Warmth and heat have long been associated with comfort, relaxation and contentment, however the therapeutic effects of heat have proven to be an effective way to relieve pain.
Additionally, heat therapy for joint, muscle and lower back pain in the form of heat patches, liniments and wheat bags are both inexpensive, and adaptable to busy lives.
Lower back pain can be the result of years of degeneration, or by simply straining or over-exerting whilst performing daily tasks.
Over-working and exertion can create painful tension in the soft tissues and muscles around the lumbar (lower) spine. This tension results in impaired circulation, and pain signals are then sent to the brain.
The spasming of muscles in the lower back can also create uncomfortable sensations; ranging from 'tingling' to severe and often debilitating pain.
How Heat Helps
When low-level heat is applied to the skin, the sensory receptors in the skin are stimulated. Therefore, when heat is applied to the painful area, the transmission of pain signals is decreased; relieving pain and discomfort.
Heat dilates the blood vessels of the muscles, increasing the oxygen and nutrient flow to the muscles. This part of the process nourishes and oxygenates the damaged tissues, promoting healing and quicker recovery.
The application of heat allows the soft tissues of the spine to stretch and relax. Therefore, with heat therapy, stiffness will decrease, and any injuries will be promoted to heal. Flexibility will be restored and increased which will allow you to move easier and return to normal duties more quickly.
Heat Has Many Benefits
Heat not only boasts significant effectiveness for pain relief - it can also be very inexpensive too.
There are many different options available. Here are a few of our favourite ones that actually work:
FlexEze are a great heat therapy patch. Each patch instantly heats after opening, and will stay warm for up to 16 hours.
FlexEze are an ideal size for the lower back, but can be used on other areas of the body for fast and effective relief.
For as little as $2.00 a patch, this is a great option for anyone who doesn't have the time to be slowed down by pain.
Click here to read more about FlexEze Heat Patches.
Zen LinimentZen Liniment is a powerful non-greasy heat liquid that requires no massaging or excessive rubbing-in. It quickly penetrates the problem area and promotes healing and pain relief immediately.
Zen Liniment harnesses the power of menthol, herbs and nutrients to effectively relieve muscle pain, tightness and cramping.
The best thing? Zen can be taken with you anywhere. It doesn't have any overpowering scent like Deep Heat - it will leave your skin smelling like peppermint and menthol. It has proven to be one of the most popular products in The Spinal Centre, and for good reason.
Click here to read more about Zen Liniment.
Wheat bags have been around for years due to their reliability and effectiveness. Not only do they keep your feet warm in winter; they are an ideal heat pain reliever too!
Wheat retains heat fantastically, and the design of wheat bags mean that they mould to the area being treated.
If you take care of your wheat bag, a good quality one like those available on The Spinal Centre can last for years. They really are a good investment for your pain relief.
Click here to read more about The Spinal Centre's Wheat Bags.
Heat - Complimenting Your Therapy
For more people, heat therapy works best when used in conjunction with other treatment modalities, such as Chiropractic or Acupuncture.
While heat can promote the relief and healing of tissue injuries, back pain may also be a sign that there is an abnormality with your spine.
If you experience symptoms of back pain, discomfort or debilitation, you should consider Chiropractic care. Chiropractic is a safe and effective way to stop your pain and solve any underlying conditions.
For more information about how Chiropractic or Acupuncture can help you, please refer to the Further Reading section at the end of this article.
Choosing Your Heat Relief
The most effective heat therapy products are the ones that maintain their heat at a proper temperature.
Heat therapy should be warm - not hot. The desired effect is for the heat to penetrate down into the muscles, not to scald the skin.
In most cases, the longer the heat is applied, the better. The amount of time you need to aply heat is condusive to your particular injury. For minor back complaints, apply heat for an hour to two. For more serious pain, apply for longer.
Remember, if you are experiencing ongoing pain, don't ignore it, or 'band-aid' it with heat therapy. Seek a professional opinion from a registered Chiropractor, and get down to the roots of your problem.
The Spinal Centre's comment:
This article is merely reiterating what has been known for many years - that heat therapy is an inexpensive and effective way to relieve your pain.
There are many options out there, but as the article mentions, the best heat therapies are the ones that stay at the correct temperature for a longer time.
This is why we love FlexEze Heat Patches.
FlexEze Heat Patches are basically a cheap way to relieve your pain. In conjunction with Chiropractic care or Acupuncture treatment (or both), FlexEze can help you get back on your feet faster.
The biggest benefit? There are no drug-side effects, no addictive substances, and no risk of internal damage.
Further Reading:
