The heat generated by Infrared radiation (IR) is transmitted through electromagnetic waves. These wavelengths are beyond the visible-light range and can only be felt as heat.
Think of the warmth of sunlight on your skin on a bright morning. This is a result of the infrared radiation from the sun. Unlike ultraviolet radiation, infrared light has no adverse effects on the human body.
The wavelength range of infrared radiation is between 760 nm and 100,000 nm. Once plugged into a power source, infrared heating pads convert electricity into infrared light that penetrates deeper into the subcutaneous tissues. In the next stage, mechanical conduction allows the heat to penetrate further.
If you have visited an infrared sauna, you might have noticed that light, instead of heating elements, is used to deliver heat to your body. Besides, infrared radiation does not heat up the air around you but heats up the body directly.
This rise in body temperature has various effects on cell chemistry through the process of Photobiomodulation (PBM). For this reason, infrared heating pads are more beneficial than regular heating pads.
Beyond that, an infrared heating pad has the added benefit of being portable and ready for home use. The pads can be classified depending on the frequency of the wavelengths generated. The frequencies closest to the visible spectrum generate near-infrared heat, while larger frequencies generate far-infrared heat.
Note, the lower the wavelength, the better the penetrating power of infrared radiation. So, near-infrared radiation can penetrate deeper into the skin, generally up to a depth of 5 mm. But that doesn’t make far-infrared light therapy less beneficial. In fact, both forms of infrared heat therapy have some forms of benefits.
Infrared Heating Pad Pros and Cons
Pros
- Super convenient with easy portability and convenient storage
- Come with a temperature controller to adjust heat output. Some pads also have timers or automatic shut-offs.
- The pads can be used on a larger area like the lower back or for targeting smaller areas like the wrist
- Allows deeper heat penetration in the body
- Works well for pain management and boosts recovery
- The pads come with an affordable price tag and offer great value in the long run
One big advantage of infrared heating pads is they are flexible and can be used on different parts of the body. Their compact size makes them more portable than sauna blankets. Unlike blankets, you don’t need to lie down while using these pads.
The localized use of infrared heating pads eliminates the chances of experiencing heat discomfort or intolerance. Besides, there are no risks of burns and unwanted side effects resulting from pain medications. Both near and far infrared rays can penetrate through clothes, bandages, and dressings.
Also, the infrared pads also come in various sizes. Depending on the type of treatment you need, you can pick a small pad or a large infrared mat for lying down. Even though infrared heating pads are more expensive, their ease of use and enhanced healing effects are worth the extra price. And since they are designed for long-term use you will end up saving money.
Then again, some people may end up feeling worse after an infrared sauna. With heating pads, there’s no risk of that happening.
Cons
- They are more expensive than regular heating pads
- Some infrared heating pads are stiffer. It’s not easy to mold them around the body like regular pads
- Some infrared heating pads may have high EMF emissions which can be harmful.
Those without any specific medical requirements may get discouraged by the higher price of an infrared heating pad. Many pads also come with healing crystals like amethyst or tourmaline that add to the cost. If crystal healing is not your thing, the extra cost is unnecessary.
Keep in mind, not every infrared heating pad is portable. Larger mats are heavier and will need considerable storage space. If you lack space or plan to travel with the mat, make sure to pick the right size.
Before buying infrared heating pads, make sure that the electric and magnetic field (EMF) exposure from them is within safe limits. To be fair, there’s no conclusive evidence supporting the fact that higher EMF exposure leads to increased health risks. But considering the uncertainty about the issue, you might want to reduce EMF exposure levels.
Benefits on Infrared Heating Pads
The deep-penetrating heat from a far infrared heating pad has multiple health benefits. Some of them are listed below.
- Helps in relaxation and improves sleep quality
- Improves blood circulation
- Helps in reducing chronic pain from conditions like spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis
- May promote the healing of wounds and damaged tissue.
- It can help in reducing inflammation and promoting muscle growth in athletes
Research has indicated that far infrared radiation increases arterial blood flow and reduces blood pressure. This has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system and also boosts the immune system.
