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Embracing the Heat: The Trend of Dry Sauna Therapy for Detoxification

In the realm of wellness, an ancient practice is gaining modern popularity – dry sauna therapy. The trend of using dry saunas for detoxification has captured the attention of health enthusiasts seeking holistic approaches to well-being. In this blog post, we explore the benefits of consistent dry sauna use, supported by findings from published journal entries and reputable sources.

  1. Detoxification Through Profuse Sweating: Published studies, such as the research conducted by Hannuksela and Ellahham (2001) in the American Journal of Medicine, emphasize the ability of dry sauna therapy to induce sweating, facilitating the elimination of toxins from the body. Sweating serves as a natural mechanism for expelling heavy metals and impurities, promoting a thorough detoxification process.
  2. Stress Reduction and Endorphin Release: The relaxation induced by dry sauna therapy is not merely anecdotal. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (Manninen et al., 2015) highlights the positive impact of sauna sessions on stress reduction. The heat triggers the release of endorphins, contributing to a sense of calm and well-being.
  3. Enhanced Circulation and Cardiovascular Health: Findings from the Journal of Human Hypertension (Kauppinen, 1989) support the idea that the elevated temperature in dry saunas leads to blood vessel dilation, improving circulation. This enhanced blood flow contributes to better oxygenation of tissues, ultimately promoting cardiovascular health.
  4. Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery: The therapeutic benefits of dry sauna therapy extend to pain relief and muscle recovery. A study published in the International Journal of Biometeorology (Leppäluoto et al., 2008) highlights the positive effects on reducing inflammation and aiding in muscle recovery, making it a valuable adjunct to physical rehabilitation.
  5. Skin Health and Cleansing: Research in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (Paolucci et al., 2018) underscores the impact of sauna therapy on skin health. Sweating during sauna sessions helps eliminate impurities and dead skin cells, contributing to a clearer complexion and improved skin tone.
  6. Respiratory Benefits Supported by Scientific Evidence: The respiratory benefits of dry sauna therapy are substantiated by studies like the one in the European Journal of Applied Physiology (Bishop et al., 1999). The warm, dry air in saunas can have a positive impact on respiratory conditions, providing relief for individuals with asthma or bronchitis.
  7. Weight Loss and Water Weight Reduction: While not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle, research in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport (Scoon et al., 2007) suggests that sauna use can lead to temporary weight loss through the elimination of water weight. It is crucial to incorporate sauna therapy into a broader fitness plan for sustainable weight management.

As the trend of dry sauna therapy continues to flourish, scientific evidence supports its numerous health benefits. From detoxification and stress reduction to improved circulation and respiratory well-being, consistent use of dry saunas offers a holistic approach to health. Before embarking on a sauna routine, individuals are encouraged to consult with healthcare professionals, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions. So, step into the heat, backed by scientific insights, and embark on a detoxifying journey toward a healthier, more balanced life.

Dry Sauna Detox Therapy

Dry Sauna Detox Therapy

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Leaving the Cigna Network

Cigna will no longer credential acupuncturists to provide services to their members as of September 1, 2021.  Cigna will not accept or process claims for acupuncture services, and all claims will be submitted to American Specialty Health, Inc. (ASH) for processing and payment. 

In short, ASH intends to dramatically reduce the payments made to practitioners in their network. This flat rate of $40 to $50 will not cover the provider’s patient care expense to deliver services.  The cost of delivering services during this COVID-19 pandemic has risen as providers purchase PPE and modify office spaces.  Acupuncture practices are primarily small businesses and will be negative impacted by this 70% reduction in the reimbursement rates.  Unfortunately, this change challenges the sustainability of many acupuncture practices.

Furthermore, ASH delivers a plan for acupuncture services which does not consider up-to-date research, clinical evidence, and CPT coding policy and fee structures utilized by CMS and other payers.  ASH continues to use the word “Oriental” on their website which demonstrates their outdated and biased view of East Asian Medicine (as of the date of this post).  It is not beneficial to Cigna members to have their acupuncture benefits managed by a company who has shown a disregard and lack of knowledge of East Asian Medicine.
 
Misrepresenting the practice of East Asian Medicine to health insurance consumers violates the right of patients to receive the full benefits of acupuncture and other treatment methods as it is intended under the scope of practice in our state.  Furthermore, Maryland licensed acupuncturists are independent medical providers who do not require supervision from other types of health providers or a third-party administrator. Acupuncturists are not exclusively musculoskeletal providers such as chiropractors, physical therapists, massage therapist, and fitness trainers. We practice a comprehensive medicine which goes beyond the musculoskeletal system and includes clinical evaluation and treatment of involving all the human physiological systems.   

Cigna will listen: 1-800-244-6224

Please note: This information must come from Cigna’s members, the patients and their employers. A phone call is always more powerful if they can make the time. Below is the phone information we have been given along with a phone script.

To (Cigna),
  
Because of the integration of Cigna with American Specialty Health for acupuncture services and the implementation of ASH’s significantly lower reimbursement rates, my acupuncturist of (X years) is terminating his/her contract with Cigna.  ASH reimbursement rates are so low that my acupuncturist cannot accept the rates and sustain his/her practice.  ASH severely limits the amount of time spent with patients to 1 unit which is just 15 minutes equaling around $40 per treatment.  A typical acupuncture treatment is 45-60 minutes, so this is not nearly enough time to give appropriate quality care. This change will end up costing my acupuncture practitioner, which is not sustainable for his/her practice.  For this reason, I will not be able to receive acupuncture treatments which I rely on for (conditions you get treated for). Please reconsider this drastic move on behalf of the best interest of your members and reinstate Cigna’s previous reimbursement rates. with 
  
Sincerely,
(Patient name)

What other information can my patients add to their message to Cigna?

You may also add information about how you were helped by your acupuncturist. We code for our time so your patient can describe their experience with the visits and how they have improved from each encounter to the next.  Writing from the heart with the truth is best.

Include the following information

  • Provider Name: Christian Fadgen, M.Ac., L.Ac.
  • NPI: 1902127574
  • Service address:
    Ease Into Acupuncture (EIN: 83-2047210)
    1131 Belair Rd, Suite L-3
    Bel Air, MD 21014
  • Reason for termination:
    Insufficient Practitioner Reimbursement
  • Effective Date: June 1, 2021

Exploring Meditation

Go “out of your mind” daily

Many of my patients express an interest in meditation but, don’t know where to start. 

I am a big fan of the philosopher and educator Alan Watts. He is a scholar of eastern culture and a great number his audio recordings are available online. 

With regard to meditation, Watts relates the “why” and the “how” in a way that gets to the heart of the practice. I really like his approach to teaching because he offers a wide view and a great deal of context. Because of this, most recordings are over an hour, but you can listen to it in sections (per your own ability to absorb) and come back to it repeatedly. You don’t have to “get it” in a single listen and be open to multiple exposures so all the layers have a chance to come together. 

The video below is just under 15 minutes and is a great start.