Lec 22 Radiación Infrarroja (umh1723 2014-15)

Understanding Infrared Therapy

Introduction to Infrared Therapy

• The discussion begins with an overview of infrared therapy, including its concept, definition, and types of devices used for artificial application.

• It is emphasized that infrared therapy is a superficial technique with limited depth of penetration (approximately 3 cm), particularly in individuals with low body fat.

Mechanisms and Limitations

• The speaker notes that while prolonged exposure can lead to deeper heating through conduction, there is a risk of burns if not monitored properly.

• Different types of infrared radiation are discussed: near-infrared and far-infrared, highlighting their varying wavelengths and applications in physiotherapy.

Types of Devices Used

• Only specific devices are suitable for therapeutic use based on the type of infrared radiation they emit; these can be categorized as low-temperature (non-luminous) or high-temperature (luminous).

• A typical device emits both infrared radiation and some visible light; however, this does not negatively impact patient safety.

Application Techniques

• Key factors in therapy include the distance from the source to the skin and duration of application. The intensity remains constant as determined by the manufacturer.

• Recommended distances for effective treatment range between 50 to 100 centimeters, with 75 centimeters being frequently cited in literature.

Safety Considerations

• Monitoring skin reactions such as erythema (skin reddening) is crucial during treatment. Precautions should be taken when positioning the device vertically to avoid accidents.

• The importance of maintaining appropriate distance during treatment is reiterated due to its effect on heat absorption by the skin.

Dosage Parameters

• Discussion includes dosage levels: subliminal doses are ineffective for heating purposes; thus, therapeutic doses must be carefully calibrated.

Understanding Dosage and Effects in Infrared Therapy

Dosage Recommendations

• The speaker emphasizes that personal experience suggests avoiding the use of dosage four, as it may lead to undesirable sensations.

• Dosage one is described as light and tolerable, while dosage two is moderate and pleasant. Dosage three is intense but can verge on uncomfortable.

• General timeframes for achieving specific effects are discussed, noting that current practices may differ from older manuals due to advancements in high-frequency technology.

Mechanisms of Action

• Higher temperatures can activate organic systems at a superficial level, which helps assess the body's defense mechanisms and provoke changes.

• Increased duration and higher dosages lead to more intense effects; however, this does not necessarily equate to deeper therapeutic benefits.

Temperature Considerations

• Exceeding certain thermal levels can cause collagen to retract rather than expand, indicating a need for careful temperature management during therapy.

Application Techniques

• The speaker discusses using infrared therapy alongside massage techniques but expresses concerns about discomfort when combining both modalities simultaneously.

• A practical approach involves heating the area before massage to alleviate pain sensitivity effectively.

Patient Sensitivity and Reactions

• Caution is advised with patients who have altered sensitivity or circulation issues since these factors affect their defensive reactions during treatment.

Physiological Effects of Heating

• Localized temperature increases trigger physiological responses such as hyperemia (increased blood flow), enhancing oxygenation and skin erythema (redness).

• The difference between immediate erythema from infrared radiation versus delayed erythema from ultraviolet radiation is highlighted, emphasizing its importance in determining appropriate dosages.

Erythema Assessment

• Immediate erythema indicates effective application of infrared therapy without latency periods, allowing for real-time assessment of treatment efficacy.

Understanding the Effects of Heat on Inflammation

Temperature and Pain Management

• High temperatures (42 degrees Celsius) can exacerbate pain, marking a critical threshold where traditional concepts may not apply. This temperature is linked to various physiological factors such as collagen, blood flow, cellular function, and contraction capacity.

• The speaker expresses skepticism about heat having an anti-inflammatory effect. Instead, they argue that while increased temperature may enhance nutrient delivery and defensive elements in the body, it primarily induces inflammation rather than alleviating it.

Reactions to Heat

• Heat-induced reactions lead to vasodilation and improved defense element supply. These effects can be interpreted as anti-inflammatory but are more complex due to their inflammatory nature.