Hot packs, warm moist towels, heating pads, and infrared lamps are often used to raise the temperature of soft tissues directly below the surface of the skin. This brings soothing relief to many patients suffering from back pain, spasm, bursitis, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal conditions.
Heat applied to the surface of the skin enlarges blood vessels below the surface, relaxing tissues and can temporarily relieve painful symptoms. Increasing circulation and relaxing muscles is helpful before or after chiropractic adjustments, exercises, and other treatments.