Integrated Pain Management Protocol

Infrared Sauna and Float Therapy 1 week Programme

Lets get you back to YOU!

Objective:

Reduce chronic pain, inflammation, and stress by leveraging the synergistic effects of float therapy and infrared sauna.

Target conditions include fibromyalgia, arthritis, lower back pain, and neuropathic pain.

1. Float Therapy (Sensory Deprivation in Epsom Salt Water)

Protocol:

Frequency: 1–2 sessions per week

Duration: 60–90 minutes per session

Environment: Water at skin temperature (94–95°F), high Epsom salt concentration (~500–800 lbs), complete darkness and silence

Mechanisms:

1. Reduced sensory input → decreased stress response:

Sensory deprivation reduces activity in the somatosensory and default mode networks, lowering pain perception and stress-related cortisol levels.

Ref: Feinstein et al., 2018 (PLOS ONE) – fMRI showed significant reductions in activity of brain regions associated with pain and anxiety during float sessions.

2. Endorphin and dopamine release:

Floatation increases natural opioids and dopamine, enhancing mood and dampening pain.

Ref: Kjellgren et al., 2001 (Pain Research & Management) – observed increased wellbeing and reduced pain after float sessions in fibromyalgia patients.

Observed Outcomes:

Reduced fibromyalgia symptoms by up to 30%

Lower cortisol, anxiety, and pain scores

Increased feelings of relaxation and body awareness

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2. Infrared Sauna Therapy

Protocol:

Frequency: 3–4 times per week

Duration: 20–30 minutes per session

Temperature: 120–140°F (50–60°C), far-infrared preferred

Mechanisms:

1. Vasodilation and improved circulation:

Infrared heat penetrates ~1.5 inches into tissue, increasing local blood flow, oxygenation, and nutrient delivery while removing inflammatory metabolites.

Ref: Beever, 2010 (Canadian Family Physician) – showed cardiovascular and neuromuscular benefits of infrared therapy in chronic conditions.

2. Anti-inflammatory effects:

Reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6, CRP, and TNF-α.

Ref: Imamura et al., 2001 (J Cardiol) – repeated sauna use decreased inflammatory markers and improved pain in patients with chronic fatigue and pain syndromes.

3. Heat-induced HSPs (heat shock proteins):

Stimulates cellular repair and regeneration pathways via HSP expression.

Ref: Hargreaves et al., 2004 (Journal of Applied Physiology) – HSPs reduce oxidative damage and enhance recovery in skeletal muscles.

4. Endorphin release and parasympathetic activation:

Heat stress triggers opioid-like peptides and enhances autonomic balance.

Ref: Crinnion, 2011 (Altern Med Rev) – sauna promotes parasympathetic activity, important for pain resilience and healing.

Observed Outcomes:

50%+ reduction in musculoskeletal pain in clinical trials.

Improved sleep, mood, and autonomic regulation.

Safer than traditional saunas for many patients due to lower ambient temperature

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Suggested Weekly Schedule: Synergistic Use

Day Activity

Tue Float Therapy (60 min)

Wed Infrared Sauna (30 min)

Thu Rest or Light Activity

Fri Float Therapy (60 min)

Sat Infrared Sauna (30 min)

Sun Optional Float or Sauna (45 min) based on response

Note: Avoid sauna immediately before float sessions to prevent energy being drained.

Stay hydrated and consume electrolytes (we have available in reception) post-sauna.

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Who This Protocol May Benefit:

Chronic pain sufferers (fibromyalgia, arthritis, neuropathy)

Athletes with delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)

Individuals with high stress, anxiety, or depression comorbid with pain

People sensitive to medication or looking for non-pharmaceutical pain strategies

Precautions:

Float Therapy: Not recommended for epilepsy (without supervision), contagious illnesses or open wounds.

Infrared Sauna: Monitor for hypotension, dehydration, and heat sensitivity. Adjust time/temp as needed for cardiovascular conditions.

Pricing for the 5 Day programme is rrp £240*

We are looking for 4 people that currently suffer with chronic pain to test this programme, you must be able to commit to the 5 sessions over the week and will need to complete a survey at the end of it. In return the price for this offer will be £130.

*ts and cs will apply reply to this email for more details.