Infrared Radiation in the Management of Musculoskeletal Conditions and Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Infrared radiation (IR) is a promising complementary treatment for musculoskeletal conditions and chronic pain. By means of a systematic review, we evaluated the contribution of IR to the management of these ailments. PubMed-MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library–Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were systematically searched until 20 December 2021. The literature search yielded 233 relevant records. Following the screening of titles and abstracts, 42 full-texts were evaluated. As per inclusion/exclusion criteria, 13 publications were entered into the qualitative assessment. These studies described the effects of IR in humans: three studies focused on osteoarthritis, four studies on fibromyalgia, and six encompassed a wider range of diseases (ankylosing spondylitis, recovery from sports injuries, myofascial pain syndrome). Based on the findings of our systematic review, we noted a decrease in pain levels, as evaluated by the visual analog scale (VAS), in patients suffering from musculoskeletal disorders treated with IR. In addition, IR use led to a decrease in Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FiQ) scores in subjects diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Nevertheless, IR has failed to facilitate muscle recovery following athletic injuries.

Improving functional outcomes and quality of life in an elderly woman with sarcopenia and spinal Tuberculosis: A case report

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“…According to Tsagkaris et al (2022), infrared works at a molecular level through "tissues, body fluids, and the molecules that circulate in them" (335) [11]. Thus the effect of this therapy depends on the tissue's composition as well as the molecules found within the body fluids (ibid).…”

“…Thus the effect of this therapy depends on the tissue's composition as well as the molecules found within the body fluids (ibid). When the cells are subjected to heat, IR interacts with molecules to alter cell membranes through increasing intracellular Ca 2+ levels [11]. Consequently, this permeability and alteration promotes growth, thus promoting cellular repair in acid burns.…”

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