Effectiveness of Infrared Therapy on Pain in Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Narrative Review Based on Recent Literature

Abstract

Introduction: Musculoskeletal disorders are a major global health concern, contributing significantly to chronic pain, physical dysfunction, and reduced quality of life. Infrared (IR) therapy has emerged as a non-invasive intervention with potential benefits in pain relief, inflammation reduction, and tissue healing.
Methods: A narrative review was conducted using two electronic databases: PubMed (11 articles) and Google Scholar (4 articles). Article selection involved screening titles, abstracts, and full texts based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Relevant data were extracted, including study design, sample characteristics, therapeutic approach, and outcomes.
Results: Most reviewed studies reported that IR therapy effectively reduces pain, improves local blood circulation, decreases inflammation, promotes muscle relaxation, and facilitates tissue repair in patients with musculoskeletal disorders. However, heterogeneity in study design, sample size, and limited reporting on dosage protocols were noted.
Conclusion: Infrared therapy is an effective and non-invasive modality for managing musculoskeletal pain and may be an adjunct to conventional treatment. Further high-quality studies are recommended to standardize therapeutic protocols and validate clinical efficacy.

Keywords: Infrared radiation, infrared therapy, musculoskeletal disorders