The use of heat packs on any aching body part can provide relief to the pain and stiffness. Throughout the years, heat has been utilized as a simple yet highly effective way in managing joint pain or muscular stiffness. Take note that deep and penetrating heat not only alleviates the pain but also improves the recovery process.
How does it relieve pain and stiffness?
When heat packs are applied on sore muscles and joints, the heat stimulates the sensory receptors to block the transmission of the pain signals to the brain. As a result, there is an immediate and effective relief from the pain.
Even those who suffer from chronic pain, heat packs can relieve the discomfort. For those who suffer from either pain or rigidity that settles with the application of heat, a warm bath or hot shower are ideal. Alternatively, if a microwave is on hand, a wheat-based heat pack can be quite beneficial.
How does heat work?
- By increasing the elasticity of the tissues, heat lowers the resting muscle tension and alleviates the sore knots.
- Pain is rapidly relieved via sedation and soothing of the nerve endings irritated by pain.
- The deep heating effect improves the flow of blood to the sore area to supply more nutrients to the damaged area while eliminating the injured debris. This helps in hastening the healing period.
- The use of deep heat also promotes a faster healing rate by stimulating the natural metabolic rate. It simply means that there is increased energy to fix the injury at a faster rate.
Close look on wheat-based packs
A wheat-based heat pack can be easily heated in a microwave with a turntable in around 2 minutes.
It is recommended to use a sturdy but soft fabric for comfortable use and able to mold to the body shape. This is ideal for curved areas such as the knees, neck and shoulders. Additionally, it can be used in bed during the cold season.
Disclaimer / More Information
The information posted on this page on heat packs is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn more about the benefits of heat packs, register for first aid training at one of our training centers located throughout Canada. The training centers are in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Kelowna, Saskatoon, Victoria, Surrey, Mississauga, Winnipeg, Red Deer, Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax.