Are Microwave Heating Pads Safe? Best 75 Answer

In this article we describe three ways to make a heating pad at home. We’re also exploring how heat can help relieve a variety of symptoms.

Many people use heating pads to relieve neck pain, back pain, muscle pain, symptoms of arthritis, and menstrual cramps.

Using a heating pad can help relieve pain and reduce stiffness in the muscles and joints. This is one way to provide heat therapy or thermal therapy.

Many stores sell heating pads, but they’re easy to make at home.

To make a heating pad, use:

1. A wet tea towel

Place a wet tea towel in a freezer bag and heat in the microwave. First, make sure the bag is microwave safe.

Wrap the heat pack in a towel and apply it to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time.

2. A towel heated in the oven

Share on Pinterest One person can use a towel to make a homemade heating pad.

People can use this method to make a larger heating pad.

First, place a damp, folded towel in an oven set at 149°C (300°F). Leave the towel in the oven for 5-10 minutes. The right time depends on the thickness of the towel.

Once warm, wrap the towel in a thinner, dry cloth and place on the affected area for 15-20 minutes.

3. An old sock

People can make reusable heating pads out of fabric or an old sock. It is also possible to use these as cold compresses by freezing them instead of heating them.

Take an old, clean sock and fill it three-quarters full with uncooked rice, corn, barley, or oatmeal. Tie or sew closed and microwave for 1-2 minutes.

To avoid burns, always test a heating pad on the inside of the arm before applying it to the affected area. It should feel comfortably warm but not hot.

Home Care Guide: Using a Heating Pad

One of the best sources for muscle and joint pain relief is a heating pad. The stressed and overused muscles can be significantly relieved by the application of heat. Using common materials around your house, there are quick and easy ways to make your own heating pad to ease the pain in your joints and muscles.

The main benefit of heat therapy is increasing blood flow to the painful areas. Blood vessels open when heat is applied, allowing increased blood flow to the injured or sore area, increasing oxygen levels and flushing away metabolic waste. It is well known that heat relaxes muscle spasms by relaxing muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

To use heat therapy at home, you don’t have to go out and buy an electric heating pad. You can make two different heating pads with common material around the house.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR HOME HEAT THERAPY

Before we detail the two common methods of using a heating pad at home, here are the basic instructions for using heat therapy at home.

Do NOT apply to the affected area for more than 15 minutes. Use a layer of towels between your skin and the heating pad. Remove for at least 1 hour and then repeat. 2-3 applications per day are advisable. Dry electric heating pads are not recommended.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN HEATING PAD

Make a heating pad yourself: Method 1

1. Dampen two towels with water and squeeze out the excess water until just damp. 2. Put a towel in a zippered bag, be sure to leave the bag open. 3. Place the pouch in the microwave and heat on high for one to two minutes. 4. Remove the bag – be careful – it gets hot! 5. Zipper the bag and wrap the other damp towel around the bag. 6. Do not put your homemade heating pad on the sore spot for more than 15 minutes.

Make a heating pad yourself: Method 2

1. Find a pair of unused socks. Make sure it is not synthetic material. 2. Fill a sock with uncooked rice. Leave space at the top to close the opening. 3. Place this sock inside another sock, opening first. Close the opening. 4. When ready to use, microwave on high for about 2 minutes. 5. Remove from the microwave (WARNING: It’s hot!) and apply to the affected area.

If your pain lasts longer than 4-6 days, contact our practice. It’s probably more than a simple pain. Call (314) 731-4383 or CLICK TO CALL NOW

People who use self-heating hotpots, a popular new product, risk scalding and even injury in explosions, the Shanghai Consumer Council warned on Tuesday.

Hu Min / SHINE

Hu Min / SHINE

People who use self-heating hotpots, a popular new product, risk scalding and even injury in explosions, the Shanghai Consumer Council warned on Tuesday.

The hotpots contain heat packs that activate when water is added – the ingredients are then steamed.

The products have become a hit because of their convenience, council officials said.

The sales volume of self-heating stews during the annual Singles Day shopping spree in November last year reached 4.53 million, more than doubling the sales figure of 1.7 million in 2017, the council said.

However, there is no industry standard, which raises security concerns.

The council conducted tests on 20 self-heating hotpot products purchased both online and offline, priced between 16.9 yuan (US$2.5) and 49.9 yuan. The tests included temperatures, gas released after activation and the contents of the heat packs.

“Tests showed that the heat packs gave off hydrogen, a flammable gas, and the amount of hydrogen was huge,” said Shang Zhaocong, deputy director of the National Chemical Product Safety and Quality Supervision and Testing Center.

According to Shang, one pack of hotpots produces about 40 liters of hydrogen.

“Eating a hotpot in an enclosed space like a car or a room with closed windows creates hazards,” Shang said.

“If people start the car or smoke after eating two packs of the food, there is a risk of an explosion because a 4 percent concentration of hydrogen in the room will trigger a combustion.”

The tests also revealed that the highest temperature one of the hotpots reached was 121.9 degrees Celsius, posing a risk of scalding, Shang said.

In addition, the packs of six samples deformed during use.

The council suggested that the competent authorities draft a standard that covers both safety requirements and product warnings.

The council warned consumers not to use the hotpots in enclosed areas and classify them as hazardous waste.

Although recent reports have been mixed regarding the groundhog’s prediction of a longer winter or the arrival of spring, one thing is certain: “Baby, it’s cold outside!” Many homes have at least one heating pad and probably an electric blanket. Aunt Louise may have even given you one last Christmas, which is still in the box. But when temperatures drop, you might be looking for that electric warmth to warm up your toes. Danger! According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), heating pads and electric blankets are responsible for about 500 fires each year. A majority of these fires involve electric blankets that are more than ten years old.

Here are a few safety tips to help you and your family stay safe and warm during the cold months:

Always inspect the electric heater before use. Examine the pad or blanket for dark, charred, or frayed areas. Also look for cracks or frays on the power cord. If you see any of these worn areas, replace the device immediately. And if you suspect the heater is more than ten years old, replace it to reduce the chance of a serious fire. To avoid overheating and possible fire, do not place anything (pets, other blankets, etc.) on a heating pad or blanket during use. Do not fold the electric blanket when in use as this can also cause overheating which can lead to a fire. Do not leave heater unattended or use while sleeping. Always turn off the device and even unplug the power cord before going to sleep at night.

By following these safety tips, you will greatly reduce the chance of a serious fire that could harm you and your loved ones. Take care!

Is it overdue for a technician to check your heating system or adjust your HVAC system? Call (770) 942-2873 or contact us today to speak to a heating and cooling expert.

Like all treatments, thermal (heat) therapies carry some risks and potential complications.

Possible risks of heat therapy

The risks of heat application are small, but caution is still necessary. There are 4 known consequences of improper use of heat therapy products and services:

rash or burn. Prolonged use of heat packs and heating pads, or application of an excessively hot heat source without a barrier to the skin can cause contact burns. A rash or burn that takes on a characteristic web-like pattern and appears red or dark in color is called erythema ab igne. While erythema ab igne usually resolves after heat therapy is stopped, a biopsy may be needed to test for precancerous cells. Finally, excessive alcohol consumption or dehydration in a sauna can lead to unconsciousness, resulting in severe burns that break down muscle tissue and increase the risk of kidney damage.

Prolonged use of heat packs and heating pads, or application of an excessively hot heat source without a barrier to the skin can cause contact burns. A rash or burn that takes on a characteristic web-like pattern and appears red or dark in color is called erythema ab igne. While erythema ab igne usually resolves after heat therapy is stopped, a biopsy may be needed to test for precancerous cells. Finally, excessive alcohol consumption or dehydration in a sauna can lead to unconsciousness, resulting in severe burns that break down muscle tissue and increase the risk of kidney damage. Decreased blood pressure. After a single session of heat therapy, blood pressure drops. Because of the sudden drop in blood pressure, people who often suffer from orthostatic hypotension (dizziness or light-headedness when standing up) may find certain heat treatments problematic.

After a single session of heat therapy, blood pressure drops. Because of the sudden drop in blood pressure, people who often suffer from orthostatic hypotension (dizziness or light-headedness when standing up) may find certain heat treatments problematic. Increased heart rate. The heart has to work faster to keep up with the increased blood flow to the heated area. The increased heart rate will return to baseline once heat treatment is removed or stopped. The changes in heart rate during and after therapy can pose significant risks for people with cardiovascular diseases such as arrhythmia.

The heart has to work faster to keep up with the increased blood flow to the heated area. The increased heart rate will return to baseline once heat treatment is removed or stopped. The changes in heart rate during and after therapy can pose significant risks for people with cardiovascular diseases such as arrhythmia. Increased swelling and inflammation. Heat therapy is not recommended immediately after physical activity, after injury, or during an infection. Heat worsens pain and prolongs healing if used when tissue is damaged or infected.

Risks can be more or less worrying at different times of the year. For example, blood pressure is inherently lower in summer, so orthostatic hypotension or other cardiac events are more likely to occur in warmer weather.

