ScienceDaily (2007-11-06) — Relaxation in large, sound- and light-proof tanks with high-salt water — floating — is an effective way to alleviate long-term stress-related pain. Sleep was improved, patients felt more optimistic, and the content of the vitalizing hormone prolactin increased. Anxiety, stress, depression, and perception of pain declined.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/11/071105120604.htm#

Scientific research on the pain relief benefits of floatation tanks have been going on for decades. You can see a small sample of the research by clicking here. You can click here to watch a TV segment where my wife and I were interviewed when we ran a floatation center. Also interviewed was one of our regular customers who floated for relief from fibromyalgia. 

For me, floating put an end to 6 years of progressively debilitating back pain caused by a pinched nerve in my lower back. Little surprise then that I'm such a big fan!