Fighting fixed aches? Reasonably than heading straight for these ache meds, contemplate a heating pad.
“Warmth remedy is a extremely popular and efficient technique for managing acute and persistent ache, musculoskeletal accidents and even menstrual cramps,” explains Simran Malhotra, MD, DipABLM, CHWC, board-certified doctor and founding father of Wellness By Life-style MD. “It really works via growing blood movement and circulation to the realm, enjoyable muscle groups, lowering stiffness and altering our ache receptors. Warmth remedy can [also] scale back stress by enjoyable the physique, which finally might enhance sleep and high quality of life.” Plus, not like many different ache therapies, heating pads present reduction with minimal threat of great negative effects.
Elizabeth C. Gardner, MD, YSM orthopedic surgeon and head group doctor for Yale Athletics, recommends warmth remedy earlier than exercises, as it will possibly scale back muscle stiffness and enhance flexibility.
With choices from easy rice packs to superior infrared units, there’s a heating pad for each want. Electrical variations supply adjustable temperatures and are available in several sizes, whereas infrared ones are usually extra expensive however might supply deeper reduction for extreme ache.
To assist slim issues down, we spoke to 4 specialists, researched over 20 manufacturers and examined 13 merchandise. Listed below are our prime picks of the perfect heating pads of 2024.
Finest total heating pad
Dimensions: 24 inches x 12 inches | Corded/cordless: corded | # of warmth settings: 6 | Auto shutoff: sure | Particular options: LCD controller, micro plush material, storage bag
From achy legs to persistent low again ache, the Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL Heating Pad is a flexible electrical heating pad that will not break the financial institution.
The pad is snug and simple to make use of, due to its machine-washable micro plush material, extra-long twine, six warmth settings and LCD controller. Throughout testing, I used to be impressed by how shortly it heated up — beneath 30 seconds — and the way evenly the warmth was distributed all through the pad.
One 5-star reviewer says, “That is probably the most wonderful heating pad ever… Heats shortly (simply seconds after plugging in)… The management is straightforward to make use of… You may select the auto off characteristic (turns off in 2hrs) or select ‘keep on’… It has 6 warmth settings… however you will most likely discover #3 will likely be satisfactory heat… I selected the inexperienced… Very good coloration and so smooth too. … I favored it a lot I purchased one other one in blue…”
I like a excessive degree of warmth, particularly on my again and hips. Regardless of providing six warmth settings, I by no means needed to go increased than degree 4 to really feel reduction. Whereas this pad is designed for the complete physique, I discovered it awkward when used on my neck and shoulders. And for decrease again ache, I did not prefer it fairly as a lot as a number of the wearable choices I attempted.
When you’d moderately not buy a number of site-specific heating pads, this can be a strong, versatile choice that covers numerous floor.
- Intuitive LCD controller simplifies choosing most well-liked warmth setting
- Further-long twine
- Included storage bag
- Comfy and machine-washable micro plush material
- Heats up shortly and evenly
- 5-year producer’s guarantee
- Not the perfect match for neck and shoulder ache
- Requires an influence outlet
Extra heating pads we like in 2024
Dimensions: 12 inches x 7.5 inches | Corded/cordless: cordless | # of warmth settings: none | Auto shutoff: no | Particular options: included knitted cowl
The Attmu Hot Water Bottle with Knitted Cover gives a traditional, efficient — and inexpensive — approach to soothe sore muscle groups.
In contrast to conventional scorching water bottles, this selection is made out of a recyclable thermoplastic materials that retains warmth for longer. Throughout testing, I used to be stunned by how scorching the bottle remained after half-hour, and even after three hours, it was nonetheless a lot heat.
I appreciated the huge mouth, which makes it straightforward to fill, and the fashionable knitted cowl that helps defend your pores and skin from burns. It will also be used as a chilly pack by filling it two-thirds full with water and stashing it within the freezer for just a few hours.
I discovered the new water bottle impressively versatile. Whereas it is not as contouring as another microwavable heating pad choices, it was a lot snug and secure on my decrease again. It is change into my go-to for sore ft after chasing round toddlers all day.
In keeping with on-line opinions, it is well-made and long-lasting. One reviewer states, “We’ve had ours for five years. It’s actually sturdy and stays scorching for some time.”
Whereas I’ve solely had mine for a month or so, thus far, it seems to be fairly sturdy and I have not had any points with leaks. That stated, the producer recommends changing the new water bottle each two years.
- Prices lower than $10
- Comfy knitted cowl to guard pores and skin from warmth
- Large mouth makes it straightforward to fill
- Appropriate for decent or chilly remedy
- Retains warmth longer than bean- or rice-filled microwavable pads
- Would not contour to the physique, so might transfer
- Ought to be changed each two years
Dimensions: 26 inches x 5 inches | Corded/cordless: cordless | # of warmth settings: warmth depth varies by microwave time | Auto shutoff: no | Particular options: twin cold and hot performance, weighted for further compression
One among my greatest gripes with microwavable heating pads for neck ache is that they are too quick to wrap round with out falling off or too giant and hulking to put on comfortably. Massive information: I am completely happy to report that the SunnyBay ExtraLong Neck Heat Wrap supplies complete neck assist with out being awkward to put on.
A 5-star Amazon reviewer famous, “That is severely the perfect neck wrap. It’s really easy to make use of and I like that it’s unscented. It will get so heat and feels wonderful. I like that the again is good and huge so it totally covers my neck. So value it!!”
It is barely weighted, which retains the pad in place and supplies light compression — a characteristic I did not understand I wanted, however now I do not suppose I may go with out. The mixture of warmth and compression has helped ease my neck and shoulder ache higher than different microwavable pads I’ve tried previously.
Prepared in beneath two minutes, the wrap heats up shortly and evenly. Because of its anti-pill fleece and T-shirt-like cotton, it is snug to put on. Whereas it is marketed as a neck wrap, this flaxseed-filled microwavable pad can be utilized on practically any space of your physique, at the same time as a chilly compress to assist scale back irritation.
As with all microwave heating pads, the most important bummer is that it begins cooling down nearly instantly after microwaving. The corporate claims that the wrap stays scorching for as much as half-hour. However throughout testing, it was noticeably cooler inside quarter-hour after heating and by 20 minutes, a lot of the heat had dissipated. Consider: This pad supplies moist warmth, so it leaves your neck, or wherever you employ it, a bit damp.
- Added size enhances neck consolation
- Calmly weighted for compression
- Heats up shortly and evenly
- Stays in place higher than many different microwavable wraps
- Versatile, full-body use
- Appropriate for chilly remedy
- Greater worth level than related pads
- Loses warmth noticeably after 15 to twenty minutes
Dimensions: 18 inches x 18 inches | Corded/cordless: corded | # of warmth settings: temperatures as much as 160°F | Auto shutoff: sure | Particular options: pure gems, LED show controller, timer, deep penetrating far infrared rays remedy, obtainable in different configurations and dimensions
Healthyline is a wellness firm that stands out from its rivals by together with pure gems in its infrared heating pads.
Because of its longer wavelengths, infrared heat therapy can penetrate deeper into the physique, making it simpler for soreness and persistent ache. Gems are naturally good conductors of warmth, and studies have discovered scorching stone remedy useful for musculoskeletal ache and normal leisure. The model’s merchandise mix these therapies and others in its mats to advertise deeper muscle leisure, improved circulation and elevated flexibility.
The Tao Mat is likely one of the firm’s extra inexpensive choices and an excellent place to begin for those who’re not able to spend lots of, and even 1000’s, of {dollars} on a heating mat.
The mat is aesthetically pleasing, with 4 kinds of gems studded alongside one aspect. The LED controller means that you can set the precise temperature you would like, as much as 160°F and has an auto-shutoff that may be prolonged to 12 hours for longer heating periods.
I examined the mat in a number of positions: reclining with my higher again on it, sitting on it and even utilizing it as again assist whereas working. The velcro straps let me shortly wrap it round my arm or leg, including versatility I appreciated. It was noticeably extra enjoyable than different mats I attempted, making it my go-to for unwinding, and I can see why the model’s full-length mats are so extremely rated.
