manage lower back pain

Use Heat therapy to Reduce Lower Back Pain

Warmth and heat have been associated for a long time with comfort and also relaxation. On the other hand, heat therapy goes further and can relieve many types of pains, such as lower back pain.

Heat therapy for the lower back can be used in various ways, such as heat pads, hot baths, and warm gel packs, etc., which is inexpensive and easy to do.

This article will explain how to apply heat to reduce pain, especially in the lower back area.

How heat therapy works:

Lower back muscle strain usually happens due to strains and over-exertions, creating tension in the muscles and soft tissues around the lower back spine. As result, the circulation in that area will be affected, and body send a pain signal to brain.

Muscle spasm in the lower back can create pain that can be identified from mild to high, and heat therapy and applying heat can be a very effective method to reduce pain.

Applying heat pads can relieve the pain in the lower back through different mechanisms.

  1. Heat therapy dilates the blood vessels of the muscles surrounding the lumbar spine. Applying heat pads can increase the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, helping to heal the damaged tissue.
  2. Heat pad stimulates the sensory receptors in the skin, decreasing pain signal transmission to the brain and reducing discomfort.
  3. Also, it will reduce stiffness around soft tissues by stretching them. Compared to other options, heat therapy is inexpensive, and it can be used easily. Heat pads can be applied almost anywhere. Use them at work, home or  almost anywhere with a microwave.

Also, heat therapy is more effective when combined with other treatments such as physical therapy and exercise.