Exploring Heat Therapy: Hot Tubs, Traditional Saunas, and Infrared Saunas Compared - Key Takeaways

Key Takeaways

Hot water immersion raises core body temperature more effectively than traditional and infrared saunas.
The study measured various physiological responses including heart rate, sweat loss, and cytokine levels.
Hot tubs showed the greatest cardiovascular strain and immune response compared to saunas.
Infrared saunas did not significantly raise core body temperature or show notable immune effects in this study.
Temperature accuracy in saunas is crucial; many commercially available units may not reach the set temperatures.
Further research is needed to explore the effects of heat therapy in different populations and conditions.

Hot water immersion led to the highest increase in core body temperature.
Traditional sauna was more effective than infrared sauna but less than hot water immersion.
No significant differences in cytokine levels across sauna types.

Hot water immersion is the most effective modality for raising core body temperature.
Commercial sauna temperatures may not be accurate; independent verification is recommended.
Further studies are needed to understand the effects on various populations.

"A single session of hot water immersion leads to the greatest physiological strain compared with both traditional and far infrared saunas."

"It's important to independently assess the temperature where you are sitting in that box."

"Further research should explore how various patient populations respond to different forms of passive heating."