- Penetrates deeper into the pores and skin for longer-lasting reduction
- In contrast to cheaper fashions on-line, the mat comprises pure gems
- Versatile and comes with a journey bag
- LED show controller means that you can set a particular temperature
- Contains timer and auto-shutoff options
- Lifetime trade-in and improve
- 90-day free trial
- 5-year guarantee
- Costly
- Takes barely longer to heat up than different fashions
- Can get heavy, particularly the bigger fashions
- Would not supply PEMF remedy
Dimensions: 23 inches x 15 inches | Corded/cordless: corded | # of warmth settings: 4 | Auto shutoff: sure | Particular options: wearable, contoured to the form of the again, machine cleanable pad, twin cold and hot performance
In contrast to the PureRadience Luxurious Heating Pad under, the Sunbeam Heating Pad Back Wrap is not notably trendy. Nonetheless, we discovered it the best for alleviating low again ache.
With a curved design that contours to your again, it is secured with an adjustable waist strap. Whereas some on-line reviewers complain that the pad would not sit flush towards their backs, I did not have any points with match. That stated, the waist strap does match tightly, which I discovered began to get uncomfortable after half-hour of use.
In contrast to different electrical heating pads, that are usually greatest utilized in a reclined place, this wearable wrap may be worn sitting or standing, simply be sure you aren’t too removed from an influence outlet.
The again wrap gives 4 warmth settings — excessive, medium, low and heat — that may be toggled utilizing the distant. I like intense warmth, and I discovered each the medium and excessive settings to be greater than satisfactory.
Whereas this wrap is not low-cost, as somebody with fixed low again ache from carrying and taking part in with my younger youngsters all day, I feel it is value each penny. Reviewers agree, with one stating, “Improbable product, nice warmth degree for ache reduction in comparison with different merchandise and really sturdy. Sunbeam hasn’t failed me but!”
- Palms-free wearable design with adjustable strap
- Simple-to-use distant
- Supplies targeted warmth reduction to the decrease again
- Moist warmth and funky remedy choices
- Machine-washable
- 5-year restricted guarantee
- Requires an influence connection
- Adjustable strap might not match comfortably
- Costly, although typically on sale
Dimensions: 31.5 inches x 24 inches | Corded/cordless: corded | # of warmth settings: 6 | Auto shutoff: sure | Particular options: fake fur full again wrap, included storage bag, LED controller
The Pure Enrichment PureRadience Back and Neck Luxury Heating Pad is crafted with an ultra-soft, fake fur material and drapes round your whole again for a heating expertise that may solely be described as a heat hug.
In contrast to the Sunbeam again wrap, this luxurious choice is designed to supply full again, neck and shoulder reduction. It cradles your shoulders and secures utilizing a magnetic closure. On the backside, there’s an adjustable waistband for a cosy match.
This wearable pad consists of six warmth settings, that are adjusted utilizing a modern, spherical distant. It is able to go proper out of the field, although, for moist warmth, you may dampen the pad with a sprig bottle earlier than turning it on.
Throughout testing, I had issue getting it to suit as tightly because the Sunbeam again wrap. For that purpose, I did not discover the warmth to be fairly as intense. Nonetheless, the temperature was nonetheless a lot excessive, and I felt the general expertise enjoyable and efficient for alleviating pressure in my again. I additionally appreciated sporting the wrap whereas sitting on the pc with out worrying about it falling off.
Simply remember the fact that the faux-fur material mixed with warmth makes this wrap very heat. Whereas I loved the heat throughout cooler mornings and might see it being good in winter, I do not understand how a lot I might use it in the summertime.
- Glossy, round LED controller that is straightforward to make use of
- Handless design that is trendy and efficient
- Comfy, full-back warmth remedy
- Moist and dry warmth remedy choices
- Storage bag included
- Machine-washable
- 5-year producer’s guarantee
- Comparatively costly
- Not as comfortable as different wraps, which some might favor
- Not meant to be used on different areas
Dimensions: 7.48 inches x 3.35 inches | Corded/cordless: cordless | # of warmth settings: 4 | Auto shutoff: no | Particular options: transportable cordless design, three vibration settings, curved
Providing a cordless, curved design, 4 warmth settings and three vibration settings, the Slimpal Heat Pad is likely one of the greatest choices for alleviating menstrual cramps.
Because of its distinctive form, the pack matches comfortably round your hips and secures simply with an adjustable strap. Turning on the pack is much less intuitive than others, however fortunately, it comes with a useful instruction booklet that explains the way to use the warmth and vibration settings.
I examined the Slimpal, together with a competitor product, through the first days of my interval, when cramps had been at their worst. Admittedly, I used to be apprehensive about how helpful a fanny pack-like heating pad can be, however I used to be pleasantly stunned by how a lot I favored it.
One 5-star reviewer says, “This transportable, cordless heating pad not solely delivers soothing warmth but in addition options light vibrations that make an enormous distinction in easing the discomfort. The mixture of warmth and vibrations works wonders, offering deep reduction that helps me get via even the hardest days.”
I meant to put on the Slimpal for simply 20 or half-hour whereas I labored. Nonetheless, it was so snug and efficient at easing my cramps that I saved it on for a lot of the morning and early afternoon whereas I sorted laundry and did different chores round the home. I’ve used it often on my decrease again once I do not need to be constrained by a plug-in heating wrap.
In comparison with the opposite transportable heating pack I attempted, the Slimpal was comfier to put on, and its warmth was extra evenly distributed. I additionally favored the intermittent vibration settings higher.
It is necessary to notice that the mannequin I examined would not include an computerized shutoff characteristic (others from the model do). In keeping with the package deal, that is intentional for individuals who need all-day warmth remedy, both for cramps or low again ache.
- Curved design for a extra snug match
- Cordless to be used on the go
- A number of warmth and vibration settings
- Efficient for each menstrual and decrease again ache
- Obtainable in a number of kinds and colours
- Belt adjusts to suit waist sizes from 24 to 57 inches
- Minimalistic show is not intuitive to make use of
- Is not as versatile as others choices
Dimensions: | Corded/cordless: cordless | # of warmth settings: n/a | Auto shutoff: no | Particular options: disposable, transportable, patches obtainable for different makes use of and websites
ThermaCare is a well known and trusted model for on-the-go reduction. The corporate’s single-use patches and wraps are site-specific, with choices for neck, joint, muscle and menstrual ache. They’re straightforward to use and obtainable at most nationwide chains, together with Goal and Walmart.
Every single-use patch is individually packaged, making them handy for stashing in your health club bag or taking up trip. To activate, merely tear open the pouch, peel away the paper and place the adhesive aspect both straight in your pores and skin or over a layer of clothes. The patches may be worn for as much as eight hours and are discarded after use.
Throughout testing, I discovered the patches straightforward to use to my shoulder. The field states that the patches can take as much as half-hour to achieve therapeutic temperature however I skilled a noticeable enhance in temperature inside 10 minutes.
After three hours of wear and tear, the patch remained heat, although I would not describe it as scorching. It was painless to take away, and my shoulder space felt noticeably extra relaxed. That stated, there are combined opinions on the warmth depth of ThermaCare patches. Some on-line reviewers complain that they do not get scorching sufficient, whereas others discover them too scorching.
- Moveable, disposable patches
- Simple to use
- Obtainable in a number of kinds to swimsuit a variety of makes use of, together with wraps for shoulders and again
- Broadly obtainable at grocery shops, Goal and Walmart
- Blended opinions on warmth depth
- Can take as much as half-hour to achieve therapeutic temperature
Kinds of heating pads
You will discover a wide selection of choices designed for various wants, preferences and kinds of reduction. Right here’s a breakdown of the primary varieties:
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Electrical: Because the identify implies, electrical heating pads use electrical energy to warmth. Most must be plugged into an influence supply, although some are cordless and use rechargeable batteries. Chiropractor and osteopath Liza Egbogah, BSc, DC, DOMP says: “I usually suggest an electrical heating pad since you may set them to the extent of warmth required. The heating with electrical heating pads can be extra evenly distributed.” They arrive in varied configurations and dimensions, together with blankets and wraps, and usually assist you to alter the temperature. Some embody built-in massagers.
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Microwavable: From old-school scorching water bottles to snuggly stuffed animals, microwavable heating pads are handy as a result of they do not require an outlet. These heating pads are usually stuffed with rice, seeds or clay beans, which change into scorching when microwaved. Some pads additionally embody, or assist you to add, important oils “for a spa-like expertise,” explains Egbogah. Do not forget that these merchandise can quiet down comparatively shortly and will not distribute warmth as evenly in comparison with different kinds of pads.
