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What are the Different Types of Heating Pads?

Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn

Heating pads are used to trigger reflex physical reactions that reduce pain, relax tight muscles, and control muscle spasms. Applying superficial heat to skin increases local blood flow which reduces stiffness, and it also stimulates thermoreceptors. Thermoreceptors are the body's temperature responders and they block pain transmitters before they reach the brain. There are several types of heating pads, including microwavable, chemical, water, and electric.

Microwaveable heating pads are generally made of flannel fabric and some type of grain such as rice, barley, buckwheat hulls, or wheat. These pads can be purchased in a store or made at home by sewing the fabric closed after inserting the grain. This makes them one of the most convenient options around. Simply place the filled heating bag in the microwave for one to three minutes and they're ready for use.

Barley, which is sometimes included in heating pads.
Barley, which is sometimes included in heating pads.

Chemical pads employ a substance such as sodium acetate that reacts when a piece of metal embedded in the supersaturated chemical is pressed. This initiates a crystallization process that results in instant heat. These pads can be reused by boiling the pad in water, then allowing it to reach room temperature again. This re-saturates the liquid and readies it for the crystallization process to begin when the metal piece is once again pressed.

Electric heating pads have the advantage of washable heat cases and adjustable heat settings.
Electric heating pads have the advantage of washable heat cases and adjustable heat settings.

Hot water bottles have been in use longer than any of the other options. These are made of rubber and have a stopper that allows hot water to be poured in and sealed. All types of fabric can be used to make hot water bottle covers, and even though electric and chemical heating pads have overtaken the top spots on the 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 with knitted fabrics, fleece, and even faux fur.

Applying superficial heat to skin increases local blood flow, reducing stiffness.
Applying superficial heat to skin increases local blood flow, reducing stiffness.

Electric heating pads are a popular option. These devices are made of a sturdy material that houses an inner coil that heats up when the pad is plugged into an electrical outlet. They usually have a removable, washable fabric cover. The advantage of an electric device is its ability to produce a uniform amount of heat throughout the pad. The disadvantage is that they've been linked to burns and other injuries and must be used with care.

Some heating pads can be heated in the microwave.
Some heating pads can be heated in the microwave.

Only approved heating pads can be used by health care workers to treat patients. A special "medical use" designation is required due to accidental burns and injury to patients who are unable to sense the change in temperature, or unable to communicate that skin is becoming too hot. These devices must have more than one type of sensor to control the electrical output.

Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn

Joining the TheHealthBoard team has helped to satisfy Hillary’s insatiable curiosity for knowledge. She also manages an electronic publishing business that allows her to develop her skills in technical writing, graphic design, and business development. Hillary has a passion for satirical writing and enjoys traveling, especially to places of historical importance.

Learn more...
Hillary Flynn
Hillary Flynn

Joining the TheHealthBoard team has helped to satisfy Hillary’s insatiable curiosity for knowledge. She also manages an electronic publishing business that allows her to develop her skills in technical writing, graphic design, and business development. Hillary has a passion for satirical writing and enjoys traveling, especially to places of historical importance.

Learn more...

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    • Barley, which is sometimes included in heating pads.
      By: 1999istek
      Barley, which is sometimes included in heating pads.
    • Electric heating pads have the advantage of washable heat cases and adjustable heat settings.
      By: nito
      Electric heating pads have the advantage of washable heat cases and adjustable heat settings.
    • Applying superficial heat to skin increases local blood flow, reducing stiffness.
      By: Gina Sanders
      Applying superficial heat to skin increases local blood flow, reducing stiffness.
    • Some heating pads can be heated in the microwave.
      By: vvoe
      Some heating pads can be heated in the microwave.
    • Heating pads may be helpful in reducing neck pain.
      By: triocean
      Heating pads may be helpful in reducing neck pain.
    • Heating pads can be used to soothe sore back muscles following heavy lifting activities.
      By: CandyBox Images
      Heating pads can be used to soothe sore back muscles following heavy lifting activities.
    • Reusable plastic compresses can be used as a heating pad.
      By: nito
      Reusable plastic compresses can be used as a heating pad.