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Uses & Cautions of Thermacare Heat Wraps

ThermaCare provides a way for consumers to use heat therapy for the relief of common aches and pains. The American Pain Society advocates heat therapy as a "frequent treatment for pain disorders." The air activated heat wrap emits a constant supply of low-level heat to areas of the body such as the lower back, neck, wrists, knees and abdomen for up to eight hours. The American Pharmaceutical Association encourages people to use caution when using ThermaCare Heat Wraps to avoid skin irritation or injury.

  1. General Uses

    • ThermaCare's product line of heat wraps target areas related to tense aching muscles, joint pain and menstrual cramps. The wraps are intended to reduce muscle tension such as in the lower back to allow for increased flexibility and mobility. The wrap emits low-level heat to relieve and soothe joint pain such as in wrists and knees. For pain associated with menstrual cramping, contoured ThermaCare heat wraps provide comfort to the abdomen or back.

    Poor Blood Circulation

    • People with poor blood circulation should be cautious when using the heat wrap. Poor blood circulation lowers body heat, especially in the body's extremities, and may deter one's ability to discern proper regulation of the product. A few diseases associated with poor blood circulation are diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure and heart disease. People with these diseases or others that may cause poor blood circulation should use the ThermaCare heat wrap with caution.

    Sensitive Skin

    • The ThermaCare heat wrap emits a low-level heat, however it may burn or blister people with sensitive skin. To avoid severe skin irritation, wear the heat wrap only during the daytime. Do not use the wrap at bedtime or when sleeping. The appearance of slight redness to the skin is normal, but shouldn't increase over time. If redness increases, immediately remove the wrap until the redness disappears completely. Regulate the wrap's temperature by wearing the heat wrap for less time, with more breathable clothing, or with a thin cloth between the wrap and the skin.

    Children and Elderly

    • People, such as children or the elderly, who are unable to remove or maneuver the ThermaCare heat wrap on their own in the event of skin irritation, shouldn't use the product. Those who are bedridden or are susceptible to skin ulcers also shouldn't use the product for the same reasons.

    Bruises and Swelling

    • Do not place the ThermaCare heat wrap on areas of the body with new bruises or swelling. The heat from the product may cause additional harm to the injury. If the injury is over two days old, it is acceptable to use the heat wrap with caution.

    Pregnant Women

    • Women who are pregnant shouldn't place the product on their abdomens without the consent of their physician.

    Transdermal Medication

    • Do not use the ThermaCare heat wrap in conjunction with medicated lotions, creams or ointments or any other transdermal medication system, as the combination is likely to increase the risk of a skin reaction.

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