Joint aches and pains are common ailments that most people experience at some point. While most patients with these conditions simply take a pain reliever and rest, another beneficial treatment is using heat on the affected joints. Both heating pads and simple homemade compresses can effectively apply heat to aching joints. Speak to your doctor for treatment if your condition persists.
Heat for Arthritis
Heat can be very beneficial in the treatment of arthritis. Compresses or heating pads can help limit joint stiffness while promoting blood flow to the injured or affected areas. Heat drives blood to the warmed area, where red and white blood cells heal and prevent infection in an injured or chronically painful joint. Soaking in a hot tub or Jacuzzi may keep joints from becoming stiff due to arthritis, especially if a hot pack is not available. For fingers and toes, a warm wax paraffin bath can be useful to surround the joints with warmth. Speak to your doctor about how heat can help treat your specific arthritic condition.
Heat Application Techniques
Heating affected joints can be helpful only if proper procedures are followed. For example, heating the skin surrounding a joint can be harmful and painful if the heat source is either too hot or is used for too long. Use a hot compresses or soak in a warm tub for no more than 15 to 20 minutes at a time. If using a hot compress, place a towel barrier between your skin and the heat source to prevent injury. And allow your body’s temperature to return to normal before applying another heat treatment to the affected joint.
Other Benefits
Heat therapy can soothe many other aches and pains in the body. Applying heat to the forehead or neck can help sooth neck pain, headaches and even migraines. When applied to the wrist, heat can alleviate symptoms of carpal tunnel or tendinitis. If you are an active athlete, heat can ease pain and discomfort associated with chronic conditions like tennis elbow.
