A study conducted by Akinori Masuda, Takashi Kihara, Tsuyoshi Fukudome, Takuro Shinsato, Shinichi Minagoe, and Chuwa Tei explored the use of repeated thermal therapy using far-infrared ray dry saunas as a treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Two patients who had not responded well to conventional treatments, including prednisolone, were subjected to a 35-session regimen of thermal therapy. The therapy involved exposure to a far-infrared sauna at 60°C, followed by post-sauna warming. After 15 to 25 sessions, both patients experienced significant improvements in symptoms such as fatigue, pain, sleep disturbances, and low-grade fever. Notably, the patients were able to discontinue their use of prednisolone and maintained their symptom improvements over the following year without relapse.
The researchers concluded that repeated thermal therapy, particularly the use of far-infrared saunas, could be a promising alternative treatment for CFS. The therapy not only helped alleviate physical symptoms, but it also contributed to the patients’ social rehabilitation, allowing them to resume normal activities. This study suggests that infrared sauna therapy may play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome, especially for those who have not found relief through conventional medical treatments.
