Hot packs, hot baths, moist warm towels, heating pads, water bottles and infared lamps are often used to help raise the temperature of soft tissues directly below the surface of the skin.

Heat applied to the surface of the skin enlarges blood vessels below the surface, relaxing tissues and temporarily relieving painful symptoms. Increasing circulation and relaxing muscles is helpful before or after chiropractic manipulation, exercises, and other treatments.

Heat is usually recommended for the relaxation of tissues in spasm and temporary relief of the symptoms associated with chronic pain and muscle spasms. Treatments are most effective when they last 15-20 minutes.

Using heat to calm tissues suffering from long term spasm or irritation is an easy way to increase flexibility, range of motion, and promote increased circulation to speed the healing process.

Consult your doctor before the self-administration of any therapy.