#the standards for heat exposure we have are weak; the general understanding of the danger of heat exposure is weak; the risks are growing

[girderednerve]

During the 2007 hearings on Capitol Hill, workers testified about being left to die by the tracks while railroad managers ignored pleas for care. The 2008 update to the Federal Railroad Safety Act required the companies to provide “prompt medical attention” and mandated that railroads bring injured workers to the hospital as soon as they ask.

About five years after the harrowing congressional testimony, outside Chicago, a supervisor was driving a Union Pacific machine operator, Jared Whitt, to the hospital. Whitt’s lips felt as if they were about to burst and his arms and legs tingled, he testified as part of a lawsuit he later filed. He closed his eyes and thought about his five kids. Was he dying? “Please,” he recalled telling his manager: “Get me there. Please hurry.”

Whitt had suffered a heat stroke as June temperatures climbed to about 100 degrees, and his manager, work equipment supervisor Dave Birt, believed Whitt was going into cardiac arrest, Birt said in his deposition. They had just started toward the hospital when Birt’s cellphone rang. “Well,” Whitt heard Birt say, “what do you want me to do?” A pause. “I’m no doctor, but when a man’s arms are numb and tingling, I’d say he needs to go see one.” Pause. “I’m pulling over.”

Birt held the phone to Whitt’s ear. Whitt couldn’t hold it himself because his numb arms had retracted, his fists clenched at the top of his chest, Whitt said in his pretrial deposition. The man on the other end was Birt’s boss, manager of track programs Talmage Dalebout. “Why don’t we just bring you back here to the job site and get you cooled down,” Whitt recalled Dalebout saying. “If you get cooled down, you’ll probably be OK.” Birt declined to comment when reached by ProPublica. Dalebout didn’t respond to calls, texts and social media messages.

Union Pacific claims in the lawsuit that Whitt never requested to be taken to the hospital and, when Birt says he asked, Whitt chose the job site. But experts say workers suffering from heat stroke —a potentially life-threatening condition marked by confusion in which body temperatures can rise to 106 degrees — lack the faculties to make any decision for themselves; someone should always take them to the hospital regardless of what a worker requests. In hindsight, Birt said later in deposition, he wished they had continued to the hospital.

#there are two stories in this article about workers experiencing severe heat-related illness being denied medical care #the broader points here about how railroads respond to worker injury are important on their own but i worry particularly about heat injury #the standards for heat exposure we have are weak; the general understanding of the danger of heat exposure is weak; the risks are growing #heat stroke can kill you & if it doesn't it can leave you with nerve & tissue damage. that's what happened to these workers. #the thing about occupational safety is that no matter what injury numbers you are looking at they are an undercount #but it's worse when you have immense & targeted pressure on employees to avoid reporting injury #railroads fire injured workers & managers who report injuries. but trust the industry: ''railroad culture is safety culture''!

[healthytop10s]

Best Heating Pad Reviews 2019 | Great Moisture, Massaging, and Vibrating Options

Before the invention of the heating pad, people often used a bed warmer to keep themselves warm at night. This method consists of filling a metal pan with coal and tucking it between the sheets. That does not sound very safe, now does it?

This dangerous practice was eventually replaced with a hot water bottle. A worthy successor I would say. Definitely beats waking up in flames. In addition to providing warmth, another benefit of hot water bottles was that the heat could be applied to specific parts of the body for therapeutic purposes.

Taking that feature into today, we have the modern heating pad that is good for both pain relief and warmth while also being much safer. Whether you are looking for a bed companion (even if you have a partner) or alleviation from discomfort, these are the top ones on the market!

Our Top Rated Heating Pad for 2019

Sunbeam Xpressheat Heating Pad

Features XpressHeat technology that heats up the pad in 30 seconds

Has a digital LED controller that helps you easily switch between 6 personalized heat settings

Easy-care and machine-washable soft microplush fabric

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Top 3 Heating Pads

[BEST OVERALL]

1. Sunbeam Xpressheat

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Editor's Rating:

4.8/5

Heats up quickly

Extra large size

Integrated cover

[BEST FOR THE MONEY]

​2. PureRelief XL - King Size

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Editor's Rating:

4.6/5

Storage bag included

Moist heat option

Six temperature settings

[BEST FOR FAST HEATING]

3. Thermophore MaxHeat Deep-Heat Therapy

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Editor's Rating:

4.7/5

Extra large size

Long cord

Retains heat well after automatic shut-off

​Buying Guide

What you look for depends on your needs. For instance, are you looking for the perfect heating pad for fibromyalgia or just the best electric heating pad?

