Heating Pad
(Redirected from Heat Therapy)
Other Names
- Electric Heating Pad
- Heat Therapy Pad
- Moist Heating Pad
- Thermal Heating Pad
- Heating Wrap
- Heat Pad
- Electric Heat Pad
Indications
- Numerous indications
- Chronic Back Pain
- Mechanical Back Pain
- Cervical Whiplash
- Myofascial Neck Pain
- Muscle strain or muscle spasm
- Neck pain and cervical muscle tension
- Arthritis and joint stiffness
- Menstrual cramps
- Post-exercise muscle soreness
Description
- A heating pad is a reusable device designed to deliver localized heat therapy to painful or stiff areas of the body.
- Most models contain electrical heating elements with adjustable temperature settings and automatic shut-off timers for safety.
- Heat therapy increases local blood flow, muscle relaxation, and tissue elasticity, which can reduce pain and stiffness.
- Heating pads are commonly used for musculoskeletal pain, muscle spasms, and chronic joint conditions.
- Some devices allow moist heat therapy by adding water or using a damp cover to enhance heat penetration into tissues.
Evidence
- Cochrane review: moderate evidence supporting superficial heat therapy as reducing pain and disability in patients with acute and subacute low back pain[1]
- Addition of exercise further reducing pain and improved function
- Benefit greatest in first week following injury[2]
See Also
References
- ↑ French SD, Cameron M, Walker BF, Reggars JW, Esterman AJ. A Cochrane review of superficial heat or cold for low back pain. Spine. 2006;31(9):998-1006
- ↑ Mayer JM, Ralph L, Look M, et al. Treating acute low back pain with continuous low-level heat wrap therapy and/or exercise: a randomized controlled trial. Spine J. 2005;5:395-403
Created by:
John Kiel on 5 August 2024 22:19:04
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Last edited:
15 March 2026 16:35:38
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