The exact mechanism of how infrared therapy influences arterial blood flow is still not known. It has been proven that nitric oxide plays an important role in dilating the blood vessels and is crucial for reducing coronary risk factors. Far infrared therapy can boost the complex biochemical mechanism of nitric oxide production.
The good news is, nitric oxide acts as an antioxidant too. So, the raised levels cause a reduction in oxidative stress and increase exercise tolerance. Beyond that, infrared therapy can also help patients suffering from diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease.
With increased blood flow, nutrients are more effectively carried to the injured cells. This promotes healing and tissue repair. It also helps in reducing inflammation of the damaged cells. That makes infrared mats an effective and safe treatment for conditions like fibromyalgia.
Interestingly, soccer players have worn clothes emitting far infrared radiation to reduce muscle pain after a grueling match. Infrared belts used as waist wraps have also proved to be effective in reducing chronic back pain.
It’s also suggested that the process of PBM increases mitochondrial activity in cells, This results in increased levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Since muscles rely on ATP for energy, it results in a higher rate of muscle recovery and increased muscle workload.
Overall, infrared heat pads are one of the safest treatments for pain relief and boosting the cellular healing process.
Drawbacks of Infrared Heating Pads
- The therapy may not be suitable for pregnant women
- Can have adverse effects on patients sensitive to sunlight or other diseases
- Should not be used on open wounds
Infrared saunas may cause thermal injuries or hyperthermia in some individuals and pregnant women. With heating pads, such risks are minimized.
Even so, using an infrared heating pad is not the best idea if you have medical conditions like coronary artery disease. Also, some conditions like malignant hyperthermia and scleroderma can deteriorate with sunlight exposure. It’s best to avoid the use of infrared therapy in such conditions.
Since the heat results in increased blood flow, using an infrared pad on open wounds may lead to bleeding. Thermal injury from excessive IR radiation can also cause premature skin aging. Those with any form of skin implant should make sure that the generated heat doesn’t affect the implant in any manner.
Many users choose an infrared sauna session to increase sweating which leads to more detoxification. But an infrared pad is designed for localized heating and will not induce excess sweating like a sauna. In other words, the pad will not generate the satisfying experience of a session in one of the best infrared saunas.
Infrared Heating Pad vs A Regular Heating Pad
While a regular heating pad helps with surface-level pain, infrared heating pads can reach deeper. Infrared heating pads are also more adjustable when it comes to the heating temperature range. This makes them more effective for relieving muscle and joint pain.
Another plus of infrared therapy is its ability to generate long-lasting relief through deeper penetration. A 30-minute use of the pad can provide pain relief that can last for hours. With a regular heating pad, the pain might be back as soon as the heat is turned off.
Precautions Before Using Infrared Heating Pads
It’s best to consult a medical practitioner before using infrared heating pads; especially if you have any chronic illness. While heat has therapeutic effects, it is for a doctor to decide if infrared heat can be used in some medical conditions.
As per CDC recommendations, EMF levels below 3 mG are safe for prolonged exposure. Make sure that the heating pads are tested to deliver below that level. Also, not all heating pads are FDA-approved. It’s best to choose a product that is approved for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should you lay on an infrared heating pad?
The time limit suggested by most brands for a single session is around 30-45 minutes. To ensure safety, start by using the pad for 20 minutes to determine your body’s tolerance levels to heat.
Who should not use an infrared heating pad?
Patients with cardiovascular ailments, pregnant women, and sick individuals should consult a medical practitioner before using infrared heating pads.
Do infrared heating pads reduce inflammation?
Research suggests that infrared heating pads can reduce inflammation and associated pain.
Final Thoughts
Research with infrared waves has shown them as a promising option for treating a wide range of health conditions. But strictly speaking, more research is needed to use them for treating serious ailments.
So, are infrared heating pads worth it?
Yes, they are. These pads are a safe and effective way for long-lasting pain relief and also help you to relax. Moreover, they are ideal for homes and super easy to use.
If you are seeking quick relief from sports injuries, arthritis pain, and even regular aches and muscle cramps, investing in a good quality infrared heating pad is a wise decision. Just make sure not to compromise the overall quality of the product.
