May 3rd, 2022 by Sarah Miles

Thermotherapy is an effective way of relieving pain, improving mobility, and reducing inflammation. Now, you may assume with this grand title that it’s a fancy treatment with a huge waiting list or a hefty price tag, but you would be mistaken. Thermotherapy is actually very simple, very accessible, and you’re probably already doing it in some form.

That’s because, while there are some solid scientific principles behind it, thermotherapy is just about applying heat to the body. If you have ever rubbed a sore back or clutched a hot water bottle to a menstrual cramp before, you have conducted thermotherapy.

How does thermotherapy work?

Thermotherapy, which is also known as heat therapy, works by applying heat to achieve several outcomes: pain reduction, improved circulation, inflammation reduction, and faster healing. You may be cynical about how simple warmth can achieve these things without the use of medication, but it really can, and this can make a huge difference to people, especially those suffering from chronic conditions such as arthritis and rheumatism.

Firstly, heat improves circulation as warmer blood moves around the body more easily. This carries more oxygen around the body which not only helps to reduce inflammation but supports the healing process. Heat also produces a natural analgesic effect as heat receptors block the chemical signals that communicate pain to the brain. This increases the pain threshold, so while it doesn’t cure the source of the pain, it increases your tolerance for it and allows you to get on with everyday life. 

How can you apply thermotherapy at home?

There are many ways to apply heat that will give you therapeutic benefits, it’s all about finding the right methods for you. 

If you just experience occasional pain or have a one-off minor injury, you could try things like heat gel, using a hot water bottle, or taking a warm bath. All can be effective but just remember that all these things will start cooling straight away so the relief may be short-lived.

For more chronic pain, you may wish to consider something like a heat pad. This is similar in principle to an electric blanket as it’s a soft fabric pad which is heated via electric wires that run through the centre. They’re much smaller than an electric blanket (which can also help with pain when in bed) so you can place them on different areas of the body. They have the benefit of even, consistent heat which is very controllable and will remain at the same temperature for as long as you need it.

If you often experience pain in a specific part of the body, a shaped heat pad could be just the thing. These are heat pads that are designed to fit around targeted areas and apply heat directly while staying in position. Models include those designed for back and stomach pain, neck and shoulder pain, and foot pain. You can wear them while watching TV or reading, or even at your desk while working. They are inexpensive to buy and very energy efficient so cost just pennies to run.