Moist-Heat Therapy

Moist-heat therapy has been used in pain relief for centuries, as evidenced by the sweat baths of native populations. Recent research has shown that the benefits of moist heat, as opposed to dry radiant heat from electric heating pads, are real and measurable in relieving lower-back pain. The action of the moisture pushes heat deep into muscles more actively than dry heat can.

Researchers underscore the idea that the old hot-water bottles were invented for good reason. Cold muscles contract. Warm muscles relax, become more fluid, and stretch more easily and healthily. Moist-heat therapy is therefore ideal for sore, achy muscles caused by moderate sports activity and pain resulting from demanding or awkward movements, such as those used in gardening.

Moist-Heat Therapy Is Indicated for a Variety of Aches

The gentle action of moist-heat therapy is safe and effective as treatment for:

• Vigorous or extensive exercise or overactivity, such as heavy lifting
• Joint and muscle pain due to osteoarthritis
• Sinus pain
• Muscle cramps
• Any soreness to which moist-heat therapy can conveniently be applied

New moist-heat wraps allow the patient to fasten the apparatus directly to the painful area, using Velcro tabs or string ties. These packs are activated in a microwave oven and stay hot for up to 60 minutes. Doctors may suggest alternating heat therapy with ice if an injury has caused inflammation. Moist-heat therapy helps to avoid the use of painkillers and can be used with other treatments or following surgery. Physicians at the Bonati Institute for Advanced Spine Surgery recommend this self-care procedure to relieve mild muscular or joint pain.