Value of Infra-red Irradiations
The hyperemia induced by any conveetive means, such as infra-red rays, is analgesic—pain-reducing. It is also relax¬ing, the spasms and tensions resulting from the pain and con¬gestion of a diseased part being reduced. It is decongestive, to a beneficial extent, through its effect upon the skin vessels, which secure some of their blood from congested organs or tissues within. These may be called the local effects of treat¬ment by such heat. It also has general effects, such as a seda-
live and soothing action; a restorative and eliminative action through the markedly increased blood supply to the part treated, which hastens repair; and a derivative action, through calling blood from congested regions or by bringing it to anemic regions.