Heat Therapy

How Heat Helps Pain

Heat therapy (thermotherapy) is one of the oldest and most accessible treatments for chronic pain. Heat increases blood flow to the area, relaxes muscles, reduces stiffness, and provides comfort. For many chronic pain conditions, it's a simple, safe, and effective part of self-management.¹

How It Works²

Increases blood flow and circulation
Relaxes tense muscles
Reduces joint stiffness
Increases tissue extensibility
May reduce pain signals
Promotes relaxation

When to Use Heat

Chronic muscle pain and stiffness
Arthritis stiffness
Muscle spasms
Before stretching or exercise
Chronic back and neck pain
Fibromyalgia

When NOT to Use Heat

Acute injuries (first 48-72 hours)
Swelling or inflammation
Open wounds or infections
Areas with poor circulation
Over areas with decreased sensation
During a flare of inflammatory arthritis

Types of Heat Application³

Dry Heat

Electric heating pads
Microwaveable heat packs
Heat wraps
Infrared heat lamps

Moist Heat

Hot baths or showers
Moist heating pads
Hot towels
May penetrate deeper than dry heat

How to Apply

Use moderate heat (not hot)
Apply for 15-30 minutes
Use barrier (towel) between heat source and skin
Check skin periodically
Don't fall asleep on heating pad

Safety Tips

Never use high settings
Don't apply to broken skin
Check for burns
Don't use if you can't feel temperature
Keep heating pads in good condition
Follow product instructions

Heat vs. Cold

Heat: chronic pain, stiffness, muscle tension
Cold: acute injuries, swelling, inflammation
Some people alternate both
Personal preference matters

Cautions

Diabetics: reduced sensation—be careful
Elderly: skin may be more sensitive
Circulatory problems: consult doctor
Don't use over topical medications

References

Nadler SF, Weingand K, Kruse RJ. The physiologic basis and clinical applications of cryotherapy and thermotherapy for the pain practitioner. Pain Physician. 2004;7(3):395-399.
Malanga GA, Yan N, Stark J. Mechanisms and efficacy of heat and cold therapies for musculoskeletal injury. Postgrad Med. 2015;127(1):57-65.
French SD, Cameron M, Walker BF, et al. Superficial heat or cold for low back pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2006;1:CD004750.