Heating pads are manufactured specifically for pain relief. They help to control muscle spasms and ease tight muscles by triggering the body's reflex physical reactions. Once applied, heating pads provide heat which serves to increase the amount of blood flowing to the area, thereby reducing stiffness in that area.
Heating pads warmed in the microwave consist of flannel and are often filled with a grain such as rice, wheat, barley or buckwheat hulls. These pads are heated in a microwave for one to three minutes. They are simple to make at home.
Heating pads that make use of a chemical fill such as sodium acetate are common. Their creation involves embedding metal in supersaturated chemical. On the pressing of this metal, the chemical reacts and causes crystallization to occur. This results in instant heat. Prior to subsequent use, boil the heating pad in hot water. This ensures that they are ready for re-saturation. It allows crystallization to occur on the pressing of the metal. It should be noted that following the boiling of the pad, the pad should be allowed to cool to room temperature prior to reuse.
Electric heating pads are highly popular. This type of heating pad houses an inner coil which warms up when the pad is connected up to the electrics. The casing of an electrical heating pad is composed of sturdy material which can be removed to be washed. The heat that they provide is evenly distributed throughout the heat pad. These heating pads should be used with great care as they can get very hot.
Hot water bottles are the most well known and oldest heating pads available. These are soft rubber bottles which are filled with hot water and then sealed with a stopper. They are usually covered with a knitted, fleece, flannel or faux fur cover.
Heating pads are a highly popular form of keeping warm during the cold nights of the winter months.