Thermacare heating bands can temporarily relieve muscle pain, sprains and menstrual cramps. However, before resorting to thermotherapy, you need to know how to use them and be sure to use them in the right way. Proper activation and application will allow you to make effective use of it.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Apply the Heating Wrap
Step 1. Discard the band 30 minutes before use
The ingredients contained in the Thermacare heating bands must be exposed to air in order to activate them. Once the package is opened, the product begins to heat up immediately, reaching its maximum temperature within half an hour. If you apply it too soon, you will limit its exposure to the air and slow down its heating.
- Do not put it in the microwave oven and do not try to raise the temperature in any way, otherwise there is a risk that it will spoil and catch fire.
- If it does not warm up within 30 minutes, it may be that it has already taken some air and is no longer effective. Throw it away and open another one.
Step 2. Clean and dry the area you intend to apply it to
Dirt, humidity, creams and cosmetic products prevent the band from adhering properly, with the risk of it coming off, compromising the treatment.
Step 3. Decide if you want to use the Wrap over a garment
If you are over 55 or are particularly sensitive to heat, you can apply it to light clothing, such as underwear. Another alternative is to place a thin cloth on the area to be treated before attaching it.
Step 4. Place the thermal cells on the affected area
Thermacare heating bands are composed of thermal cells that are clearly visible on the internal and external surface of the product. The darker side is the one that must be in contact with the skin. Therefore, before attaching the band, be sure to target the darker cells on the sore area.
Step 5. Remove the paper covering the sticky side and gently adhere the band
Do not press the adhesive tabs hard on the skin if you are not sure if you have positioned the band in the precise place. Here are some indications for each type of thermal wrap:
- For the lower back and pelvis, turn the fascia over and center the section containing the cells on the painful spot by helping to extend the fins.
- For the neck, wrist or shoulder, just center it on the sore area and wrap the tabs as if you were applying a band-aid.
- For the knee and elbow, bend the joint and place the inner side of the band over the knee or elbow before wrapping the adhesive strips around the joint.
- Menstrual pain warming bands are not applied directly to the skin, but to the inner side of the underwear. Then stick the product on the garment that will cover the affected area and put it all on.
Step 6. Tightly secure the band once in place
Rub the adhesive tabs on your skin so they stick tightly. This way, the product will not come off during use.
Step 7. Hold the band for up to 8 hours
Thermacare products are formulated to be used under clothing and can release their action during normal physical activity. At a certain point, the active ingredients contained within are exhausted and the band begins to cool, losing its effectiveness. Do not try to reheat it in the microwave or in any other way.
Once its action is exhausted, you can throw it in your normal unsorted household waste
Step 8. Check the skin
You should check the skin reaction in the area under the fascia every couple of hours to rule out any redness or irritation. If the skin is red or irritated or the pain increases, discontinue use immediately and consult your doctor if symptoms do not go away.
If the irritation is mild, try introducing a thin layer of tissue between the band and the skin
Part 2 of 2: Deciding Whether to Use the Warming Band
Step 1. Determine if you need a heating band
These products serve to temporarily relieve soreness due to muscle overload, inflammation caused by strain on the joints of the spine, arms and legs and cramps associated with the menstrual cycle. Heat therapy triggers a soothing action, but does not help the body heal injuries. You should therefore consult a doctor to understand which treatments are best suited in case of wounds or worsening pain.
Since Thermacare wraps are applied to clean, dry skin, they cannot be used on areas where you have previously applied a therapeutic cream or ointment, otherwise they will not adhere properly
Step 2. Make sure you buy the right product for your needs
Not all types of heating bands can be applied to every part of the body. Thermacare offers products intended for specific use. The varieties currently available on the market are:
- For the lower back and pelvis.
- For elbow and knee.
- For neck, wrist and shoulder.
- For menstrual pain and lower abdomen.
- Multifunctional, to be used on any part of the back, arms and legs.
Step 3. Try using the band during the first day
This way you can monitor your body's reaction to heat and see if irritation develops or if the malaise gets worse. If you notice an actual improvement in pain, you can consider keeping it overnight.
Warnings
- If you have any health problems, such as diabetes or poor circulation, consult your doctor before using this product.
- Do not wear the band for more than 8 hours a day (12 for pain associated with arthritis). Prolonged use can increase the risk of irritation.
