A Parallel-Arm Randomized Controlled Trial to Assess the Effects of a Far-Infrared-Emitting Collar on Neck Disorder

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to assess the beneficial effects of a far-infrared-emitting collar (FIRC) on the management of neck disorders. A neck disorder is generalized as neck muscle pain and its relative mental disorders because the etiologies of the neck’s multidimensional syndrome are either muscle impairment or psychiatric distress. This is the first study to determine the efficacy of a FIRC by evaluating objective physical evidence and psychometric self-reports using a parallel-arm randomized sham-controlled and single-blinded design. In this trial, 60 participants with neck disorders were observed at baseline and post-intervention. Compared to the placebo group after a 30-min intervention, the FIRC demonstrated a statistically significant biological effect in elevating skin temperature and promoting blood circulation with p-values 0.003 and 0.020, respectively. In addition, FIRC application significantly reduced neck muscle tension, relieved pain, ameliorated fatigue, improved depression, and decreased anxiety. The FIRC could therefore be a potential treatment for neck disorders.

Properties and Applications of High Emissivity Composite Films Based on Far-Infrared Ceramic Powder

“…The peaks of the infrared vibration bonds at 1649.4, 1000.9, and 556.9 cm −1 can be determined as C–O, Si–O, and Al–O, respectively. These bonds are identical to those in the spectrum of tourmaline (recognized as a natural mineral with strong infrared emission properties) in the 6–15 μm wavelength range [29,30,31,32]. In combination, these results indicate that ceramic powder is far-infrared active.…”

Evaluating the Far-Infrared Radiation Bioeffects on Micro Vascular Dysfunction, Nervous System, and Plantar Pressure in Diabetes Mellitus

“…Farinfrared rays can induce both thermal and nonthermal effects at the molecular level to influence the health of a whole living organism. [16][17][18] Therefore, this study evaluated the effects of far-infrared energy on blood circulation and soft tissue properties, including warming capability, blood flow, and heart rate variability (HRV) in diabetic patients using carbon fiber materials with far-infrared release.…”