Heat therapy is an approach to pain relief and recovery that uses heat to treat various health conditions. This form of therapy uses heat sources such as hot water bottles, heating pads and heat packs to treat specific areas of the body. Heat therapy has proven to be an effective method to reduce muscle tension, relieve pain and improve flexibility.
Heat therapy works by improving blood circulation and relaxing the muscles. Applying heat to the affected area causes the blood vessels to dilate, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the tissue. This can help reduce stiffness, relieve painful joints and speed up the healing process. Whether you suffer from muscle pain, joint pain, back pain or other complaints, heat therapy can be a valuable addition to your wellness routine. It is often used to promote relaxation, reduce stress and improve overall circulation. Heat therapy can also be beneficial in treating certain injuries, such as sprains, strains and muscle cramps.
Sauna sessions can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving and mood-enhancing chemicals in the body. Endorphins help reduce muscle soreness and discomfort after exercise, making it easier for the muscles to recover. The heat from saunas can also help improve joint mobility and flexibility, which is beneficial for muscle recovery. Relaxed and flexible joints contribute to better movement patterns during workouts, reducing the risk of injury and supporting overall muscle health.
Saunas can contribute to better sleep by promoting muscle relaxation, reducing stress, improving circulation and helping to regulate body temperature. The calming effects of the sauna and the subsequent drop in body temperature after use can facilitate a more peaceful transition to sleep.
The high temperature and humidity in a wet sauna cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased blood flow to muscles and organs. This improved circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to muscles, aiding their recovery and reducing tension.
The increased circulation means more nutrients are delivered to your skin and more blood flow will leave your skin glowing with a pinker, healthier complexion.
The warmth and calming atmosphere of saunas can promote relaxation and reduce stress. Stress and tension in the body can hinder muscle recovery. By reducing muscle tension and promoting overall relaxation, saunas create a favorable environment for muscles to recover and heal.
The heat and sweating in saunas can help eliminate toxins and waste products from the body, supporting the immune system.
Justin BieberThe sauna gives me peace after a show, that's why I had a sauna installed in my tour bus.
Cristiano Ronaldo, CR7I take a sauna every day
LeBron JamesI spend up to an hour in the sauna after each game to help my body recover and relax.
Tony RobbinsSauna helps me to relax and unwind, it also helps with improving my physical and mental health.
Don't just trust our words...
Dr. Andrew Huberman, a leading neurobiologist and professor of neurobiology at Stanford University, is also known as the host of the Huberman Lab podcast.
In a recent clip he discusses the benefits of heat therapy. Heat therapy involves the use of heat, such as saunas or warm compresses, to address various health concerns, such as reducing muscle tension, improving blood circulation, and promoting relaxation and recovery.
The million dollar question.
We could bombard you with scientific studies and controlled experiments (click the button below if you're interested).
In simpler terms, yes , according to current scientific literature, we strongly believe that the majority of people can experience significant benefits by incorporating heat therapy into their daily routine for improved sleep, recovery, and overall proactive health.
If you are pregnant, saunas and hot baths are not suitable and heating elements should not be applied to the abdomen. Always seek advice before using heat therapies.
We also strongly advise against heat therapy for acute injuries, because heat increases inflammation and delays proper healing.
In addition, people with certain conditions should not use heat therapy due to a higher risk of burns or complications from the application of heat. This concerns the following people:
A steam sauna has high humidity and lower temperatures, while a dry sauna has low humidity and higher temperatures. The steam sauna has many additional benefits, including:
- Skin hydration: Steam saunas are excellent for hydrating the skin. The moisture can open the pores, which helps cleanse the skin and possibly reduce acne.
- Relaxation of joints and muscles: The warm, moist heat can be beneficial for relieving tension in the muscles and joints.
- Deep sweat: The environment with high humidity causes a deeper one
sweat that can help cleanse the skin, possibly improving its appearance.
In general, heat therapy is safe, but it is important not to overdo the heat to avoid burning or other skin irritations. People with certain conditions, such as diabetes, should be cautious with heat therapy and may need to consult a doctor first.
Yes, heat therapy is often combined with other treatments such as physical therapy, massage, or medication for a comprehensive approach. Always consult with a healthcare professional before combining new treatments.