The first thing to remember about heat therapy is when NOT to use it. This is in cases when there is swelling and/or bruising. In such cases application of heat is not a good idea, it is better to first apply cold therapy and switch to heat only after the swelling has subsided. It is best to consult the doctor to know when heat is going to be most beneficial.

Heat therapy has been used since time immemorial to alleviate pain. A period of extended application of heat can reduce the discomfort caused by pain. This is so because heat increases blood flow, thus reducing stiffness and relaxing sore spots. In other words, heat applied to back pain can help relieve the pain. It is an inexpensive remedy and readily available, whether you use heated compresses, heating pads, hot water bottles or one of the numerous other forms available. In addition, it is easy to do, it is something you can carry around with you, for example, you can take your heating pad to work, and it is low cost such as taking a warm soak in the tub.

The application of heat is especially beneficial in cases when back pain is due to a muscle spasm in the lower back. These episodes generally occur due to strains, and over exertion and in some cases from stress. In such cases heat therapy is the most practical recourse. When heat is applied, the flow of blood in the vessels increases. This in itself is very relaxing. In addition, the muscles and other tissues in the affected area also relax. Both of these help to comfort and ease the pain and make for easier movement. However, it is important to know that you cannot play “doctor" all the time. In most cases, a visit to the doctor is necessary, especially if the pain is accompanied by other conditions, such as loss of bowel control, diarrhea, and other unusual symptoms.

Heat therapy is the preferred form of treatment is cases where the pain is chronic but there is no inflammation. It is used in cases of unrelieved pain due to sore muscles and other athletic causes. It is a good idea to apply heat before beginning your exercises, as it is a good way of loosening the muscles. Nevertheless, the warm up phase of exercising cannot be ignored or by-passed.

Like any treatment plan, certain precautions must be taken while using heat treatment too. Firstly, do not use heat if the injury or pain accompanies an inflammation or swelling and bruising. In such cases heat is not to be applied. Secondly, do not apply heat for periods longer than 15-20minutes at a time. Overheating causes a whole new set of problems. Moreover, make sure that the skin is well protected against burning effects of heat. You don’t want to have to nurse an awkward burn along with the pain in the lower back. Also, when using a heating pad, make sure you turn it off before you fall asleep. Leaving it on can cause overheating and could also be a fire hazard. It is always a good idea to use moist heat rather than dry heat and if your pain does not subside within 2 days, you must see a doctor.