What Would You Use an Infrared Lamp For?

Research into infrared therapy for back pain is ongoing.

You've seen them at fast food restaurants, but other industries use infrared lamps as well. These sources of heat, which mimic the sun's rays, are a valuable tool for farmers and physical therapists alike.

Livestock

Infrared lamps keep young animals warm and comfortable. Farmers use the 250-watt lamps to keep newborn pigs alive during winter months.

Food

Fast food and other types of restaurants use infrared lamps to keep food warm until it's ready to be served.

Pain

A 2006 study, "Infrared Therapy for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized, Controlled Trial," by the Rothbart Pain Management Clinic and the University of Toronto found infrared heat helped ease the chronic lower back pain of subjects.

Outdoor Heating

For chilly nights on the patio, some homeowners use an outdoor heating lamp with infrared 1500-watt bulbs

Paint

Infrared lamps can quickly dry paint and varnish on cars and other surfaces.

References

• University of Missouri: Proper Infrared Heat Lamp Use for Efficient Livestock Production
• Home Depot: Outdoor Heating
• Restaurant Source: Heat Lamps
• Eastwood: Curing Lamps
• National Library of Medicine: Infrared Therapy for Chronic Low Back Pain

Resources

• NASA: The Electromagnetic Spectrum