Numerous studies report data on the safety and efficacy of a particular type of noninvasive physical therapy, far infrared (FIR) rays, particularly in individuals with cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease. The exact molecular mechanism by which they act remains unclear. Recently, the increased expression by endothelial cells of nitric oxide-synthase (NOS), resulting in increased production of nitric oxide (NO), a mediator of vasodilation, has emerged, leading to both increased temperature (thermal effect) and structural changes in cell membranes (nonthermal effects), resulting in reduced oxidative stress and increased reparative processes .
In vitro and animal model studies report a reparative effect on wounds and second-degree burns by FIRs, which on the one hand inhibit the expression of inflammasome NLRP3 and IL-1β, two mediators of inflammation, by macrophages, and on the other stimulate collagen regeneration and fibroblast infiltration .
Inserted into the upholstery of an armchair, the FIR-emitting fibers of the Thermotex TTS Platinum Pad were shown to significantly reduce, over 4 weeks, the back pain of sedentary subjects who spent at least 45 minutes a day there on workdays, improving their quality of life .
The use in humans of garments and devices containing bioceramics, such as gloves, socks, knee pads, elbow pads, and bellies, has demonstrated benefits in controlling joint pain from osteoarthritis, Raynaud's phenomenon or neuropathic pain , menstrual disorders , and in reducing weight and cellulite in the lower limbs , in the absence of side effects.
(Medical - Scientific Advice: Prof. G.Lucchesi - Medical Director - First Level - SOD Spinal Unit - Unipolar - ( DAI - Neuromusculoskeletal and Sense Organs ) Hospital - University - Careggi - Florence )