Types of Heating Pads

While the term is often used to encompass all the types that we will discuss, it is important to know and understand the differences between them. They all have strengths and weaknesses that one should know about before making an investment.

Chemical Heating Pads

Chemical variations are often in the form of disposable packets. This type of heating pad can be categorized even further based on the chemicals they are composed of. However, the general idea is that the user will start a chemical reaction that will generate heat for a couple of hours and then dissipate.

Chemical pads are convenient for occasional use but other forms (non-disposable) of heating pads would be more well suited for frequent treatment.

Microwaveable

Microwaveable heating pads are made of flannel fabrics and are filled with grains such as rice, buckwheat, or beans. As their name suggests, these can be heated using a microwave. The grains inside the pad acts as an insulator and keeps the pad warm.

Microwaveable options have an added benefit over chemical heating pads in that they can be reused. Furthermore, this type of heating pad can be constructed as a do-it-yourself (DIY) project from materials found around the house.

Electric Heating Pads

Electric heating pads are mostly made out of electric coils wrapped inside a flexible pad. These types of pads are plugged into an outlet and the temperature can often be controlled via a remote or dial. Furthermore, electric pads are able to distribute the heat more evenly over its surface area when compared to the other types of heating pads.

Another benefit of electric is that they usually have an automatic shut-off timer feature. This can prevent burns from prolonged use, especially if you use it when sleeping. Moreover, some electric heating pads come with washable covers.

Moist vs. Dry

Within each of the aforementioned types, there is the option of moist heat or dry heat (sometimes both). This choice is mostly a preferential decision for most consumers.

Most users say that dry heat feels more comfortable and is easier to set up. On the other hand, others state that moist heat is better at easing pain and soreness. However, moist heating pads requires the user to damp a sponge and insert it into the pad before operation.

The Benefits of Heating Pads for Pain

Most people think that the heat help alleviate pain. This is certainly correct but then the question is: why does heat act as a pain reliever?

In his article, Vert Mooney focuses on how heat therapy helps with lower back pain but the explanations can be translated to cover other bodily aches as well. Vert Mooney states that “[h]eat therapy dilates the blood vessels of the muscles” and “[t]his process increases the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, helping to heal the damaged tissue”.

The Live Science Staff over at Live Science discovered that heat deactivates pain at a molecular level. They debunked the myth that heat just provides comfort and seemingly alleviates pain through a placebo effect. According to the staff, a heat receptor called TRPV1 can block P2X3 pain receptors.

For even more information on the positive benefits of heating pads, check out the the article Treating Pain with Heat, The Complete Guide by Paul Ingraham of Pain Science!

Best Heating Pads

Do not worry if this all sounds confusing, continue to our reviews to see our picks for top rated heating pads!

1. Sunbeam Xpressheat Heating Pad

Editor's Rating:

The Sunbeam Xpressheat is hands down the fastest heating pad on the market, providing healing and pain relief via heat within 30 seconds! Sunbeam boasts that this is 3 times faster than standard heating pads. This is great for people who are busy or just want to get warm or pain relief quickly (which should be everyone!).

The integrated microplush cover is extremely soft and is great for applying to any part of the body. Furthermore, cleaning is a breeze with the machine washable cover. Just make sure to dry it on medium or low setting to retain its fuzziness!

The cover does not shift around from use as it is integrated with the pad. No more burns from the cover slipping off and exposing the hot plastic component! In addition, this integration allows the the pad to retain its shape from continuous treatment.

The extra large size is versatile and convenient for covering larger areas like the spine or legs. The internal heating components spread the heat evenly so that the heating pad is effective at any position or angle (even the edges are the same temperature).

The Sunbeam XpressHeat comes with a digital LCD controller that features six heat settings to get the desired amount of heat. The digital LCD screen and physical buttons make choosing and switching between settings easy.

Furthermore, it has an auto-off feature that allows the user to have the heating pad shut off after two hours. On the other hand, the pad defaults to a continuous on mode that is great for extended use without having to fiddle with the controller every two hours.

This heating pad also comes with a moist heat option that is good for deep therapeutic therapy. A 9 feet long cord is included, which is very convenient for use all over the house. No more of those moments where you discover that the outlet you wish to use is too far from where you are!

