By booking into an Infrared Sauna session at Alive Pilates Studio, I accept full resposibility for my wellbeing, understand the contraindications, have considered the following safety precautions and participate at my own risk:
Saunas & Medications
Individuals using prescription drugs should seek the advice of their physician or a pharmacist for possible changes in the effects when the body is exposed to far infrared waves or elevated body temperature. Diuretics, barbiturates and beta-blockers may impair the body's natural heat loss mechanisms. Some over-the-counter drugs such as antihistamines may also cause the body to be more prone to heat stroke.
Saunas and children
The core body temperature of children rises much faster than that of adults. This occurs due to a higher metabolic rate per unit of body mass, limited circulatory adaptation to increased cardiac demands and the inability to regulate body temperature by sweating. Consult with your child's paediatrician before allowing them to use the sauna.
Saunas and the elderly
The ability to maintain core body temperature decreases with age. This is primarily due to circulatory conditions and decreased sweat gland function. The body must be able to activate its natural cooling processes in order to maintain core body temperature.
Saunas and cardiovascular conditions
Individuals with cardiovascular conditions or problems (hypertension/hypotension), congestive heart failure, impaired coronary circulation or those who are taking medication which might affect blood pressure, should exercise extreme caution when exposed to prolonged heat.Heat stress increases cardiac output and blood flow in an effort to transfer internal body heat to the outside environment via the skin (perspiration) and respiratory system. This takes place primarily due to major changes in heart rate, which has the potential to increase by 30 beats per minute for each degree increase in core body temperature.
Saunas and alcohol
Contrary to popular belief, it is not advisable to "sweat out" a hangover. Alcohol intoxication decreases a person's judgement; therefore they may not realise it when the body has a negative reaction to high heat. Alcohol also increases the heart rate, which may be further increased by heart stress.
Saunas and chronic conditions/diseases
Chronic conditions and diseases associated with a reduced ability to sweat or perspire include Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis, Central Nervous System Tumours, Diabetes and Neuropathy.
Saunas and haemophiliacs
The use of infrared saunas should be avoided by individuals predisposed to bleeding, such as haemophiliacs.predisposed to bleeding, such as haemophiliacs. The use of infrared saunas so ad beemoided by indivicuals.
Saunas and fever
An individual experiencing a fever should not use any type of sauna.
Saunas and insensitivity to heat
An individual that has insensitivity to heat should not use any type of sauna.
Saunas and pregnancy
Pregnant women should consult a physician before using any type of sauna as fetal damage can occur with elevated body temperature.
Saunas and menstruation
Heating of the lower back during the menstrual period may temporarily increase menstrual flow. Some women endure this process to gain the pain relief commonly associated with their cycle, whereas others may choose to avoid sauna use during that time.
Saunas and joint injury
If you have a recent (acute) joint injury, it should not be heated for the first 48 hours after the injury, or until the hot and swollen symptoms subside. If you have joints that are chronically hot and swollen, they may respond poorly to vigorous heating of any kind.
Saunas and implants
Metal pins, rods, artificial joints or any other surgical implants generally reflect far infrared waves and thus are not heated by this system. Nevertheless, you should consult your surgeon prior to using an infrared sauna. Certainly, the usage of an infrared sauna must be discontinued if you experience pain near any such implants. Silicone does absorb far infrared energy. Implanted silicone or silicone prostheses for nose or ear replacement may be warmed by the far infrared waves. Since silicone melts at over 200°C, it should not be adversely affected by sauna use. It is still advised that you consult your surgeon and/or representative from the implant manufacturer to be certain.
In the rare event you experience pain and/or discomfort, immediately discontinue sauna use.
Disclaimer: Hot Stuff Saunas Pty Ltd and its affiliates (Alive Pilates Studio) do not provide medical advice, education or treatment. The information contained in this manual is for general information purposes only and does not address individual circumstances or medical conditions. It may not be right for you and should not be relied solely upon in making decisions about your health. Always consult your doctor for medical advice.