Heating Pad

A heating pad is a way to manage body pain with the use of thermotherapy. Localized application of heat causes dilation in the blood vessels and improves perfusion on the targeted tissues. Pain can occur due to muscle strain or exertion causing tension in tissues and muscles. This can lead to blood constriction and sending pain signals to the brain. Heat application then eases the pain by improving the flow of oxygen and nutrients in injured tissues and fastens the healing process. Heat stimulates the skin sensation, thereby decreasing the pain signals being transmitted to the brain. It also helps in increasing flexibility of tissues around the injured area.

 

 Types of Heating Pad

Heating pads are portable and help to soothe painful joint aches. Its types include electrical and chemical heating pads. Electrical heating pads operate on current, are adjustable with a thermostat and require precaution on overheating. Moist heating pads are used dry on the affected skin. They register very high temperatures and could prove to be dangerous if left unattended. They are used mainly by physical therapists for treating severe headaches and sinus problems. Chemical heating pads rely on chemical reactions to generate heat and most are meant for one-time use. Microwaveable heating pads are made from insulating material filled with sand, grain or bean particles that hold heat.

Uses of Heating Pad

Medically, heating pads have an extensive range of usage. For example, it is used in operation theatres with cool temperatures to maintain temperature during surgery on humans and animals. Heating pads are also useful in pain management as they increase perfusion and ensure healthy circulation of blood. It is also used in incubators for infants to provide gentle heat. Heating pads provide great relief in lower back pain as it stimulate the receptors under the skin. It is also used for treatment of sports injuries, back pain, menstrual cramps, arthritis or any pain where heat can provide immediate relief.

 Precautions with Heating Pad

Heating pads, like other form of heat therapy provide immediate relief and are convenient as they can be used at the comforts of the home or on the move while driving or working. They do need to be handled safely, cannot be left unattended and require close monitoring, since they can cause burns or fire. It shouldn’t be used on an infant, people with skin sensitive to temperature changes (old people, diabetes patients and stroke patients). It should be refrained from use on sleeping or unconscious people. Once the heating pad shows signs of wear and tear, frayed wires or crack in the covering, then it should be replaced immediately. Heating pads requires inspection before it is put to use and it is important to ensure it is in working order. A heating pad should always be placed on top of the body part in need and never under it. It needs to be unplugged when not in use. Heating pads should never be handled by infants and reading the user manual is important even for adults for safety purposes.