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Heating Pads

Heating pads are used to warm specific areas of the body, rather than the whole body. They are perfect for localized pain and discomfort, and are used in a number of therapeutic treatments. Localized heat treatment dilates the blood vessels and enhances profusion, targeting the affected tissue and speeding recovery and healing. The three different kinds of heating pads: electric heating pads, chemical heating pads, and hot water bottle-type heating pads.

Electrical heating pads are operated from a household electrical current, and many have protection from overheating. There are two kinds of electrical heating pads: moist heating pads and dry heating pads. Not all heat is created equal. Moist heating pads are used on top of the skin and are perfect for deep tissue relief. The heat penetrates the skin and muscles, warming and soothing from the inside. Dry heating pads are best for joints and strained muscles. Unlike moist heat, dry heat stays near the surface of the skin. Some electrical heating pads even have mini massage units inside the pulse and vibrate, stimulating the muscles.

Chemical heating pads use a heat reservoir and a one-time chemical reaction to generate heat. Most of them involve the catalyzed rusting of iron. Most of them are not reusable and once the ingredients are used up the pad is disposed of. Sodium Acetate heating pads are one of the few that can be reused because they work by crystallizing the sodium acetate. By immersing the pad into boiling water for ten minutes, the crystals re-dissolve until activated again.

Hot water bottle heating pads usually refers to the heating mechanism of filling a water bottle with hot water, but can include anything from microwavable buckwheat pouches to warm water compresses. These types of heating pads distribute the heat evenly, without hot spots, and provide comfort to the user.

Heating pads increase circulation, relieve pressure points, lessen stress, and ease soreness of the muscles and joints. They bring fresh blood cells to the area of pain, and can speed recovery and aches, pains, strains, and arthritis. They are used by physical therapists in a number of treatments, so they are safe to use and pose minimal risk of burn.

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