How to Use ThermaCare

ThermaCare is the brand name for a series of heating pads used to relieve muscle and joint pain associated with overexertion, sprains and strains. ThermaCare pads are activated through air exposure and work for approximately eight hours. According to the American Pain Society, continuous low-level heat therapy is an effective way to treat musculoskeletal pain. ThermaCare pads come in four different types to treat different areas of the body.

Instructions

Lower Back and Hip

• 1

  Open the package when you're ready to apply the pad.

• 2

  Place the pad over the area of pain so that the darker discs face your skin.

• 3

  Adjust the pad as necessary and loosely tie the unheated ends together over your stomach.

Neck, Wrist and Shoulder

• 4

  Open the package when you're ready to apply the pad.

• 5

  Peel away the paper to expose the adhesive side of the pad.

• 6

  Place the adhesive side over the pain area so it firmly attaches to your skin. Don't overlap the heat cells if you apply the pad to your wrist.

Knee and Elbow

• 7

  Open the package when you're ready to apply the pad.

• 8

  Peel the paper away to reveal the adhesive side. Using the adhesive side is optional if you have hair on your knees or your elbows.

• 9

  Bend your knee or elbow slightly (depending on where you'll apply the pad) and place the opening over your kneecap or elbow.

• 10

  Wrap the straps around your knee or elbow and fasten them.

Menstrual

• 11

  Open the package when you're ready to apply the pad.

• 12

  Peel away the paper to reveal the adhesive side.

• 13

  Attach the pad over your underwear so it's not touching your skin directly.