Things We Liked

Heats up quickly

Extra large size

Integrated cover

Automatic shut-off timer

Things We Didn't Like

Controller gets warm at times

Shop Now at Amazon.com

2. PureRelief XL - King Size Heating Pad

Editor's Rating:

The PureRelief XL - King Size is an excellent heating pad for full body relief. It is one of the top heating pads for joint pain. The manufacturer recommends a daily 20-minute session (or as recommended by your doctor) to increase blood flow and reduce pain and muscle spasms.

Its extra large 12” x 24” size is convenient for covering a large portion of the body. Long gone are the days where you have to move your pad around to treat different areas! The super-soft microplush offers maximum comfort for daily use.

Furthermore, it is machine washable so cleaning the pad is easy! When washing, make sure to not use bleach or a wringer. In addition, wash the PureRelief XL in cold water and tumble dry on low heat to keep the softness.

The digital LCD controller allows switching between 6 temperature settings. These settings range from temperatures of around 105 degrees Fahrenheit to around 140. Moreover, the other side of the heating pad seems to be insulated so the heat is more focused for quicker alleviation.

The PureRelief XL features fast-heating so that you can experience relief more quickly. Additionally, a moist heat option is available. To use this feature, apply a fine mist of water to the pad (do not soak it), place it on the area you want, and experience bliss as your worries (and pain) fades away!

Some heating pads begin heating up along the coils and then radiate out over time. However, this productdoes not suffer from this issue. There is even and constant warmth throughout the pad.

The heating pad also has a an auto shut-off feature that turns itself off after 2 hours. This is perfect for those who are in a rush or fall asleep with the pad on, even though it's still not recommended to do. This feature conserves energy and prevents burn by excessive heat exposure.

In addition to all of these great features, the manufacture is so confident that you will love this heating pad that they offer a five year warranty! Did I mention that a storage bag is also included? This is one of the top rated options for good reason!

Things We Liked

Storage bag included

Moist heat option

Six temperature settings

Heats evenly

Five year warranty

Things We Didn't Like

Cord could be longer

Could feature higher temperature settings

Shop Now at Amazon.com

3. Thermophore MaxHeat Deep-Heat Therapy

Editor's Rating:

The Thermophore MaxHeat Deep-Heat Therapy is the best large heating pad on the market! Its enormous 14” x 27” size allows a large surface area to receive treatment at the same time. This is especially great for covering your entire back or legs. In fact, this is the ideal heating pad for back pain due to its size and numerous other characteristics that we will discuss.

The Thermophore MaxHeat comes with a controller that allows the user to choose between three settings. The options are: low, medium, and high. For the quickest and most efficient sessions, turn the switch to high for a couple of minutes and then lower it to the desired temperature.

The upgraded version of this (the one that is linked) has a 20-minute automatic shutoff timer once the temperature reaches the desired setting. Previously, the user would have to hold a button until the desired temperature was reached so this is a great improvement!

A benefit for this choice is that it is insulated so when the automatic shut-off is triggered, the heat is retained and dissipate slowly. This feature is great for preventing over-usage and extending the life of the heating pad (and protecting your body!). Furthermore, there is a button that allows you to pause at the current temperature and follow the same dissipating cycle just mentioned.

The Thermophore MaxHeat Deep-Heat Therapy also features a moist heat option. A good way to utilize this method is to combine it with a damp towel. This system will provide a great warming effect that is excellent for pain relief or just warming up the body.

In addition, this heating pad comes with an extra long cord that is convenient for usability. Furthermore, cleaning is simple but make sure to follow the instructions so that you can get the most life out of the pad.

Things We Liked

Extra large size

Long cord

Retains heat well after automatic shut-off

Easy cleaning

Things We Didn't Like

Only three temperature settings

Shop Now at Amazon.com

4. PureRelief Neck & Shoulder Heating Pad

Editor's Rating:

The PureRelief Neck & Shoulder Pad is the best choice for shoulder aches and pains. Conventional (geometrical) heating pads are great for pain relief for your back, legs, and other body parts. However, their shapes and sizes are not effective at providing the same alleviation for your shoulders and necks.

Say “bye” to the days of not being able to treat your neck and shoulder pains efficiently! This heating pad is specially made to treat your neck and shoulders as gods. It is perfectly contoured to drape around your neck and shoulders area comfortably.

Furthermore, the entire pad is heated equally so that you will even experience relief on the sides of your neck (in addition to every other part of your neck and shoulders). We mention the sides specifically because other “neck and shoulders” options on the market do not disperse the heat uniformly.

