Thermotherapy has been widely used in recent years when it comes to treating a variety of painful conditions. It can be carried out through a number of products and methods. There are heat packs, heat wraps, topical creams, and hot water baths. It has especially become popular with people who refuse to take any oral medication to address extreme or persistent discomfort.
Hot water baths are undoubtedly effective, but since the temperature of the water may quickly decrease, the efficacy of the method tends to be inconsistent. That has prompted the rise of microwavable heating pads that can stay hot for more extended periods.
These pads can increase blood flow in the affected area since the heat they provide opens up the blood vessels, allowing blood and oxygen to flow more readily to the sore spot. Here are some of the ways you can use a microwavable heating pad for thermotherapy depending on the type of body pain you’re experiencing:
- Backache
When you work for hours on end with your back exposed to elements like cold air coming from an air conditioner, that part of your body can become sore and stiff. A microwavable heating pad could provide you with temporary relief. Placing it for 15 minutes on the area will help you sleep more soundly without worrying about your aching back. The heat from the pad may decrease muscle spasms and increase tissue elasticity, allowing for improvement in joint mobility.
You shouldn’t ignore backaches because you likely won’t be able to go about your daily routine if you suffer from them. They might also worsen over time if left on their own, so it’s a must to find solutions to them right away.
- Neck Discomfort
Because of the amount of time people spend using their cellphones in the span of a day, the forward flexing of the neck increases the force and pressure to the muscles, ligaments, discs, and tendons there. This results in a condition now coined ‘text neck.’
Text neck could be problematic for individuals in the long run, affecting everything from their chores to their work. They can alleviate it and get through the day by using a microwavable heating pad.
- Menstrual Cramps
Those who suffer from menstrual cramps can address the issue with the help of microwavable heating pads. Also called dysmenorrhea, this happens before and during the monthly menstrual cycle. This throbbing or cramping pain in the lower abdomen is often caused by endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
The cramps can be excruciating and cause high levels of discomfort for many women. They’re terribly annoying and may interfere with everyday activities. The sensation that some women feel even radiates and extends to their lower back and thighs. Gently pressing a microwavable heating pad to the area will help minimize the pain.
- Knee Osteoarthritis
This condition is a degenerative ‘wear-and-tear’ type of arthritis mainly associated with age and weight. However, young people can be affected as well since it’s hereditary and if they’re exposed to activities that could cause repetitive strain injury, such as kneeling for long periods and lifting heavy weights.
Applying a microwavable heating pad for 15 minutes at least twice a day on the knee may help reduce discomfort. For overweight people suffering from this condition, it’s also advisable to lose some weight to lessen the pressure on their knee.
- Side Or Lower Backache Caused By Urinary Tract Infection
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and bladder, leading to inflammation. There may be pain in your sides (flank), abdomen, or pelvic area when this happens.
To lessen your discomfort, apply a heating pad to your abdomen or the sides of your body. UTI may need to be treated with antibiotics, too, because not doing so could aggravate your condition. Talk to your doctor regarding the other options you should look into.
- Migraines And Headaches
Tension headaches are the most common type of headache caused by eye strain, fatigue, poor posture, lack of sleep, and dehydration. The sensation may be mild, moderate, or intense and is usually felt behind the eye, in the head, and in the neck. It’s described as a tight band around the forehead.
You may place a heating pad on the back of your neck or your forehead to help you deal with the condition temporarily. It’s also a good idea to try figuring out what’s triggering the problem so you can avoid or minimize your exposure to it.
- Shoulder Pain
Tendonitis or the inflammation of the tendon can result from the excessive force on the arms or shoulders because of activities like sports and rough play. It can be highly unpleasant, and to address it, a heating pad on the affected area for at least 15 minutes may do the trick.
If the discomfort in your shoulders persists, it could be due to referred pain or an injury to another part your body. You have to consult with your doctor and get an X-ray or MRI to find out what’s causing the issue.
What To Do About Recurrent Conditions
You mustn’t ignore intermittent pain in your flank and abdomen. You need to have it checked because if it’s UTI and goes untreated, you’ll face a more serious condition like kidney stones, which would require hemodialysis.
Persistent lumbar pain could be because of a herniated disc or even sciatica that has to be addressed with physical therapy. If not, this could lead to more severe problems and worse pain.
It’s always best to consult your medical practitioner to know the appropriate remedy for any recurring condition you have.
Conclusion
Microwavable heat pads are quick home remedies you may utilize to target localized pain you may be feeling and get immediate relief so you can continue with your day. Remember, though, that they’re only a temporary solution, so you should still address the symptoms you’re experiencing to steer clear of severe complications.
You also need to know the limitations of heating pads. Pregnant women need to use them with caution so as not to expose their unborn child to a temperature that might cause defects or similar issues. It’s also important to heat the pad at the right setting in the microwave because prolonged exposure of the skin to excessive heat can cause minor burns and irritation.