INFRARED LAMP

Heat is widely employed in the physiotherapy department for treating pain, muscle spasm, stiffness and inflammation. The source of heat employed depends upon the depth of penetration required. Infrared radiation may be used where penetration is not required beyond 10 mm and employs wavelengths between 770 and 12000 nm. The lamps are placed above the patient or affected area and kept on for the prescribed treatment period.

The lamp used may emit visible light or not. Those not emitting visible light are often called radiant heat sources, and employ wound or enclosed elements similar to those used in domestic electric heaters. Those producing visible light are usually tungsten filament lamps with a filter to reduce visible and ultraviolet radiation. They may be arranged singly or in arrays as in the tunnel bath.

Infrared lamps and radiant heat sources are also used in the care of small babies where they do not need an enclosed warm environment or are removed from an incubator for examination and treatment. In this case the heat lamps are arranged over the cot in which the baby lies.

Content and Design Copyright 2000 Dr. Malcolm C Brown.  See Title Page for more details