Heating pads reduce pain, relax muscles and control spasms by increasing blood flow and stimulating thermoreceptors. Types include microwave, chemical, water, and electric, with electric being the most popular but also posing a risk of burns. Only approved heating pads can be used by healthcare professionals.
Heating pads are used to trigger physical reflex reactions that reduce pain, relax tight muscles and control muscle spasms. Applying surface heat to the skin increases local blood flow which reduces stiffness and also stimulates the thermoreceptors. Thermoreceptors respond to body temperature and block pain transmitters before they reach the brain. There are several types of heating pads, including microwave, chemical, water, and electric.
Microwave heating pads are usually made from flannel fabric and some types of grains such as rice, barley, buckwheat hulls or wheat. These pads can be bought at a store or made at home by sewing the fabric closed after inserting the grain. This makes them one of the most affordable options out there. Just place the filled warming bag in the microwave for one to three minutes and they’re ready to use.
Chemical tampons use a substance such as sodium acetate that reacts when a piece of metal embedded in the supersaturated chemical is pressed. This starts a crystallization process which results in instant heat. These swabs can be reused by boiling the swab in water, then allowing it to come to room temperature again. This resaturates the liquid and prepares it for the crystallization process to begin when the piece of metal is pressed again.
Hot water bottles have been around longer than any other option. These are made from rubber and have a cap that allows you to pour and seal the hot water. All types of fabric can be used to make hot water bottle covers, and even though electric and chemical heating pads have topped the top spots on popularity lists, many are still opting for hot water bottles. They’re one of the safest ways to apply heat, and users make cozy covers out of knits, fleece, and even faux fur.
Electric heating pads are a popular option. These devices are made of a sturdy material that houses an internal coil that heats up when the pad is plugged into an electrical outlet. They usually have a removable and washable fabric cover. The benefit of an electrical device is its ability to produce an even amount of heat throughout the pad. The downside is that they have been linked to burns and other injuries and must be used with care.
Only approved heating pads can be used by healthcare professionals to treat patients. A special “medical use” designation is required due to accidental burns and injury to patients who are unable to sense temperature change or are unable to communicate that the skin is getting too hot. These devices must have more than one type of sensor to control the electrical output.
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