The PureRelif Neck & Shoulder is covered in extremely comfortable micromink fibers that feels fantastic around your neck area. Furthermore, the heating pad is machine washable so you can have a clean and refreshing experience for years to come (make sure to read the washing instructions for best results!).

The PureRelief Neck & Shoulder comes with four heat settings. These settings range from around 110 degrees Fahrenheit to around 140. The settings are color coded and displayed via an LED on the controller for quick communication. Having four settings provides more accessibility to users with different desires.

Like most other modern heating pads, this one comes with an automatic shut-off feature that helps conserve its life and protects the user from over exposure. This model comes with one that automatically shuts off after two hours.

The heating pad also comes with an extra long cord and a storage bag. The storage bag is convenient for transporting the it when traveling. Additionally, the manufactures provides a five year warranty!

Things We Liked

Perfectly contoured for the neck and shoulders

Four heat settings

Storage bag included

Five year warranty

Things We Didn't Like

Heat dissipation could be more efficient

Shop Now at Amazon.com

5. Sunbeam Heating Pad with UltraHeat Technology

Editor's Rating:

The Sunbeam with UltraHeat Technology is the best moist heating pad. This heating pad comes with a sponge that can dampened and inserted back into the heating pad before operation. Using the moist heat option helps ease pain and brings comfort more quickly.

The Sunbeat with UltraHet Technology achieves its temperature setting quickly and then maintains consistent heat for maximum relief. There are three basic settings that can be chosen with a switch. The simplistic nature of the controller makes it easy for those who wish to use the pad without too much interaction.

Unfortunately, this pad does not have an automatic shut-off timer. Before you dismiss this product completely, hear me out! Just as there are definite benefits to an automatic shut-off timer, there are also advantages to not having one.

For instance, this product is great for continuous use without having to remember to turn it back on. Or even worse, finding out it was off from experiencing pain again. This no automatic shutdown feature could be a selling point!

Furthermore, many users purchase this heating pad for their pets. Not shutting off automatically is a plus for them as they can leave the pad on for their pets while they are out. To be honest, it seems that a lot of consumers purchase heating pads for pets and not themselves. Which is just heart-warming (haha) and fantastic to see!

Moreover, the heating pad is machine washable so you can clean it easily if it ever gets dirty. Also, remember to turn off the heating pad after use because it is not automatic. Some customers state that they often forget to turn the heating pad off because they are used to other heating pads with automatic shut-off features. On the contrary, this is one of the selling points of this product. This is the heating pad for you if you look are looking for constant treatment!

Things We Liked

Moist option with insertable sponge

No automatic shut-off

Easy cleaning

Easy-to-use controller

Constant heat

Things We Didn't Like

Only three temperature settings

Occasionally bunches up at corners

Shop Now at Amazon.com

6. Sunbeam Renue Heat Therapy Neck and Shoulder Wrap

Editor's Rating:

The Sunbeam Renue Heat Therapy Neck and Shoulder Wrap is the best heating pad for neck pain! This heating pad is designed to fit snuggly around your neck and shoulders and provide warmth and pain relief.

In addition to the perfect contouring, the edges are slightly weighted in order to keep the heating pad stable around your neck area. Furthermore, there is a magnetic clasp on the front that helps in securing the wrap in place.

The weight of the heating pad is not too heavy but it aids in helping the heat penetrate further for better treatment. Moreover, the heating pad is great for use on other body parts as well. The flexible nature of the material allows the heating pad to be versatile. It may not be the best when compared to traditional heating pads because if its size and shape but it’s practical as well.

This heating pad comes with four temperature settings that is controllable via a simple remote. It also comes with an automatic two hour shut-off timer as well that is perfect for a therapeutic session.

The Sunbeam Renue Heat Therapy Neck and Shoulder Wrap offers both dry and moist heat options. The heating pad defaults to the dry option for normal use. On the other hand, you can apply some water to the pad to experience the benefits of the moist option.

The heating pad contains a soft velveteen fabric that is very comfortable on the skin. The pad is machine washable so do not fret if there are any spills or accidents!

Plus, this heating pad comes with a long cord for convenience. No one wants to have to sit next to a wall just to use their heating pad! Also, the heat is spread evenly throughout the heating pad so every part of your neck and shoulders (or anywhere you wish to place the pad) will receive excellent treatment!