Additional risks of heat therapy may exist as this list is not exhaustive. Many of the potential risks can be mitigated provided heat therapy is performed for the suggested duration.

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7 possible contraindications for heat therapy

It is important to assess general condition before applying the variety of heat treatments publicly available. For example, a swollen or injured lower back warrants an ice or cold pack to reduce swelling rather than a heat pack. Moderate to intense exercise requires a minimum of 4 hours separation from the application of heat therapy. In addition, certain conditions that make the skin more sensitive, such as For example, rule out heat therapy—or certain types of heat therapy—as a recommended option. Consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about these contraindications.

The application of heat is considered inappropriate in the presence of the following health conditions:

1. Dermatitis

Skin diseases such as contact dermatitis or eczema can be triggered by high temperatures and low humidity, so that dry heat therapy in particular can lead to flare-ups. Rashes usually fade within 2 to 3 weeks when heat therapy is stopped and treatment for dermatitis is used.

2. Deep vein thrombosis

A blood clot that develops in a vein can block blood flow back to the heart. Although a heating pad is usually recommended as part of the treatment, the heat actually increases the swelling and therefore the pain. Increased blood flow from heat therapy can also force the clot to break loose and enter vital organs like the brain or lungs, where the clot can cause serious damage.

3. Chronic heart failure

Heart disease, such as chronic heart failure, impairs the body’s ability to increase blood flow and sweating in response to heat. This weakened reaction can worsen heart diseases up to high blood pressure. Patients with cardiovascular problems need to gradually reduce body temperature after heat therapy. For example, a cool shower after a sauna session is better than jumping into an ice bath.

4. Diabetes

High temperatures dehydrate the body and increase blood sugar levels. Alternatively, increased blood flow from heat therapy delivers more glucose to the muscles, thereby lowering the level of glucose in the blood itself. The impact of heat on blood sugar can have significant negative consequences for patients with diabetes. However, research indicates that global warming, for example in a warm room, has a positive effect on the healing of diabetic ulcers.

5. Peripheral vascular disease

This condition is sometimes called peripheral artery disease and can be made worse by heat. However, research suggests that frequent spa bathing can lower resting blood pressure and improve the ability to walk long distances.

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6. Open wound

Although injuries generally benefit from heat therapy, heat applied to open wounds increases blood flow to the wound and possibly bleeding.

7. Severe cognitive impairment

Dementia can affect the memory of turning off a heat product or remembering how long it has been since you went to a sauna. It is also important to note that heat therapy is not always compatible with alcohol consumption, which has resulted in rare cases of sauna-related deaths.

Patients with any of these conditions can discuss the risks of moderate heat therapy, as well as safer alternatives, with a doctor.

Find out more about the early treatment of back pain

While there are concerns about the safety of electric blankets, there is minimal risk of fire or burns with a new electric blanket. The same does not apply to old, damaged or improperly used electric blankets, which are responsible for most cases of electric blankets causing fires and burns to people. If you like sleeping with an electric blanket on your bed and you don’t know how old your electric blanket is, you should buy a new one because: New electric blankets have safety features like a rheostat control that reduce the risk of fire and burning.

According to Columbia University, 99 percent of all electric blanket fires are caused by people 10 years of age or older.

Older blankets may not have internal temperature controls to turn them off before they get too hot. Read on to learn more about the potential dangers of electric blankets and how to avoid them.

How to Avoid Potential Safety Risks There are steps you can take to reduce the risks of a potentially dangerous electric blanket, including: Look for a label that indicates the blanket has been tested by a nationally recognized independent testing agency such as Underwriters Laboratories ( UL ).

Do not buy a used electric blanket.

Avoid blankets that show signs of excessive wear, such as cracks, discoloration, burn marks, frayed power cords, or damaged temperature controls.

Do not use an electric blanket with wires and attachments that are not secure and secure.

Hold the blanket up to the light. If you see embedded heating wires that are damaged or displaced, do not use the blanket.

How to Use an Electric Blanket Safely While modern electric blankets are generally considered safe, they should be used correctly. Recommendations for proper use include: When you are not using your blanket, turn it off.

Do not use more than one electric blanket at a time.

Do not use an electric blanket and a heating pad at the same time.

To avoid accidental activation, do not plug your blanket into an outlet controlled by a light switch.

Don’t wash an electric blanket.

Do not chemically clean an electric blanket.

If your blanket doesn’t have a timer, turn it off before you go to sleep.

Do not lie or sit on an electric blanket.

