Moist Heating pads - Some Benefits and Buying Guide

If you have muscle strain or pain, stiffness or swelling in the joints you may have tried heat therapy. Many people use a hot water bottle, which is fine in an emergency, but not very convenient if the pain is persistent and you need to treat it over a period of time. Electric moist heating pads are much more conveneient and moist heat is often more effective for these types of problems than dry heat. They keep a constant heat for long periods of time and don't need to be reheated as a hot water bottle or microwaveable heating pad needs. Many of the dry heating pads or wraps begin to cool soon after you apply them so are not as effective at controlling the pain.

Moist heat is much better at loosening stiff muscles than dry heat and is also very effective for arthritis pain. Newer moist heating pads do not contain water but gain the moisture needed from the atmosphere where it is absorbed by the material cover. This mpoisture is then released when the internal elemenst are switched on to warm the heating pad.

Why is moist heat effective?

Moist heat is very effective but why is that? When blood vessels are dilated by the application of moist heat there is an increase in the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. This causes the muscles to relax, pain to decrease and healing processes to speed up. Moist heating pads may reach as high as 180F which could cause a burn if not used properly so always read and follow the manufacturers instructions.

Types of moist heating pads

You can find a wide range of types and sizes in these kinds of pads so you can be sure to find one that is ideal for your needs. You can find shoulder and back heating pads as well as glove or muff types for the hands, especially good if you suffer from arthritis. They all are provided with flannel covers which should be removable for easy cleaning. make sure you pick a pad made by a reputable manufacturer, it's not always a good idea to go for the cheapest which may be shoddily made and will not last very long.

Although we have concentrated on the pain relief offered by moist heating pads they can also be used for other things. For elderly people a heating pad can be useful if they feel the cold easily and a heating pad can even be used to pre heat your bed before sleeping! For anyone who needs that little bit extra warmth they are perfect.

Another use of moist heating pads that is a direct result of their effect on the blood vessels is in the treatment of acne. Relaxing regularly with a small moits heating pad on the affected area can help to clean and refresh the skin. Again it is essential to only use a pad that is suitable and be careful that it is not too hot.

Good quality moist heating pads should last for many years and can be used for many different situations where pain occurs. If you are an enthusiastic athlete or play sports you will know how often you need some relief from sore muscles! So, in conclusion, we can say that moist heating pads are reasonably cheap, drug free, effective and convenient for the relief of pain caused by a wide range of situations and conditions.

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