Can Float Therapy Really Offer Relief for Psoriasis?
While more research is needed, float therapy shows promising potential as a complementary treatment for psoriasis symptoms by reducing stress, improving sleep, and potentially impacting inflammation. Preliminary evidence suggests that float therapy can help psoriasis sufferers find much-needed relief.
Understanding Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to scaling, itching, and inflammation. These plaques can appear anywhere on the body, but are most common on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. The condition is often triggered by stress, infections, or certain medications, and while there is no cure, various treatments can manage symptoms.
The Allure of Float Therapy
Float therapy, also known as sensory deprivation or restricted environmental stimulation therapy (REST), involves floating in a shallow pool of highly concentrated Epsom salt water. The water is heated to skin temperature, eliminating the sensation of hot or cold, and the environment is typically dark and quiet. This allows the body to relax deeply and the mind to quiet down.
Potential Benefits for Psoriasis Sufferers
Can float therapy help psoriasis? The answer lies in several potential mechanisms:
- Stress Reduction: Stress is a well-known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. Float therapy promotes deep relaxation, reducing cortisol levels and overall stress, which may decrease the frequency and severity of flare-ups.
- Improved Sleep: Psoriasis can disrupt sleep due to itching and discomfort. The relaxation induced by float therapy can improve sleep quality, leading to better overall health and potentially reduced inflammation.
- Magnesium Absorption: Epsom salts are rich in magnesium, which is absorbed through the skin during float therapy. Magnesium plays a role in reducing inflammation and promoting skin health.
- Pain Relief: Psoriasis can be painful, especially when plaques crack and bleed. Float therapy can reduce muscle tension and joint pain, providing relief from discomfort.
- Reduced Sensory Overload: The controlled environment of a float tank minimizes sensory input, allowing the nervous system to calm down and potentially reducing inflammation.
The Float Therapy Process: What to Expect
- Preparation: Before entering the float tank, you’ll shower to remove oils and lotions. You’ll also be provided with earplugs to prevent water from entering your ears.
- Entering the Tank: You’ll step into the float tank, which typically contains about 10-12 inches of water saturated with Epsom salt.
- Floating: The high salt concentration allows you to float effortlessly on your back.
- Relaxation: The darkness, silence, and buoyancy promote deep relaxation. You can choose to float with the lights on or off, and with or without music.
- Post-Float: After the session, you’ll shower again to rinse off the salt. It’s important to stay hydrated and allow yourself time to adjust back to the outside world.
Precautions and Potential Side Effects
While generally safe, float therapy isn’t for everyone. Individuals with open wounds, contagious skin conditions, or uncontrolled medical conditions should avoid float therapy. Some people may experience mild skin irritation from the Epsom salt, while others may feel claustrophobic in the tank. It’s essential to consult with your doctor before trying float therapy, especially if you have any underlying health concerns.
Comparing Float Therapy to Other Psoriasis Treatments
| Treatment | Description | Potential Benefits | Potential Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Topical Steroids | Creams or ointments applied directly to the skin. | Reduce inflammation and itching quickly. | Can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, and rebound flares. |
| Phototherapy | Exposure to ultraviolet light. | Can clear psoriasis plaques and reduce inflammation. | Requires multiple sessions, can increase risk of skin cancer. |
| Systemic Medications | Oral or injected medications that affect the entire body. | Can be very effective in controlling psoriasis symptoms. | Can have significant side effects, including liver damage, kidney problems, and increased risk of infection. |
| Float Therapy | Floating in Epsom salt water in a controlled environment. | Stress reduction, improved sleep, magnesium absorption, pain relief. | Limited research, potential for skin irritation, not suitable for everyone. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does a typical float therapy session last?
Most float therapy sessions last between 60 and 90 minutes. This allows enough time for the body to fully relax and experience the benefits of sensory deprivation. Some facilities offer shorter or longer sessions, depending on individual needs and preferences.
Is float therapy safe for people with sensitive skin?
While Epsom salt is generally considered safe, it can cause mild skin irritation in some individuals. If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to start with a shorter session and monitor your skin’s reaction. You can also apply a barrier cream, such as petroleum jelly, to sensitive areas before floating.
How often should I float to see results for psoriasis?
The optimal frequency of float therapy for psoriasis varies from person to person. Some people may experience relief after just one session, while others may need several sessions to notice a difference. It’s generally recommended to start with one or two sessions per week and adjust the frequency as needed.
Can float therapy replace traditional psoriasis treatments?
No, float therapy should not be considered a replacement for traditional psoriasis treatments prescribed by a doctor. It’s best used as a complementary therapy to help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being. Always consult with your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan.
What if I’m claustrophobic?
If you’re concerned about claustrophobia, look for float centers that offer open float pools or tanks instead of enclosed pods. You can also request to leave the light on during your session or keep the door slightly ajar. Many people find that the deep relaxation induced by float therapy actually helps to alleviate feelings of anxiety and claustrophobia.
Are there any specific types of psoriasis that float therapy is more effective for?
There is limited research on the effectiveness of float therapy for specific types of psoriasis. However, because stress is a common trigger for all types of psoriasis, the stress-reducing benefits of float therapy may be helpful for managing symptoms regardless of the specific type.
What are the long-term effects of float therapy on psoriasis?
More research is needed to determine the long-term effects of float therapy on psoriasis. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that regular float therapy sessions can help to reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups over time.
What if I can’t swim?
You don’t need to know how to swim to enjoy float therapy. The high salt concentration makes it impossible to sink, so you’ll float effortlessly on the surface of the water.
Are there any specific oils or lotions I should avoid before float therapy?
It’s best to avoid using any oils, lotions, or other skin products before float therapy, as they can interfere with the buoyancy and cleanliness of the water. Showering before entering the tank will help to remove any residues.
How does the Epsom salt water affect my hair?
The Epsom salt water can make your hair feel slightly dry or brittle after floating. To minimize this effect, you can apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair after showering. Some float centers also provide shower caps to protect your hair during the session.
Can float therapy help with the itching associated with psoriasis?
While float therapy may not directly alleviate itching, the stress reduction it provides can indirectly help to manage this symptom. Stress is known to exacerbate itching in psoriasis sufferers, so reducing stress levels may lead to a decrease in itching.
Where can I find a reputable float therapy center?
You can find float therapy centers by searching online or asking for recommendations from friends or family. When choosing a center, look for one that is clean, well-maintained, and staffed by knowledgeable professionals. Read reviews and check for certifications to ensure that the center meets high standards of safety and hygiene. Can float therapy help psoriasis? It might, but start with a reputable, safe provider.