Water-filtered Infrared A (wIRA) Irradiation

Book excerpt: Water-filtered infrared A irradiation (wIRA) is a special application of infrared A irradiation. Its preferential induction of thermal, but also nonthermal, effects which have a high tissue penetration and low heat load to the skin surface makes wIRA a promising therapeutic method. Since its introduction in 1989, wIRA has been applied experimentally and clinically to human and animal patients to treat and improve an impressive variety of disease entities. This book summarizes recent developments by presenting a wide range of up-to-date clinical applications and offers an excellent overview on the topic, which will be of relevance to readers from clinical disciplines and basic researchers alike. The book is organized into two main fields: "Principles" and "Clinical Practice". "Clinical Practice" is the most substantial field being divided into parts on application of wIRA in oncology, psychiatry, neonatology, dermatology, rheumatology, and infectiology. "Principles" summarizes the historic development of wIRA, focusing on the physical basics, body's reaction to hyperthermia, thermography, and thermometry, and recommends clear terminology when applying wIRA.