical breakthrough for many people, with maximum health benefits.
The significant difference between the two is that a conventional sauna heats the air around you to the point that your body’s natural cooling mechanism is activated. This means raising blood closer to the skin’s surface and opening pores to release sweat.
A medical sauna emits a wavelength of light that your body can absorb without heating the surrounding area. Some medical saunas are also using 3D heat therapy which penetrates deep into the body’s tissues and cells.
What are the health benefits of a medical sauna?
There are claims of many different health benefits of using a medical sauna. Let’s take a look at some of the health benefits:
Improved heart health
The body’s temperature and heart rate will increase within a few minutes of sitting in a medical sauna. The heat from the sauna can also help widen blood vessels, lowering blood pressure4 and improving circulation.
These effects can benefit people with cardiovascular disease or risk factors for heart disease.
Soothing sore muscles
They also have a soothing effect on sore muscles5. After a workout, your muscles may feel tight and uncomfortable. In addition, the deep heat of an infrared sauna can help relax the muscles and reduce inflammation.
Detoxification
The rapidly heating sauna is said to promote detoxification by stimulating sweat glands and improving circulation. When sweating, the body releases toxins through the skin. This process is thought to improve liver function and strengthen your immune system.
Some of the other benefits include:
- Better sleep.
- Absolute pain relief
- Relaxation.
- Strengthen your immune system
- It helps in losing weight.
- Relief from pain in joints such as arthritis.
- Clean and clear skin.
How does the medical sauna work?
A medical sauna works by heating your body rather than the air around you. It does this through infrared radiation, which is absorbed by the body.
This type of sauna is different from a traditional sauna in that it doesn’t heat the air around you to the point that your body’s natural cooling mechanism is activated. This means that your blood vessels don’t dilate, and you won’t sweat as much.
These medical saunas have a rapid internal heating system and a very vital process; infrared radiation penetrates the body, causing it to heat up from the inside out. The heating process causes an increase in blood flow and a deep sweating action, which can have many health benefits.
How much is a medical sauna?
There are different models of medical saunas on the market. The price of a medical sauna can range from $3500 to $10,000.
For example, a Medical 3 Infrared Sauna is available at $3,649 on Recovery For Athletes6 website.
You can also compare different models on the sites. Some of the well-known websites that sell medical saunas are listed below:
● Saunanwater7
Are there any dangers in using a medical sauna?
Like everything else, medical saunas also have pros and cons, and some risks are involved in using them. Let’s take a look at some of the risks:
According to a 2018 comprehensive analysis10, sauna use might induce the following negative symptoms and signs:
● Discomfort from mild to moderate heat
● Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension.
● Dizziness or lightheadedness.
● Transient leg discomfort
If you use an infrared sauna for a long time, you may get overheated and dehydrated; nevertheless, if utilized for a lengthy amount of time, it can also induce heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
What types of medical saunas are available?
There are three major types of these saunas available; they are all distinguished based on the range of infrared wavelengths11 they emit.
Each has a safe cool-down system with efficient heating technology and an insulated airflow system.
The three types are as follows:
Near-infrared saunas
These medical saunas have a low heat level, emit near-infrared wavelengths, and are used for relaxation and improving circulation.
Mid-infrared saunas
These saunas have a moderate heat level and emit mid-infrared wavelengths, and are used for detoxification and relief from muscle pain.
Far-infrared saunas
These saunas have a high heat level, emit far-infrared wavelengths, and are used for weight loss, relaxation, and detoxification.
Each type of medical sauna has its own set of benefits. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor before using any sauna, especially if you have any medical condition.
There is also the brand MedicalSauna.com13 which is said to be the ultimate medical sauna, designed by doctors and coming with a 3 year warranty. These saunas have 3D heat therapy, a hot cold cleansing system, a rapid internal heating system, an insulated airflow system and a safe cool down system. You can view them HERE13.
Advantages of using a medical sauna
Advantages:
● Can help improve circulation
● Soothe sore muscles
● Detoxify the body
● Promote better liver function
● Boost the immune system
“If you have any health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart problems, or are under medical care, get cleared by your doctor before your first session. Even though infrared saunas have been found to be fairly safe, you don’t want to take any chances when it comes to your health and safety.”
healthline.com/health/infrared-sauna-benefits12
Disadvantages of using a medical sauna
Disadvantages:
● May induce negative symptoms in some people
● It can cause dehydration if used for a long time
● Risk of a heat stroke.
FAQs about Medical Saunas:
How long should you stay in a medical sauna?
Expose yourself to the heat for as little time as possible. The longer you spend in the sauna, the more likely you will become dehydrated. It depends upon your age and medical conditions, but a maximum of 20 minutes of exposure to the heat is recommended.
Can Covid live in a sauna?
It depends upon several factors, such as space in the sauna, number of people using it, and length of time.
There is a danger if you don’t follow social distance guidelines. However, it is determined by the size and how they may change their business procedures due to the virus.
Can you get vitamin D from the infrared sauna?
Vitamin D is one of the most common deficiencies in the world. Vitamin D is not only a structural component of your immune system but is also required for bone and tooth health and skin integrity. The infrared sauna naturally raises your vitamin D levels!
Are medical saunas worth it?
It depends upon your need and budget, but if you are looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, medical saunas are worth it.
Final words
In conclusion, medical saunas have many benefits, but some risks are also involved in using them. Therefore, it is essential to understand the functioning of these saunas and the different types available before making a decision.
Consult your doctor if you have any medical conditions to ensure that using a medical sauna is safe.
I hope this article helped you understand what medical saunas are and how they can benefit you. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask in the comments below.
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Reference List:
- 1. ‘Sunlighten Medical Grade Infrared Sauna’, Kinetic Edge HG. Accessed online at https://kineticedgehg.com/pages/sunlighten-medical-grade-infrared-sauna on Sep 17, 2022.
- 2. ‘What is an infrared sauna? Does it have health benefits?’, Brent A. Bauer, MD, Mayo Clinic, Published: June 11, 2022. Accessed online at https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/infrared-sauna/faq-20057954 on Sep 17, 2022.
- 3. ‘8 Benefits Of Using An Infrared Sauna’, Megan Patiry, Muscle & Bone Clinic. Accessed online at https://muscle-boneclinic.com.au/8-benefits-of-infrared-sauna/ on Sep 17, 2022.
- 4. ‘Far-infrared saunas for treatment of cardiovascular risk factors’, NCBI. Published: July 2009. Accessed online at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2718593/ on Sep 17, 2022.
- 5. ‘Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review’, Joy Hussain and Marc Cohen. NCBI. Published: April 24, 2018. Accessed online at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5941775/ on Sep 17, 2022.
- 6. https://www.recoveryforathletes.com/products/medical-3-sauna
- 7. https://www.saunanwater.com/
- 8. https://infraredsauna.com/
- 9. https://thatcherpools.com/finnleo-saunas/infrasauna/
- 10. ‘Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review’, Joy Hussain and Marc Cohen, Hindawi. Published: April 24, 2018. Accessed online at https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2018/1857413/ on Sep 17, 2022.
- 11. ‘Near vs Far Infrared Saunas: The Difference and the Science’, Stefan Filippo, KeepmePrime.com. Accessed online at https://keepmeprime.com/near-vs-far-infrared-saunas/ on Sep 17, 2022.
- 12. ‘Is an Infrared Sauna Better Than a Traditional Sauna?’, Healthline.com. Accessed online at https://www.healthline.com/health/infrared-sauna-benefits#How-do-you-use-an-infrared-sauna? on Sep 17, 2022.
- 13. https://www.medicalsaunas.com/medical3.php
