Exploring the health benefits of sauna bathing
Exploring the Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing - a Pilot Study
This study tests if using a sauna followed by cold water immersion can help people aged 18 to 70 manage their blood pressure and improve heart health.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 12 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The Centre for Health Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Tauranga) |
| Trial ID | NCT06875466 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of Finnish sauna bathing combined with cold water immersion on cardiovascular health, particularly focusing on blood pressure management. It aims to take a holistic approach to understand how these traditional practices can influence cardiovascular disease risk factors. Participants aged 18 to 70 with specific blood pressure ranges will be included, and the study will assess both physiological and social aspects of sauna use. The research seeks to fill a gap in current knowledge regarding the combined effects of these therapies.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 70 with blood pressure readings between 110-179 mmHg.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cardiovascular conditions or acute illnesses may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a non-pharmacological approach to managing hypertension and reducing cardiovascular disease risk.
How similar studies have performed: While sauna bathing has been studied for its health benefits, the combined effects with cold water immersion are less explored, making this approach relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * SBP: 110-179 mmHg; DBP 60-99 mmHg) * 18 - 70 y old. * Participants who are prescribed anti-hypertensive or dyslipidaemia medications will be included but must be on a stable dose for at least 30 days. Exclusion Criteria: * stable or unstable angina * recent myocardial infarction (\<3 months) * orthostatic hypotension * severe aortic stenosis * pregnancy * acute infectious diseases * rheumatoid arthritis in the acute inflammatory phase * fever for any reason * any other medical condition deemed a risk.
Where this trial is running
Tauranga
- The Centre for Health — Tauranga, New Zealand (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Anna Rolleston, PhD — The Centre for Health
- Study coordinator: Tasha Burton, MSc
- Email: tasha@thecentreforhealth.co.nz
- Phone: 0220180557
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.