Some heat pads for back pain can be bulky and awkward to use but most heat pads for pain relief are discreet enough to be used at work, depending on the nature of the work environment of course. Heated pads are pads which are used for warming of parts of the body in order to manage pain. Localized application of heat causes the blood vessels in that area to dilate, enhancing perfusion to the targeted tissue. Types of heating pads include electrical, chemical and hot water bottles.
Heat packs can also be made by filling a container with a material that has a high specific heat capacity, which then gradually releases the heat over time. A hot water bottle is the most familiar example of this type of heating pad. Microwavable heat packs are a heating pad that is warmed by placing it in a microwave oven before use. Microwavable heating pads are typically made out of a thick insulating fabric such as flannel and filled with grains such as wheat, buckwheat or flax seed. Due to their relative simplicity to make, they are frequently sewn by hand, often with a custom shape to fit the intended area of use. These are not to be confused with heating mats which are a totally different thing used for under floor heating.
Sometimes aromatic compounds will also be added to the filler mixture to create a pleasant or soothing smell when heated. The source of these can vary significantly, ranging from adding essential oils to ground up spices such as cloves and nutmeg, or even dried rose petals. I used to have a lovely one which always smelled of lavender and was soothing to the senses as I would use it just before bedtime.
Many episodes of pain come from muscle exertion or strain, which creates tension in the muscles and soft tissues. This tension can constrict circulation, sending pain signals to the brain. Heat application eases pain by:
- Dilating the blood vessels surrounding the painful area. Increased blood flow provides additional oxygen and nutrients to help heal the damaged muscle tissue.
- Stimulating sensation in the skin and therefore decreasing the pain signals being transmitted to the brain.
- Increasing the flexibility (and decreasing painful stiffness) of soft tissues surrounding the injured area, including muscles and connective tissue.
As many heat pads for pain relief are portable, heat may be applied as needed at home, at work, or while traveling. Some physicians recommend alternating heat and ice for pain relief but this will depend on the type and location of the pain or injury. Just ensure that you follow the instructions correctly.