Seniors are more likely to suffer from diseases such as chronic fatigue, arthritis, falls and injuries, chronic pains in the back and joints, elevated blood pressure, sleep disorders and many other conditions. Lifestyle habit and diet changes are often part of the overall treatment of these conditions. But there is also much to be said for time-tested techniques such as heat therapy and its latest version, Far Infrared Therapy, to FIR Therapy, which can provide natural pain relief.

Far infrared light is the frequency of invisible light that is generated naturally by the sun. FIR Therapy is a type of low energy therapy that takes advantage of the heat generated by waves of energy from the far end of the infrared spectrum. This safe and natural alternative therapy can be used in the treatment of a variety of health problems such as arthritis, muscle pain and spasms and shoulder or joint stiffness.

FIR therapy also benefits the body by:

• Helping the body remove toxins through perspiration
• Reducing tension and stress
• Improving lymphatic flow
• Boosting the immune system
• Increasing the circulation of blood deep in the tissues

Far infrared waves can penetrate up to three inches deep to generate warmth that can provide immense relief to muscles and internal organs. The gentle heat produced in far infrared heat therapy exerts an analgesic effect and can help reduce or eliminate chronic pains that seniors often experience in various parts of the body. Stiffness in the joints from arthritis can be significantly relieved. Studies show that far infrared heat makes connective tissue more flexible, permits greater joint movement and brings about increased levels of endorphins, which ease pain.

Far infrared therapy also causes blood vessels to expand. This expansion leads to improved circulation and allows the immune system cells and chemicals to converge on the injured areas to facilitate the healing process. Despite the heat induced, FIR therapy does not cause any significant rise in core body temperature or in blood pressure, which makes it safer for seniors with cardiovascular problems.

There are several types of far infrared therapy devices on the market today that provide both direct and indirect heat therapy. FIR saunas can be used to deliver whole body or indirect therapy while far infrared heating pads, clothing and bedding supplies may be used for localized applications.

Each of these types of FIR therapy uses different means to produce far infrared heat. Far infrared saunas use carbon/ceramic heaters to generate indirect heat in the form of low energy far infrared waves. Heating pads utilize individual natural jade stones, and far infrared clothing and far infrared bedding such as undergarments, therapy gloves, joint braces, socks, sheets and pillows use specially designed infrared emitting fabrics to produce the infrared heat. All of these different types of therapy generate radiant heat that penetrates deep into the body to provide natural pain relief and other health benefits.