Things We Liked

Fits snuggly around the neck area

Slight weights and magnetic clasp keeps the pad in place

Soft velveteen fabric

Versatile design

Things We Didn't Like

Could feature higher temperature settings

Shop Now at Amazon.com

7. Sunbeam Heating Pad plus Massage

Editor's Rating:

The Sunbeam Heating Pad plus Massage is the #1 massaging heating pad. This heating pad comes with a vibration mechanism that further aids in alleviating sore muscles and arthritis pain. The heat and massage functions are independent so you can either have just one of the options on or both. Or none, but that would defeat the purpose of having this product!

The soft cover provides a soothing warmth that is complimented by the vibration. Due to the massage feature, heat is only radiated out from one side. This could be an advantage because this means that the other side of the heating pad is not heated.

This allows the user to place the heating pad between their body and another surface. For instance, putting the heating pad between a chair and oneself. Most heating pads should not be used in such a manner (even though they still are) because it increases safety concerns.

While this feature does not mitigate all concerns, it is safer to place the pad between surfaces. Furthermore, the manufacturer places a label on the side that is correct for use to avoid any confusion!

Moreover, the thick nature of the pad’s design lessens the chance of it crinkling or rolling over on itself. Theses are common issues among other thinner heating pads and it usually causes the overlap or crinkled section to become hotter.

As previously mentioned, the heat and massage features are separate. This is reflected in the remote control that provides two separate switches for the functions. For both features, there are two settings: low and high. Additionally, this heating pad comes with a one hour shut-off timer.

The convenient features and unique massage aspect of this pad makes this one of the top heating pads on the market. Even more attractive, the cover is machine washable and snaps onto the inner component to prevent shifting.

Things We Liked

Massage feature

Ability to place between surfaces

Thickness prevents crinkling and overlap

One hour shut-off timer

Snap feature prevents shifting

Things We Didn't Like

Only two heating and massage settings

Vibration strength could be improved

Shop Now at Amazon.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best heating pad to buy?

Sunbeam Xpressheat Heating Pad

PureRelief XL - King Size Heating Pad

Thermophore MaxHeat Deep-Heat Therapy

PureRelief Neck & Shoulder Heating Pad

Sunbeam Heating Pad with UltraHeat Technology

Sunbeam Renue Heat Therapy Neck and Shoulder Wrap

Sunbeam Heating Pad plus Massage

Is it bad to sleep on a heating pad?

It is bad to sleep on a heating pad because it is a huge safety hazard for 2 reasons:

If you're sleeping having anything electric directly touching your skin is a safety hazard and doing so can cause burns.

If it's on and it is creating heat then it can be a source of an electrical fire which can not only harmful to you, but your home.

In short, you don't need to sleep with it on - all it takes is about 15-25 minutes to apply it. Make sure you're conscious while it's on because the risk isn't worth it.

Is it safe to leave heating pad on all night?

It is not safe to leave a heating pad on all night because it is not only dangerous to your body, but also your surrounds. Like we mentioned before, it can burn your skin or potentially cause fires.

What does a heating pad do?

A heating pad is a soft pad that is used to warm up various parts of your body to help reduce pain. It is often used for muscles, joints, or other areas because a mild heat is not only safe, but helps the blood vessels dilate, helping to circulate blood around the area so it feels faster. Common heating pad types are electrical, chemical, and hot water.

Is heating pad good for back pain?

Heating pads are good for back pain, especially in short-term relief because it warms up the back and comforts it. It's similar to a warm shower, bath, or hot tub - heating pads relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and increase blood flow. There are some long term benefits as well and it can help chronic injuries.

Are Heating Pads good for arthritis?

Heating pads are good for arthritis because they help reduce pain and swelling. Heat application subscribes to one of the two most popular healing methods - hot and cold treatments (and I think you can guess which one this is helping out in). They're particularly great for stiff joints and sore muscles, making it the ideal treatment for anyone with arthritis.

Closing Thoughts

We hope that our thoughts helped you find the perfect heating pad that fits your own criterias! Maybe you learned a thing or two you did not know about heating pads as well. Any of the heating pads featured in this article would make a great addition to your arsenal for combating cold and pain!

Remember to exercise caution when using a heating pad, especially when using it for an extended duration. Reading the instructions or manual could help prevent unnecessary harm or headaches. If there are any worries that are not addressed in those documents, contact the manufacturer or your doctor for advice!

While we stated some of the pros and cons of these particular heating pads, we understand that your opinions may differ and that is okay! If there is anything we missed or if there are insights you would like to share, feel free to leave us a comment!

Looking for another way to ease back pains? Check out our articles on the best back massagers, foam rollers, and TENS units!

Don't forget to check out our home page for more great tips!