Far infrared heating pads have become a popular choice for those seeking relief from muscle pain, tension and stress. These pads use far infrared radiation, a type of electromagnetic radiation that penetrates deep into the skin and tissues, to generate heat and provide therapeutic benefits. When used correctly, the head can be a safe and effective way to diminish inflammation and pain associated with conditions such as arthritis, muscle pains and menstrual cramps without the need for medication or surgery.
Far infrared heating pads for pain are available in various sizes and shapes, making them suitable for different parts of the body. While choosing one can be overwhelming, in this article we have researched and tested several far infrared heating pads to identify the best ones on the market. We will provide an in-depth analysis of each product, including its features, pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Far Infrared Heating Pad VS Near Infrared Heating Pad
There are two types of infrared heating pads: Far infrared (FIR) and Near infrared (NIR). Both work by using a specific wavelength of light to penetrate the skin and heat the tissue underneath. While both infrared heating pads have its benefits, they also have different features that may depend upon your needs.
Far infrared heating pads are the most penetrating and are often used for deep tissue massage. They tend to penetrate deeper, making them ideal for chronic pain. On the other hand, near infrared heating pads are known to boost collagen production. They are also better suited for superficial heating and can be used to increase blood circulation and muscle relaxation.
Top 3 Far Infrared Heating Pads
If you’re suffering from chronic pain, muscle soreness or just need to relax after a long day, a far infrared heating pad may be just what you need. Keep reading as we’ve compiled a list of the best far infrared heating pads for pain relief to help you find the perfect one for your needs.
Pure Enrichment® PureRelief® Pro Far Infrared XL Heating Pad
- UNLIKE OTHER HEATING PADS: Our innovative InfraWave Technology offers an advanced level of treatment. The heat-retaining ceramic beads send safe, far infrared wavelengths below the skin’s surface to target sore spots and penetrate muscles more deeply than traditional heating pads.
- POWERFUL RECOVERY: Far infrared heat therapy temporarily relieves chronic pain, inflammation, menstrual cramps, minor muscle and joint pain, stiffness, arthritis pain, muscle spasms, and provides exceptional back pain relief. It’s all designed to help increase blood flow, improve range of motion, and provide a natural, drug-free alternative to prescription pain medication.
- EXTRA-LARGE SIZE: The spacious, 12” x 24” size provides ample coverage for using the far infrared heating pad on your arms, neck, back, abdomen, legs, and more. The ultra-soft, micromink fabric comes in a unique, designer wave pattern that looks as luxurious as it feels.
The Pure Enrichment® PureRelief® Pro Far Infrared XL Heating Pad is an excellent option for anyone looking for a drug-free alternative to prescription pain medication. Its powerful infrared heat therapy temporarily relieves chronic pain, inflammation, menstrual cramps, minor muscle and joint pain, stiffness, arthritis pain, muscle spasms, and back pain relief.
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Has a spacious 12” x 24” size for ample coverage on the arms, neck, back, abdomen, legs and more. Delivers targeted warmth 5 minutes faster than the leading competitors. Has an auto shut-off timer to prevent overheating after 2 hours of continuous use. The ultra-soft, micromink fabric has a unique and luxurious design. | The fluffy cover may be difficult to clean. It is fairly weighty, which may make it difficult to use for extended periods. May not get as hot as some users would prefer. |
This far infrared heating pad’s technology offers an advanced level of treatment for your relief needs. Its heat-retaining ceramic beads send safe, far infrared wavelengths below the skin’s surface to target sore spots and penetrate muscles more deeply than traditional heating pads. Not only does its extra-large size provide ample coverage for various parts of the body, but it delivers warmth quickly. It also comes in a unique and luxurious design, making it appealing to everyone.
However, using the Pure Enrichment® PureRelief® Pro Far Infrared XL Heating Pad may be difficult to clean in case body oils get on it. Some users have also reported that it does not get as hot as they would prefer, which may limit its effectiveness. Additionally, it is fairly weighty, which may make it difficult to use for extended periods.
UTK Heating Pad for Back
- FULL BODY VERSATILITY: perfect for treating sore muscles in your back, shoulder, abdomen, legs, arms, etc.
- MORE EFFECTIVE / DEEPER PENETRATING / LONGER LASTING INFRARED HEAT.
