Infrared Therapy
Penetrating warmth, no contact
Delivered with the Infrared heat lamp
Infrared therapy uses a specialized heat lamp positioned above the treatment area. The infrared light delivers warmth into the tissue without anything touching the skin. Research suggests infrared may help reduce musculoskeletal pain, though the evidence is limited and study quality varies.
The goal is similar to heat pack therapy: to relax tight muscles and ease stiffness before treatment. Infrared reaches the tissue through light rather than direct contact, which makes it a comfortable option for areas that are too tender or sensitive for a pack resting on them.
What it can help with
- Muscle tightness in sensitive areas
- Stiffness before adjustment
- Areas too tender for direct contact
- Circulation in the treated area
- General muscle relaxation
What a session is like
The lamp arm is positioned over the treatment area at a safe distance while you rest on the table. You feel a steady, comfortable warmth for the length of the session, typically 10 to 15 minutes, with nothing touching your skin.
Who it may not be right for
- Areas with poor circulation or reduced skin sensation
- Recently irradiated, fragile, or broken skin
- An acute injury with active swelling
When to seek emergency care
Infrared therapy treats comfort and mobility and is not a substitute for emergency care. Seek immediate medical attention for numbness, weakness, loss of movement, or any change in bladder or bowel control.
Medically reviewed
Reviewed by Dr. Milad Mandavi, D.C., California Chiropractic License #37275. Last reviewed July 11, 2026.
This information is for general education and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Talk with a qualified provider about your specific condition.
Common questions
Does anything touch my skin?
No. The lamp is positioned above the area at a controlled distance. The warmth comes entirely from the infrared light, which makes this a good option when the injured area is too tender for direct contact.
Is infrared light safe?
Yes. Clinical infrared lamps deliver warming light at controlled distance and duration, supervised by staff. It is a routine, widely used therapy in chiropractic and physical rehabilitation.
How is this different from heat packs?
Both deliver deep warmth to the muscle. Heat packs rest on the body and use moist heat, while infrared reaches the tissue through light with no contact. The right choice depends on the area being treated and your comfort.
The information on this website is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual treatment recommendations are based on a comprehensive examination and clinical findings.