The Role of Infrared Therapy in Physical Therapy Clinics

Infrared therapy has become a commonly used modality in physical therapy environments, especially for individuals experiencing chronic pain, musculoskeletal injuries, or delayed tissue healing. Many clinicians include infrared physical therapy as part of a broader treatment plan because it delivers gentle heat below the surface of the skin, supporting circulation, comfort, and mobility in a way traditional heat packs may not.¹

Infrared wavelengths near, mid, or far transfer therapeutic heat deep into muscle and connective tissues. When applied in a controlled setting, this can help increase blood flow, decrease muscle tightness, and support cellular repair. This depth of penetration makes it especially useful for stiff joints, post-exercise soreness, or recovery from soft-tissue strain.²

In many physical therapy clinics, infrared therapy is paired with movement-based rehabilitation approaches such as exercise therapy, neuromuscular re-education, or manual techniques. When used before stretching or strengthening exercises, infrared heat may help tissues feel more mobile and reduce pain-related guarding.¹

One of the most documented reasons infrared therapy is used in clinical practice is pain reduction. Studies suggest that regular infrared exposure can help decrease discomfort associated with conditions like chronic low back pain, osteoarthritis, and general musculoskeletal stiffness.²

Beyond pain relief, infrared may also support:

• Improved joint range of motion
• Faster post-activity recovery
• Enhanced comfort during movement
• Muscle relaxation and reduced stiffness

Many patients report feeling looser or more mobile following sessions, especially when the treatment is part of a repeated routine over several weeks.¹

In athletic or highly active populations, infrared therapy may help reduce temporary performance decline following intense exercise and support faster perceived recovery. Results vary, but ongoing research continues to explore its role in strength preservation and return-to-activity timelines.²

This has contributed to a growing interest in integrating infrared therapy both in-clinic and through at-home follow-through strategies.

Infrared therapy is considered low risk when applied properly. However, clinicians typically adjust treatment settings based on patient type, especially when working with individuals experiencing reduced sensation, circulatory challenges, or highly reactive skin.²

Treatment plans often begin with short, supervised sessions before progressing to longer exposures if needed. Most benefits occur when infrared therapy is part of a consistent schedule rather than a single isolated session.

As rehabilitation models evolve, many individuals now blend in-clinic treatment with a home wellness routine. This continuity may include infrared wraps, localised light therapy, or full-body systems designed to complement physiotherapy goals, not replace them. Products such as the HEALiX Sauna Blanket represent examples of how infrared exposure is being adapted into long-term lifestyle recovery, especially for individuals managing chronic aches or recurring stiffness.

Infrared therapy plays a meaningful role in modern physical therapy settings by supporting comfort, recovery, and functional improvement. While not a standalone solution, it can help enhance outcomes when combined with movement, strengthening, and personalised rehabilitation strategies. With growing access to both clinical and home infrared technology, its relevance in long-term wellness and rehab support continues to expand.

1. Dębiec-Bąk A. et al. Effects and Use of Infrared Therapy in Physical Rehabilitation. European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education. https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe12030024

2. Korać A. et al. Infrared Therapy Mechanisms and Pain Relief Outcomes. Biomedicines. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines10123204

3. Georgiev G. Clinical Use of Infrared Therapy for Musculoskeletal Pain. Bulgarian Nursing Review. https://doi.org/10.37363/bnr.2023.43260

4. Uzun M. Infrared Therapy as a Pain Management Tool. International Journal of Developmental and Social Health Sciences. https://doi.org/10.33438/ijdshs.1423402

5. Wallace J. Infrared and Athletic Recovery. Journal of Athletic Training. https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-49.3.82

6. Karlsson J. Infrared and Functional Mobility. Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine. https://doi.org/10.2340/jrm.v57.42169

7. Shimokawa T. Performance Effects of Infrared After Exercise. Institute for Laser Medicine Journal. https://doi.org/10.5978/islsm.14.29

8. Keskin F. Infrared Safety Considerations in Patient Use. Balkan Journal of Health Advances. https://doi.org/10.2478/bjha-2014-0026