- NATURAL JADE and TOURMALINE: Keep Heating stay for a much longer time period, emit negative ions and far infrared heat therapy, Low EMF.
Are you looking for a natural, drug-free way to relieve pain and inflammation? If so, the UTK Heating Pad for Back has become a top option for those suffering from muscle soreness and tension.
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The natural jade and tourmaline stones provide deeper and longer-lasting infrared heat for pain relief. Has a smart controller with timer and temperature settings, auto shut off, and memory function. The full-body versatility of the pad makes it perfect for treating sore muscles in various areas of the body. | The heating pad takes some time to warm up, and the recommended heating time is at least 30 minutes. The temperature can be set above 100°F, which may be too hot for some users. The heating pad is relatively heavy, making it difficult to move around. |
This heating pad has natural jade and tourmaline stones to provide deeper and longer-lasting infrared heat, which helps to relieve muscle soreness and tension. It has a smart controller with timer and temperature settings, as well as auto shut off and memory functions that are safe and easy to use.
The downside to this heating pad is that it may take some time to warm up. It is recommended to heat up for at least 30 minutes, however some users may find its temperature too hot as it can be set above 100°F. It is also relatively heavy, making it difficult to move from one place to another.
Pure Enrichment® PureRelief® Pro Far Infrared Universal Heat Wrap
- UNLIKE OTHER HEATING PADS: Our innovative InfraWave Technology offers an advanced level of treatment. The heat-retaining ceramic beads send safe, far infrared wavelengths below the skin’s surface to target sore spots and penetrate muscles more deeply than traditional heating pads.
- POWERFUL RECOVERY: Far infrared heat therapy temporarily relieves chronic pain, inflammation, menstrual cramps, minor muscle and joint pain, stiffness, arthritis pain, muscle spasms, and provides exceptional back pain relief. It’s all designed to help increase blood flow, improve range of motion, and provide a natural, drug-free alternative to prescription pain medication.
- FLEXIBLE DESIGN: Easy to evenly distribute the far infrared heat along your lower back, abdomen, legs, knees, arms, neck, shoulders, and more. The ultra-soft, micromink fabric comes in a unique, designer wave pattern that looks as luxurious as it feels.
Back pain is one of the world’s biggest health problems and its detrimental effects can cost a great amount of money to society and individuals. According to a 2006 study, infrared heat therapy was demonstrated to be an effective way to reduce chronic low back pain with no adverse effects. With that being said, the Pure Enrichment® PureRelief® Pro Far Infrared Universal Heat is a budget-friendly far infrared heating pad that can provide exceptional back pain relief.
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Targets sore spots and penetrates muscles more deeply than traditional heating pads. Has four heat settings from 110-140℉. Has an auto shut-off timer to prevent overheating after 2 hours of continuous use. Temporarily relieves chronic pain, inflammation, menstrual cramps, minor muscle and joint pain, stiffness, arthritis pain, muscle spasms, and back pain relief. The ultra-soft, micromink fabric has a unique and luxurious design. Has a 5-year warranty. | The cord/power cable connector is in a very awkward spot. The stitching on the buckle may come undone after a few months of use. The return window is limited, so you may need to contact the manufacturer if you encounter any issues. |
This heating pad has four heat settings from 110-140℉ to find the temperature that can effectively soothe your muscles. The auto shut-off timer prevents the electric heating pad from overheating after 2 hours of continuous use to conserve energy and offer safe, worry-free use. The flexible design makes it easy to evenly distribute the far infrared heat along your lower back, abdomen, legs, knees, arms, neck, shoulders and more.
For a faster and deeper heat penetration, you may try moist heat. Pat one side of the wrap with water from a cloth or use a spray bottle to apply a fine mist. Do not spray or dampen the connector.
Some users may find its cord/power cable connector in an awkward place and the stitching on the buckle may come undone after a few months of use. It’s worth noting that the return window is limited, so you may need to contact the manufacturer if you encounter any issues. However, for peace of mind, the Pure Enrichment® PureRelief® Pro Far Infrared Universal Heat Wrap offers a 5-year warranty and customer support 7 days a week.
