Abstract

Peripheral capillaries are damaged, and Raynaud’s phenomenon occurs frequently in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Treatment with vasodilators often results in adverse effects, such as headache and facial flushing, and does not lead to sufficient therapeutic effects. The transient receptor potential V4 (TRPV4) channel is a thermoreceptor that contributes to capillary dilation and growth. Recent studies have explored whether local thermal stimulation sufficient to activate TRPV4 can alleviate RP. This heating resulted in improvements in the severity, frequency, and duration of RP, and the area around the elbow was found to be an appropriate site for heating. During heating, an increase in the capillary-stabilizing factor angiopoietin-1 was observed in the fingertips, and improvements in capillary morphology were confirmed. Collectively, these findings suggest that controlled thermal stimulation around the elbow may represent a safe and practical adjunctive strategy for alleviating RP and improving peripheral microvascular function.

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