Moist Heating Pad Instructions

People around the world use moist heat for muscle relaxation and healing. According to a study by doctors O'Connor and McCarberg at the American Pain Society, portable sources of heat relieve the patient's discomfort throughout the day and promote healing. Applying a moist heating pad to your skin stimulates blood circulation and promotes tissue repair in the damaged muscles and joints without dehydrating your skin. Using a moist heating pad is easy, but does require you to follow a few basic instructions to prevent injury and optimize healing.

Things You'll Need

• 2 clean large hand towels

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Instructions

• 1

  Soak your hand towel in water. Prevent dripping by wringing out the excess liquid. Fold the towel over twice and lay it on a microwavable surface in the microwave. Set the microwave to high for 2 minutes or until the towel is steaming.

• 2

  Remove the hot towel and make sure the entire towel is heated by gently touching along the edges and center. If the towel is too hot wait a minute to avoid burning your skin.

• 3

  Apply the moistened, heated towel directly to your affected muscles. Lock in the moist heat by covering the towel with a sheet of plastic wrap after placing it on your body. Keep your heat pad in place by lying down or sitting still for 10 to 15 minutes or until the towel begins feeling cool.