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- Whether you're looking for pain relief, relaxation, or a bit of both, you need the best heating pad for the job.
- The Sunbeam XpressHeat Heating Pad heats up fast, has several features, and affordably priced.
Many people turn to heating pads for fast relief from aches and pains. Maybe you're a bit sore after a long day at work or a tough session at the gym, or you simply need a reprieve from those persistent aches and pains. Heating pads are generally safe, affordable, and effective, and can provide relief within minutes. The best heating pads tend to have user-friendly controls, comfortable materials, and a wide range of temperature settings. However, several other factors can help you decide which heating pad is right for you.
A common concern is that you'll fall asleep with the heating pad on, increasing your risk of burns or skin irritation. To combat this issue, most heating pads today automatically shut off. Many models on this list have a limit of 2 hours, although you can override this feature in at least one of the heating pads listed below. Most heating pads also have a variety of temperature settings. Generally speaking, you'll find a wider range of temperatures (and settings) on pricier heating pads.
If you're concerned about pain relief, you'll want to look at heating pads that provide moist and dry heat therapy. According to PT Health, one of the main advantages of moist heat therapy is that the heat penetrates skin faster and easier, delivering fast relief right to the muscles. In fact, studies have shown that pain is reduced faster when using moist heat versus dry heat. In contrast, dry heat can provide a more consistent temperature for a longer stretch of time. Many heating pads come with a foam insert that can be moistened for fast and effective moist heat therapy.
Some heating pads qualify as eligible flex spending account (FSA) expenses, so if you have funds to use up, a heating pad is an option to consider.
Here are the best heating pads you can buy in 2019:
- Best heating pad overall: Sunbeam XpressHeat Heating Pad
- Best value heating pad: Mighty Bliss Large Electric Heating Pad
- Best budget heating pad: Up & Up Heating Pad
- Best heating pad for neck and shoulders: Pure Enrichment PureRelief Neck and Shoulder Heating Pad
- Best heating pad for pain relief: UTK Far Infrared Natural Jade Heating Pad
Read on in the slides below to check out our top picks.
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