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Chemical (single-use): Single-use heating pads are generally known as chemical heating pads as a result of they use a chemical response to create dry warmth. These merchandise do not require an influence supply and may be simply taken on the go, making them a handy and travel-friendly heating choice. They arrive in varied configurations and dimensions primarily based on meant use and placement. Whereas some merchandise are marketed as providing as much as eight hours of reduction, others are far more short-lasting. These patches additionally get combined opinions on warmth depth.
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Gels: Gel packs include a gel and water mixture that may be heated or cooled, making them a useful 2-in-1 ache remedy choice. They seem to be a favourite of Gardner, who notes, “Gel pads are nice as a result of they will properly conform to the form of your physique, typically higher than an electrical pad. They’re additionally low-cost and handy.”
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Infrared: As defined by Gardener, infrared heating pads use infrared lights to penetrate deep beneath the pores and skin and improve blood flow within the focused space, making them choice for extreme ache. These merchandise have been proven to assist reduce inflammation and assist in muscle restoration. Whereas dear, some favor these heating pads as a result of they do not get as scorching as electrical choices and have a decrease threat of burns. Nonetheless, as a result of most merchandise value over $200, infrared heating pads aren’t probably the most economical. Gardner additionally provides, “[Infrared pads] usually require a flat floor for best use and do not simply conform to the form of your physique.”
Elements to think about when buying a heating pad
Selecting the best heating pad could make an enormous distinction in consolation and effectiveness, but it surely’s important to consider what you want most in a heating pad. Right here’s a have a look at key components to think about:
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Supposed use: A very powerful components to think about are the kind and placement of the ache as these will enable you to resolve the kind and measurement of heating pad to decide on. For instance, a contouring microwavable neck wrap may be your best choice if in case you have neck ache, whereas persistent again ache might profit from a wearable electrical pad.
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Temperature settings: Many electrical and infrared heating pads supply temperature management, a characteristic that every one our specialists agree is definitely worth the cash from a consolation and security perspective.
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Security options: When you’re searching for an electrical or infrared heating pad, you will additionally need to contemplate whether or not a product gives sure security options. In keeping with Gardener, “When buying a heating pad, it is necessary to make sure that it has both computerized shutoff or a timer.” These options may help reduce the chance of burns and the pad beginning a hearth.
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Dry vs. moist warmth: Heating pads differ in the kind of warmth they supply. Dry warmth merchandise, reminiscent of chemical (single-use) packets and plenty of electrical heating pads, typically warmth up shortly and are straightforward to make use of. Many individuals additionally like dry warmth for its speedy reduction. Nonetheless, moist-heat merchandise take longer to warmth and usually do not final as lengthy. Nonetheless, it is thought that moist warmth penetrates deeper into the pores and skin for longer-lasting reduction. Along with gel packs, you should buy microwavable and electrical moist warmth packs and wraps.
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Cowl materials: Many heating pads have covers to guard your pores and skin from direct contact with the warmth supply. Since you’ll be utilizing your pad typically, you will need to select one which feels smooth and will not irritate your pores and skin. In keeping with Nelin Krull, MS, physiotherapist and co-owner of Myofascial Launch Mississauga, a detachable and washable cowl can be useful for maintaining your heating pad in good condition for long-term use.
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Further options: Are you OK with being tethered to an outlet if it means having adjustable temperature settings? Or do you favor an on-the-go choice with a machine-washable cowl? Whether or not you need a cordless choice is a vital consideration that can assist slim down your choice. You will additionally need to contemplate whether or not different options, reminiscent of built-in massagers, twin warmth and chilly capabilities or timers, are value paying extra for.
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Value: Warmth remedy merchandise differ in worth relying on their measurement, sort, materials and particular options. Needless to say some merchandise may be bought utilizing a Versatile or Well being Financial savings Account (FSA or HSA).
How we selected
With numerous heating pad choices in the marketplace, we talked to chiropractors, osteopaths, physicians and physiotherapists to be taught what to search for and higher perceive the assorted choices.
We then scoured lots of of on-line opinions and talked with mates and households to find out which manufacturers and merchandise must be on our radar. Utilizing this data, we chosen 13 heating pads to check.
