How to Make a Reusable Hot Compress

Reusable hot compresses are practical items to have around the house. They come in two varieties: moist and dry. Used in hydrotherapy, moist hot compresses can deliver essential oils, clear blocked glands around the eyelids, relieve tension headaches and clear blocked sinuses. Dry hot compresses are similar to small heating pads in that they deliver dry heat to small areas of the body. These compresses are effective at relieving pain associated with menstrual periods, sciatica, arthritis and injuries.

Things You'll Need

• Hand towel
• Athletic sock
• Rice
• Dish towel

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Instructions

Moist Compress

• 1

  Soak a hand towel in hot water. The water should be at the same temperature as your shower or bath. Thick towels will absorb more water and heat than thinner towels.

• 2

  Fold the towel in quarters and wring out the excess water.

• 3

  Place the towel on the affected area. When it becomes cool, flip it over. When all sides of the towel have cooled off, re-soak the towel in hot water.

Dry Compress

• 4

  Take an old, clean athletic sock. Make sure that there are no holes in the sock.

• 5

  Fill the sock with uncooked rice. Leave about six inches at the ankle of the sock empty.

• 6

  Tie the end of the sock by making a loop and passing the free end through the loop.

• 7

  Microwave the rice-filled sock for approximately two minutes. Place the sock on the injured area of the body. To avoid burns, position a dish towel between your skin and the sock.