Heat therapy can provide pain relief for a number of ailments and conditions. It works by dilating the blood vessels in the chosen area, thereby increasing blood circulation. This process increases oxygen flow and provides nutrients to the muscle, helping to heal the damaged or affected area.
The application of heat also stimulates sensory receptors in the skin and causes transmission of pain signals to the brain to decrease helping to relieve discomfort. It will also relax the muscle and connective tissue, helping to increase flexibility and overall comfort.
Heat therapy has been found to be particularly suitable for people suffering from lower back pain, and the application of a heatpack can be a discreet and practical solution to alternative methods of heat application.
Heat is also beneficial in a number of other debilitating and painful conditions. These include: Raynaud’s Syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, Arthritis, period pain and IBS.
As a general rule, after injury, cold therapy should be applied for the first 2 days before commencing any heat therapy.
Before any treatment is commenced you should consult your doctor as to its suitability and heat therapy should not be used where swelling or bruising is evident. For this application cold therapy can be beneficial.
See The Benefits of Cold Therapy
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