Do not tuck the edges of an electric blanket under the mattress.

Do not stack pillows, blankets, books, toys, or other items on an electric blanket.

Avoid using a hot water bottle and an electric blanket at the same time.

Do not plug in or turn on a wet electric blanket.

Do not use an electric blanket with an adjustable hospital bed or a waterbed.

When storing an electric blanket, roll it up carefully or hang it up. If you need to fold it, fold as few folds as possible.

Do not turn on a folded or rolled up electric blanket and do not leave it on. If you have concerns about an electric blanket, unplug it. It can still be used as a regular blanket.

Connection between Electric Blanket and Cancer The connection between electric and magnetic fields (EMF) and cancer has been debated for years. According to the National Cancer Institute, electric blankets are a source of extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields (ELF-EMFs), as are power lines, electrical cords, and electrical appliances such as hair dryers and razors. The National Cancer Institute states that “no mechanism has been identified by which ELF-EMF or radiofrequency radiation could cause cancer”. Berkeley Wellness also notes that there is “no convincing evidence that typical exposures to EMF pose any risk” of causing cancer.

Electric blankets and diabetes If you have diabetes, your doctor may advise against using electric blankets and heating pads. A complication of diabetes for some people is neuropathy (nerve damage). This can affect your ability to feel when an electric blanket or pad is unacceptably hot. Failure to dial down or remove a heated blanket or pad that is too hot can result in overheating and even burns. If you have diabetes and want to use an electric blanket, the Mayo Clinic says you should consider using it to warm your bed before bed and then turning off or removing the blanket before going to bed.

Electric Blankets and Poor Circulation If you have poor circulation, you could be heat sensitive. Consult your doctor before using an electric blanket or heating pad for the above reasons for people with diabetes and neuropathy.

If you suffer from pain or muscle fatigue, chances are you own a heating pad and use it quite often. But are there any downsides to using one while you sleep?

What is the purpose of a heating pad?

Heat therapy is great for mild pain because it opens your blood vessels and increases blood flow. This increased blood flow reduces inflammation and helps your muscles heal faster. All in all, these are great benefits, but as it turns out, sleeping with a heating pad can come with some risks.

How dangerous are heating pads?

Heat therapy should be used in 20-minute cycles – 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off – for best results. There is little evidence that using a heating pad for more than 30 minutes has any additional benefits. Leaving a heating pad on bare skin for too long (or on a setting that is too high for an extended period of time) can cause a minor burn.

Heating pads and electric blankets both have heating elements or coils inside that allow them to heat up. Any device that has a cord can start a fire. Thanks to advances in technology, this risk is less than it used to be, but the opportunity is still there. If you use a heating pad in bed, turn it off before bed and make sure it’s not under blankets, pillows, or other flammable objects.

3 tips against back pain

If you’re using a heating pad to relieve back pain or pain, try some of these tips instead:

Take a hot shower: Warm water and steam penetrate the skin better and help the heat penetrate deeper into your muscle tissue.

Warm water and steam penetrate the skin better and help the heat penetrate deeper into your muscle tissue. Use a hot towel: You can soak a towel in hot water and squeeze out excess water to have a heat source that cools down naturally when you use it.

You can soak a towel in hot water and squeeze out excess water to have a heat source that cools down naturally when you use it. Aromatherapy Stuffed Animals: This is a relatively new product with beads inside that can be frozen or reheated in the microwave. Like a heated towel, these critters only stay warm for a limited amount of time, but feature some soothing scents like lavender to relax your muscles.

Bottom Line: Heating pads are great muscle pain relievers when used correctly and are never a good substitute for heating your home. If you’re using a heating pad at night because your heating isn’t working or isn’t working as well as it should, call Bailey Plumbing Heating Cooling! Our family takes care of your family so you don’t get stuck in the cold. Contact us today online or by phone at (800) 717-1793.

Like all treatments, thermal (heat) therapies carry some risks and potential complications.

Possible risks of heat therapy

The risks of heat application are small, but caution is still necessary. There are 4 known consequences of improper use of heat therapy products and services:

rash or burn. Prolonged use of heat packs and heating pads, or application of an excessively hot heat source without a barrier to the skin can cause contact burns. A rash or burn that takes on a characteristic web-like pattern and appears red or dark in color is called erythema ab igne. While erythema ab igne usually resolves after heat therapy is stopped, a biopsy may be needed to test for precancerous cells. Finally, excessive alcohol consumption or dehydration in a sauna can lead to unconsciousness, resulting in severe burns that break down muscle tissue and increase the risk of kidney damage.

