A weighted heating pad is a type of poultice that uses heat to soothe the pain. Heating pads are useful for providing relief to aching joints and muscle pain. Most of the heating pads warm up the particular area and cause the muscles to dissipate. These are small devices that you can plug in to heat up to provide relief for any aches and pains. There are many benefits offered by heating pads. You can read our blog on the benefits of heating pads to know more.
How Does Weighted Heating Pad Work?
Heating pads are an effective solution to acute pain and soreness. These pads are suitable to use in any body part but they only offer a short-term fix to the pain problems. A heating pad dilates the blood vessels and allows the pain to reduce by significant degrees. They create a channel for the blood vessels to improve blood circulation and thus reduce pain considerably.
How to Use Weighted Heating Pads
Most of the heating pads come with straps to help wrap around the inflamed area. Different heating pads work differently. You can also read our blog on different types of heating pads for a better understanding.
Heating Pads For Back Pain
- Lie down and place the heating pad on the back
- Start from the lowest setting. Place a thin layer of cloth to avoid any burns if the area requires more heat
- After 2 minutes of application sit up partially and hold the position for 5 sec. This will allow the muscles to absorb the heat effectively
- Remember to take note of the time as doctors usually recommend just an hour of heating pads
Heating Pads For Shoulder Pain
- Lie down and place the bag directly on the shoulders
- Set the heating pad to the second or third heat setting
- Upright your shoulder after 3-5 minutes of therapy. This will allow muscles to take a close-up
- Remember to not use heating pads on broken skin
Heating pads are also helpful during period cramps. You can read our blog on heating pads for cramps to know more.
Some Tips
- Set the heating pad to the third setting if you are not sure of the pain source
- Never use the pad on peeled or broken skin
- Always use a thin cloth between your skin and the heating pad to avoid burns
Factors to Consider Before Buying Weighted Heating Pads
Timer
Most of the newer models of heating pads usually have a 2-hour auto shut-off mechanism. There are also many models where the timer is set manually. Make sure the control is easy to use and navigate if you prefer that model.
Size
This factor depends on your requirement. purchase one that is large enough to cover the area if you are looking for full back coverage. Go for the standard XXL ones like MIGHTY BLISS XXLarge Electric if you are looking for just shoulder coverage. Identify the coverage area before the purchase and choose the right size accordingly.
Heat Settings
Some pads offer 2 heat settings modes while some offer up to 6. The newer models like Cure Choice Large Electric Heating Pad come with the memory function to record previous settings. Check the product description well before buying. Some heating pads also come with a memory feature that remembers the heat settings you use regularly.
Warming up Time
This time varies between models and brands. Some advanced models offer quick seconds heating up while others may take up to a minute. We recommend you check out some reviews regarding the product to determine the heat-up time.
Material
Heating pads are usually made up of micro plush fiber, velvet, polyester among others. Some distribute warmth better while others are comfortable and durable. Go with the ones that can offer comfort and performance in one. The material should be able to distribute the heat properly. Look for a material that can also be machine washed.
Length of the Power Cord
This is an important point to consider as a shorter cord length may not allow taking the heating pad correctly. The length of the cord is usually mentioned in the product description. Make sure to check out the length of the cord before you decide. The length of the cord should be long enough to be used conveniently at different locations. You can also go for a shorter wire if you're worried about the long wire tripping other folks.
Wireless Feature
Some heating pads are wireless and they usually operate with the help of a battery. This feature enables you to use the heating pad wherever you want to. It is important to know the battery time and charging duration before you purchase a heating pad. Information about the battery and charge time is usually present in the packaging of the product.
Heating Methods
Heating pads can heat up using various heating technologies like microwave, infrared, electric, and non-electric sources of heat like batteries. Make sure you read the product description and reviews before purchasing the product.
How Do You Clean A Weighted Heating Pad?
You can wash a weighted heating pad after unplugging it from the electric outlet. Always detach the pad connector from the control connector before washing. You can machine wash or hand wash the heating pad in cold water. Always dry the pad connector and pad before plugging them in.
How Many Times A Day Can I Use A Heating Pad?
You can use heating pads several times a day as per your needs. The only thing you should remember is that do not use these pads for more than 15-20 minutes in one go. Using them for more time can lead to skin burns.
Are Heating Pads Safe?
Heating pads like Cure Choice XL Electric are completely safe to be used. They help in healing muscle or joint pain. It is important to use these pads in the right way. Using them inappropriately can be dangerous. Always wrap them in a towel before applying them to the skin to prevent burns.
Buy Best Heating Pads
XL Heating Pad
The reviews of the XL Heating Pad show that it is gentle to the touch wherever you place it. This pad treats pain effectively by directing a stream of heat towards the place that hurts. It is a perfect heating pad for back pain and cramps.
Pure Enrichment PureRelief XXL
Pure Enrichment PureRelief XXL's reviews claim that it is made of ultra-soft micro plush that provides ultimate comfort and coziness. This extra-wide pad offers maximum coverage to the lower back, shoulders, legs, and other muscle groups. It also has built-in moist heat therapy that ensures deep penetration for effective muscle relief
Conclusion
Heating pads use heat to reduce pain. This kind of treatment is quite effective for muscle spasms, aches, tensions, etc. Heating pads are more versatile than before and they are becoming a convenient option for regular use. BestViewsReviews rates and reviews hundred of top-quality heating pads and best electric back massagers on the basis of their effectiveness, build quality, and battery life.