Infrared sauna in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. A pilot study showing good tolerance, short-term improvement of pain and stiffness, and a trend towards long-term beneficial effects.
March 11, 2025
In a study conducted by Fredrikus G. J. Oosterveld and colleagues, the effects of infrared (IR) sauna therapy were investigated in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). The study involved 34 participants, with 17 patients from each group, who underwent a series of eight IR treatments over a 4-week period. The researchers found that infrared sauna sessions were well tolerated, with no reported adverse effects or exacerbation of disease. Statistically significant improvements were observed in pain and stiffness in both RA and AS patients during the treatments. Additionally, patients reported reductions in fatigue, with clinical improvements noted during the treatment period. However, the study found no significant changes in overall disease activity scores, suggesting that IR therapy did not exacerbate the underlying conditions.
The results of this study suggest that infrared sauna therapy can offer short-term benefits for individuals suffering from arthritis, specifically in reducing pain, stiffness, and fatigue, without causing harm or worsening the condition. These findings support the use of infrared saunas as a complementary therapy for arthritis patients, as the heat from the saunas helps alleviate discomfort and improve joint mobility. The study highlights that infrared therapy is a safe and well-tolerated treatment option, making it an appealing alternative for managing arthritis symptoms. The research conducted by Oosterveld and his team provides a strong foundation for further investigation into the long-term effects of infrared sauna therapy for arthritis patients.