Prolonged use of heat packs and heating pads, or application of an excessively hot heat source without a barrier to the skin can cause contact burns. A rash or burn that takes on a characteristic web-like pattern and appears red or dark in color is called erythema ab igne. While erythema ab igne usually resolves after heat therapy is stopped, a biopsy may be needed to test for precancerous cells. Finally, excessive alcohol consumption or dehydration in a sauna can lead to unconsciousness, resulting in severe burns that break down muscle tissue and increase the risk of kidney damage. Decreased blood pressure. After a single session of heat therapy, blood pressure drops. Because of the sudden drop in blood pressure, people who often suffer from orthostatic hypotension (dizziness or light-headedness when standing up) may find certain heat treatments problematic.

After a single session of heat therapy, blood pressure drops. Because of the sudden drop in blood pressure, people who often suffer from orthostatic hypotension (dizziness or light-headedness when standing up) may find certain heat treatments problematic. Increased heart rate. The heart has to work faster to keep up with the increased blood flow to the heated area. The increased heart rate will return to baseline once heat treatment is removed or stopped. The changes in heart rate during and after therapy can pose significant risks for people with cardiovascular diseases such as arrhythmia.

The heart has to work faster to keep up with the increased blood flow to the heated area. The increased heart rate will return to baseline once heat treatment is removed or stopped. The changes in heart rate during and after therapy can pose significant risks for people with cardiovascular diseases such as arrhythmia. Increased swelling and inflammation. Heat therapy is not recommended immediately after physical activity, after injury, or during an infection. Heat worsens pain and prolongs healing if used when tissue is damaged or infected.

Risks can be more or less worrying at different times of the year. For example, blood pressure is inherently lower in summer, so orthostatic hypotension or other cardiac events are more likely to occur in warmer weather.

Additional risks of heat therapy may exist as this list is not exhaustive. Many of the potential risks can be mitigated provided heat therapy is performed for the suggested duration.

advertisement

7 possible contraindications for heat therapy

It is important to assess general condition before applying the variety of heat treatments publicly available. For example, a swollen or injured lower back warrants an ice or cold pack to reduce swelling rather than a heat pack. Moderate to intense exercise requires a minimum of 4 hours separation from the application of heat therapy. In addition, certain conditions that make the skin more sensitive, such as For example, rule out heat therapy—or certain types of heat therapy—as a recommended option. Consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about these contraindications.

The application of heat is considered inappropriate in the presence of the following health conditions:

1. Dermatitis

Skin diseases such as contact dermatitis or eczema can be triggered by high temperatures and low humidity, so that dry heat therapy in particular can lead to flare-ups. Rashes usually fade within 2 to 3 weeks when heat therapy is stopped and treatment for dermatitis is used.

2. Deep vein thrombosis

A blood clot that develops in a vein can block blood flow back to the heart. Although a heating pad is usually recommended as part of the treatment, the heat actually increases the swelling and therefore the pain. Increased blood flow from heat therapy can also force the clot to break loose and enter vital organs like the brain or lungs, where the clot can cause serious damage.

3. Chronic heart failure

Heart disease, such as chronic heart failure, impairs the body’s ability to increase blood flow and sweating in response to heat. This weakened reaction can worsen heart diseases up to high blood pressure. Patients with cardiovascular problems need to gradually reduce body temperature after heat therapy. For example, a cool shower after a sauna session is better than jumping into an ice bath.

4. Diabetes

High temperatures dehydrate the body and increase blood sugar levels. Alternatively, increased blood flow from heat therapy delivers more glucose to the muscles, thereby lowering the level of glucose in the blood itself. The impact of heat on blood sugar can have significant negative consequences for patients with diabetes. However, research indicates that global warming, for example in a warm room, has a positive effect on the healing of diabetic ulcers.

5. Peripheral vascular disease

This condition is sometimes called peripheral artery disease and can be made worse by heat. However, research suggests that frequent spa bathing can lower resting blood pressure and improve the ability to walk long distances.

advertisement

6. Open wound

Although injuries generally benefit from heat therapy, heat applied to open wounds increases blood flow to the wound and possibly bleeding.

7. Severe cognitive impairment

Dementia can affect the memory of turning off a heat product or remembering how long it has been since you went to a sauna. It is also important to note that heat therapy is not always compatible with alcohol consumption, which has resulted in rare cases of sauna-related deaths.

Patients with any of these conditions can discuss the risks of moderate heat therapy, as well as safer alternatives, with a doctor.

Find out more about the early treatment of back pain