Key Takeaway
Infrared radiation shows promise for reducing musculoskeletal pain and improving function across multiple conditions including low back pain, knee osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia.
Summary
This systematic review examined the evidence for infrared radiation therapy in managing musculoskeletal conditions and chronic pain.
Key findings:
- Infrared therapy demonstrated significant pain reduction across multiple musculoskeletal conditions including chronic low back pain, knee osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia
- Far-infrared radiation was effective for both acute and chronic pain management
- Treatment improved functional outcomes and quality of life in several patient populations
- The therapy showed a favorable safety profile with minimal adverse effects
Conditions reviewed:
- Chronic low back pain
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Temporomandibular disorders
- Ankylosing spondylitis
Clinical significance:
Provides a consolidated evidence base supporting infrared radiation as a non-pharmacological adjunct for chronic pain management, though the authors note that more high-quality RCTs are needed to establish optimal protocols and treatment parameters.
Figures
Figure 1