How to Choose the Best Far Infrared Heating Pad
When looking for the best far infrared heating pad, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to keep in mind when making your purchase:
- Size and Shape: Consider the area of your body that you want to target and choose a pad that will cover that area comfortably. You will want to make sure that it’s large enough to cover the area that is in pain. You also don’t want it to be too large as this can be uncomfortably hot. If the pad is too small, it may not provide adequate coverage.
- Heating Settings: Different heating pads come with different heating settings. Look for a pad that offers a range of temperature options so you can customize your experience at a comfortable level. It’s also important to choose a pad with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent overheating.
- Material: The material of the heating pad can affect its effectiveness and comfort. They are typically made from cotton, polyester or a mix of both. Look for a pad made of high-quality materials that are soft and comfortable against the skin. Some pads also come with a removable cover that can be washed for easy maintenance.
- Portability: If you plan on using your heating pad on the go, look for a pad that is lightweight and easy to transport. Some pads also come with a carrying case for added convenience.
- Price: Consider your budget and look for a pad that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Keep in mind that a higher price doesn’t always mean better quality.
Benefits of a Far Infrared Heating Pad
Unlike traditional heat therapy methods, infrared heat therapy harnesses the power of infrared radiation to penetrate the body’s tissues. In order to reap from its features, below is everything you need to know about the various health benefits a far infrared heating pad has to offer:
- Relieves Muscle Pain
Infrared heating pads have become a non-invasive option to naturally relieve muscle pain. It penetrates the skin and increases blood flow to the affected areas. With an increased blood flow, it can provide nutrients and oxygen to the muscles so they can heal quicker. Infrared heating pads can also reduce inflammation and relax tense muscles if you suffer from acute or chronic stiffness. - Reduces Stiffness
If you have stiff muscles or joints, applying an infrared heating pad for 20 to 30 minutes can help relax the area better and make it flexible. However, some stiffness may require multiple sessions before seeing results. If the pain does not go away, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. - Decreases Inflammation
If you are suffering from chronic pain or inflammation, the infrared waves from infrared heating pads can penetrate deep into the tissues for pain relief. While standard heating pads only heat the surface of the skin, infrared heating pads can provide the ultimate relief even to deep-seated pain. - Regenerates Tissue
Far infrared heating pads offer a unique heat therapy to stimulate blood flow and promote healing by penetrating deep into the muscles. When used correctly, they can safely and effectively regenerate tissues in your body by stimulating the growth of new blood vessels, muscles and bones. They can also be used to regenerate nerve tissue.
Steps to Safely Use a Far Infrared Heating Pad
Far infrared heating pads has become a great way to relieve muscle pain and stiffness. To effectively and safely use them, below are a few steps to follow:
- Place the far infrared heating pad on the affected area for 10-15 minutes. You may gradually increase the time depending on your body.
- Wrap the far infrared heating pad around the affected area for a longer-last effect.
- Use the far infrared heating pad in conjunction with ice for a more effective treatment.
- Combine the far infrared heating pad with essential oils for an aromatherapy experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do far infrared heating pads alleviate back pain?
Far infrared heating pads work by emitting infrared radiation that penetrates deep into the muscles, tissues, and joints. This helps to increase blood flow, reduce inflammation and relax the muscles, which in turn helps to alleviate back pain.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using an infrared heating pad?
The advantages of using an infrared heating pad include pain relief, improved blood circulation and relaxation of muscles. The disadvantages include the risk of burns if the pad is used improperly, and the fact that it may not be effective for all types of pain.
Is there any risk associated with using far infrared heating pads regularly?
There is a risk of burns if the pad is used improperly or for too long. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and to use the pad for no more than the recommended time.
Does a far infrared heating pad emit radiation?
While far infrared heating pads emit radiation, it is not the same type of harmful radiation that is emitted by nuclear power plants or x-ray machines. The infrared heat is considered safe as it penetrates the body to provide health benefits.
Can you sleep on an infrared heating pad?
If used before bed, it can encourage a good night’s rest. While there is no evidence that sleeping on a far infrared heating pad can be harmful, it is highly recommended to use one specifically designed for sleeping.
Disclaimer: Last update on 2024-05-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
This content is provided solely for educational reasons and should not be seen as medical guidance. It’s important to consult with a healthcare expert prior to making any changes to your health regimen, including dietary adjustments or the use of supplements.
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