Throughout testing, pads had been used a number of instances and for at the very least half-hour a pop for 3 weeks.
The author, Kelli McGrane, is a registered dietitian, wellness journalist and busy working mother. Rising up taking part in sports activities and snowboarding, she’s no stranger to heating pads and has relied on them for years to assist soothe achy legs and infected IT bands. Extra not too long ago, after two pregnancies in three years and now two energetic toddlers to hold and chase round, McGrane’s neck and again had been greater than prepared for some TLC within the type of warmth remedy.
FAQs
How lengthy is it secure to make use of a heating pad?
It is really helpful to restrict heating pad use to fifteen or 20 minutes at a time.
Can I sleep with a heating pad?
Due to security considerations, you need to by no means go to sleep with a heating pad. Sleeping with a heating pad, particularly if it would not have an computerized turn-off characteristic, may burn your pores and skin. Moreover, electrical heating blankets can begin a hearth when left unattended and improperly shut down and saved.
What are the advantages of moist warmth remedy?
In comparison with dry warmth, moist heat penetrates into deep muscle tissue quicker. It might probably assist loosen up tight muscle groups and scale back irritation. Because of this, moist warmth is especially efficient for lowering ache, together with muscle soreness after train and bettering mobility.
How do I clear my heating pad?
Many merchandise have detachable covers that may be machine-washed and tumble-dried on low; observe the producer’s instructions. Vital: Ensure to close off an electrical heating pad and unplug the connector earlier than eradicating the quilt.
Are heating pads secure for folks with sure medical situations?
Heating pads might not be secure for these with open wounds, neuropathy, peripheral arterial illness and sure coronary heart points. Some pores and skin situations, like eczema, might worsen with publicity to dry warmth. When you have a medical situation, speak to a well being care supplier to find out whether or not warmth remedy is secure and acceptable.
Different merchandise we examined
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Geniani King Size Heating Pad: This mannequin was an in depth contender for our greatest total choose, practically tying with Pure Enrichment’s Pure Aid pad. Just like the Pure Aid, this electrical pad from Geniani incorporates a smooth, oversize design best for a number of physique areas, and it’s equally priced with a user-friendly distant. In the end, the deciding issue was the variety of warmth settings, with Geniani providing solely three ranges in comparison with Pure Enrichment’s six.
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Healthyline Portable Heated Gemstone Pad: This infrared belt is not low-cost, however for those who like the thought of gemstone remedy paired with infrared, it is definitely worth the splurge. It may be plugged into an outlet or related to a chargeable energy supply for freedom of motion. After only one use, I may really feel much less pressure in my decrease again, with reduction that lasted longer than different heating pads I attempted. If it weren’t for the excessive value, it could’ve been my choose as the perfect for low again ache.
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Yeamon Portable Cordless Heating Pad: It is a transportable electrical heating pad designed to ease menstrual and decrease again pains. Whereas we discovered it efficient in offering focused warmth, the Slimpal was total extra snug, and we discovered the Yeamon’s vibration settings to be a bit too intense and never as useful.
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SuzziPad Microwavable Heating Pad: The SuzziPad is a versatile microwavable heating pad with a double-sided material design for added consolation and warmth retention. Whereas we favored how effectively the pad contoured to the physique, its shorter size made it tougher to wrap round our tester’s neck with out falling off.
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Hyperice Venom 2: Designed to be worn round your decrease again, the Hyperice Venom pairs superior warmth expertise with vibration to assist scale back muscle pressure and knots. In keeping with tester Laura Williams, “It is a good, high-quality, well-made and efficient gadget that does what it says it can do. However its worth is excessive, and even figuring out it is a good gadget, I’m wondering if there aren’t related gadgets which might be inexpensive that might do the job nearly as effectively.”
Meet our specialists
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Liza Egbogah, BSc, DC, DOMP, chiropractor and osteopath
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Elizabeth C. Gardner MD, YSM orthopedic surgeon and head group doctor for Yale Athletics
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Nelin Krull MS, physiotherapist and co-owner of Myofascial Launch Mississauga
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Simran Malhotra MD, DipABLM, CHWC, board-certified doctor and founding father of Wellness By LifestyleMD