The Benefits of Heat

For centuries, doctors have prescribed heat for strains and sprains, overused muscles, and sore joints. Before heating pads came to be, hot water bottles, soaking in bathtubs of hot water and Epsom salts, and ointment rubs were used to combat pain and promote restful sleep.

How Heat Tackles Pain

Strain and exertion creates tension in muscles and soft tissues, constricting circulation and sending pain signals to the brain. Heat stimulates sensations in the skin, and decreases pain signals sent to the brain. Heat regulates blood flow; it improves the efficiency and ease at which joints, muscles and organs function, and provides oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissue. Heat is successfully used to treat lumbago, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, dislocations, fractures, tendonitis, and for post-operative and post-delivery pain.

Proven Studies

A study out of the University College of London declared that heat is not merely a provider of comfort - it deactivates the pain at a molecular level and acts very much like prescription painkillers. Studies indicate that heat therapy soothes and comforts aches and strains, while cold therapy reduces inflammation and swelling of the injured area. Heat and cold therapy are successful in treating common ailments like migraines, sinus and tension headaches, earaches, gout, baby colic, growing pains, muscle stiffness, body aches, toothaches, cramps, and tired feet.

Managing Pain

Pain affects energy levels, mental awareness, sleep patterns, mobility, posture, strength, stamina, abilities to work, and personal and professional relationships. Heat from electric blankets and electric mattress pads provide comfort, but not as effectively as heating pads that easily conform to ailing body parts so that heat is effectively applied to the troubled area. Being portable, heating pads can be used almost anywhere. Occasionally doctors will prescribe alternating heat for pain and cold for inflammation. Moist heating pads produce a more penetrating heat and are the choice of physical therapists.