Do Infrared Saunas Ease Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms?

Can Infrared Saunas Ease Psoriasis Discomfort?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that speeds up skin cell growth, causing flaky, thick, inflamed patches. Up to 30% of psoriasis patients also develop psoriatic arthritis - which triggers painful joint swelling.

While modern treatments can help control flare-ups, many with psoriasis still battle challenging symptoms impacting quality of life. Finding safe complementary options providing relief becomes key for better daily management.

Some alternative practitioners believe using infrared saunas a few times per week may aid psoriasis in several ways. Heres a closer look at the evidence and best practices.

How Infrared Saunas Work

Infrared saunas utilize targeted light waves just below red on the color spectrum that are invisible to human eyes but felt as heat. Users sweat out toxins as body temp rises, much like traditional saunas.

But unlike traditional saunas heating the air to extreme temperatures, infrared penetrates beneath skin lightly elevating core body heat. This allows for comfortable 30-60 minute sessions versus brief 5-15 minutes in normal saunas due to high ambient air heat being difficult to tolerate longer.

Possible Psoriasis Benefits

Research on infrared sauna use for skin conditions shows posssble improvements due to the following mechanisms it triggers:

• Dilation of blood vessels enhancing circulation to transport healing nutrients/oxygen to skin areas
• Anti-inflammatory effects helping reduce raised, inflamed lesions and joint swelling over time
• Induction of sweating assisting detox which may favorably influence autoimmunity underlying psoriasis

Anecdotal evidence from those with psoriatic arthritis also indicates infrared therapy brings short term relief of painful stiffness and improves range of motion lasting for several hours up to a few days after.

Using Infrared Saunas Safely and Comfortably

Infrared therapy remains generally considered safe with minimal side effects when used appropriately. But correct protocols based on your unique health profile should be followed.

Check with Your Doctor First

Talk to your physician before trying infrared saunas if you have any underlying cardiovascular risks, take medications causing heat sensitivity, have acute infections or open wounds, or are pregnant. Some health factors may warrant extra caution with raised core temperatures.

Hydrate Well & Rest Afterward

Dehydration risks exist with any sauna use. Drink plenty of electrolyte-containing fluids before and after. Allow time to fully cool down and rehydrate before resuming normal activities due to lightheadedness risks.

Start Low and Slow

New users often need several sessions to acclimate to infrared comfortably. Begin with only 10-15 minutes maximum on lowest therapeutic settings during initial visits before slowly increasing duration and intensity as tolerated.

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to any discomfort developing and exit the sauna immediately if feeling unwell - don't ignore warning signs of problems. Keep hydrating products and cool towels handy inside to manage overheating symptoms if they manifest.

Maximizing Potential Psoriasis Relief

Combining sauna use with other lifestyle measures may provide optimal natural symptom relief between medical flare ups of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Improve Gut Health Through Diet

Emerging research shows poor gut microbiome balance worsens some autoimmune conditions. An anti-inflammatory diet high in prebiotics/probiotics aids digestion and could favorably influence skin and joints.

Stay Active with Low-Impact Exercise

While overdoing activity exacerbates psoriatic joint pain and skin friction irritation, gentle routines like walking, stretching or swimming keep joints mobile and strengthen supportive muscles around inflamed areas.

Establish Effective Stress Relief Practices

Mental strain provokes disease flares for those prone to psoriasis. Relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, massage and mindfulness soothe nervous system overload tied to recurring symptoms.

Using infrared saunas as part of holistic self-care integrating diet, movement and stress relief provides the best chance for soothing psoriasis discomfort between medical flare ups when they periodically occur.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.