My daughter worked for a chiropractor for several years before moving out of state, and during that time I established a good relationship with the Dr. and his staff. The office manager is still a very good friend, and when she recommended a different kind of heating pad for my whiplash, I immediately trusted her advice.
I have already purchased two other products from this Dr.’s office, a water pillow and a product called BioFreeze. I love both of those products, and was very anxious to give this Theratherm heating pad a try.
I fell on the ice a week ago and ended up with slight whiplash and a lot of neck pain. Soon the muscle spasms had moved from my neck area down to the rest of my back, but this heating pad sure helps!
Description
Unlike any other heating pad I have used, this has a very unique shape that makes using it a pleasure.
The pad is a large “U” shape. It rests on the back of my neck, and the pad extends over the front of my shoulders. This great design allows it to remain in place on it’s own! If you’ve ever tried to keep an ordinary rectangular shaped heating pad on your neck or shoulders, I’m sure you’ll agree it’s not the easiest thing to do!
This pad measures 23″ by 20″, and the pads extend in the front past my breast bone. The cord and controller also extends out from the front section, so it’s very easy to change or moderate the temperature.
The switch is digital, and allows you to set it to the desired temperature. It is adjustable from 88-166 degrees, and you can program the length of your treatment for up to an hour. It automatically shuts off when the desired time has elapsed. It also features a lockout mode so that your programmed instructions won’t accidentally change.
Unlike my other heating pads, this particular pad provides moist heat. The unit has a cotton flannel cover, and although I don’t understand how it works, the literature states that the cover absorbs moisture from the air and then it’s heated up by the unit itself. As it heats, the moisture then penetrates into the skin.
My Experience
Until now, I depended on a homemade neck and shoulder device to provide soothing heat to my sore muscles. I purchased this at a bazaar a few years ago, and it’s shaped the same as this heating pad, but it’s filled with rice and herbs and needs to be heated up in the microwave. It feels great initially, but loses it’s heat after 5-10 minutes and needs to be reheated again and again.
Using the Theratherm takes some getting used to. Although the literature says the heat is accurate to a plus or minus 2 degrees, it is easy to get this too hot. You need to find a temperature that works best for you.
My Chiropractor uses this device fro heat therapy in his office. Heat improves the circulation, bringing beneficial oxygen to the sore muscles. It helps to relax the muscles and reduces stiffness and pain.
This heating pad can be quite expensive but luckily I was able to get it at cost. I believe it retails for around $80.00. I don’t know if I would spend that kind of money on a heating pad, but I have no doubt that this pad works well and has improved my neck soreness and muscle spasms.
