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Aches and pains in your muscles and joints can make it debilitating to go about your daily routine. That's where heat therapy comes in. A heating pad is a medication-free way to address pain and soreness without leaving the comfort of your own home. Alyssa Raineri, DPT, a Florida-based physical therapist, says that applying heat to sore muscles improves blood flow and increases the muscle's oxygen and nutrients, promoting tissue healing. Karena Wu, PT, DPT, physical therapist and owner of ActiveCare Physical Therapy, adds that heating pads can also increase blood circulation, reducing stiffness and pain.
When selecting a heating pad, it is important to consider your specific needs for the product—whether it is hands-free, can be microwaved, or offers targeted relief for muscle pain. To simplify shopping, we tested 17 heating pads and evaluated them based on their setup, design, features, heating quality, and value. We also had a family physician from our Medical Expert Board review the contents of this article for medical accuracy, risks associated with using heating pads, and who should avoid using them. From these tests and this advice, we chose the best options.
When deciding what heating setting to use, it's important to understand the different types:
Has an auto shutoff to prevent overheating
Neck area doesn’t get as warm
We chose the Pure Enrichment PureRelief Heating Pad as our best overall pick for a few key reasons. It sets to four heat settings with a press of a button and automatically shuts off after two hours of use to prevent overheating and conserve energy. Not only does the pad have a strong heating system, but it’s also made from soft fibers, which prevents the pad from burning the skin. Plus, it’s wearable and covers your back, neck, and abdomen so you can comfortably walk around the house—the magnetic neck closure and the adjustable elastic belt help to keep the heating pad in place. Overall, the pad is the best because of its affordable price point, easy setup, and high heating quality.
The neck area didn't get as hot as other picks, so if you need targeted neck pain relief, you may need another option. We also realized it had no self-timer for the various heat settings.
Charge Type: Plug-in heating pad | Areas Targeted: Neck, back, and shoulders | Number of Heat Settings: 4 | Auto Off Function: Yes | Added Features: Magnetic neck closure, adjustable waist strap
Easy to use and set up
Has a moist heat option
Not as comfortable as other pads
This option from Sunbeam delivers most of the features of other pads on this list at a fraction of the cost. Using a sliding controller, you can adjust the three heat settings to warm your muscles. The pad has a washable cover and a 9-foot cord, making it easy to use and clean. You can use the sponge insert to activate the moist heat option for deeper relief.
Overall, it’s an easy-to-use pad that functions exactly as advertised with dry and moist heat options available.
One caveat we noticed is that the cover material is not as comfortable as other pads tested in the lab. However, it’s still made with a soft cloth and sponge.
Charge Type: Plug-in heating pad | Areas Targeted: Legs, shoulders, lower abdomen | Number of Heat Settings: 3 | Auto Off Function: No | Added Features: Moist heat option
The best pad for maximum coverage provides heat to your pain area and has a larger surface area, and this one from Sunbeam gets the job done. It’s 12 by 24 inches and can be used on multiple body parts, such as your legs, back, and lower abdomen. You can change the heat setting to low, medium, or high using a sliding controller. Plus, it has a sponge, so you can use the moist heat option.
Once the pad is turned on, it can take a few minutes to feel the warmth. Overall, it’s a large heating pad and is ideal for anyone who needs to cover areas of the body with a larger surface area or has arthritis.
We didn't really like the lightweight controller and noted that it tends to slip off the couch easily, but this was a personal preference.
Charge Type: Plug-in heating pad | Areas Targeted: Back, neck, lower abdomen, legs | Number of Heat Settings: 3 | Auto Off Function: No | Added Features: Moist heat option
Can be worn like a belt
Made from soft, velvet material
Only has two heat settings
If you’re looking to take your heat therapy to a whole different level, look no further than Comfier’s Heating Pad. This pad does double-duty as a heater and massager and provides much-needed relief to sore muscles in your lower back. There are two heat modes, three massage modes, and two intensity levels to choose from, so you can pick the settings that meet your lifestyle needs. It fits like a lifting belt and is made from a soft velvet cover, so you won’t have to worry about discomfort. We’d recommend this for people who may not need many heat settings and are looking for a light massage on the back.
We noted that there were only two heat settings, which may not be ideal if you want more warmth.
Charge Type: Plug-in heating pad | Areas Targeted: Lower back | Number of Heat Settings: 2 | Auto Off Function: No | Added Features: Massager with three modes
Folds easily into the microwave
Made with flaxseed, millets, and clay beads, the SuzziPad heating pad delivers heat to relieve joint pain, cramps, swelling, and tight muscles. The paneled design allows the pad to distribute heat evenly and can be folded easily. All you have to do is pop this pad in the microwave for 60 seconds and place it on your desired pain area. After one minute in the microwave, you can enjoy up to 10 minutes of heat in one session.
We noted that the pad may absorb any odors lingering in the microwave, so cleaning your microwave before heating your pad is recommended.
Charge Type: Microwave | Areas Targeted: Back, neck, lower abdomen, legs, ankles | Number of Heat Settings: 1 | Auto Off Function: No | Added Features: Can be used hot or cold
Patches can be placed almost anywhere on the body
Patches can only be used up to 10 times each
Unlike heating pads, which tend to be larger, these Sunbeam patches are small enough to be placed on various body parts, including your back, abdomen, arms, legs, and calves. The pads are adhesive, so you don’t have to worry about them falling off, and they can be reused up to 10 times for each pad. It features three heat settings—low, medium, and high—to deliver warmth directly to your muscles. Make sure the controller is fully charged before each use.
This heating solution doesn’t have a timer or auto shutoff, which may not be ideal if you prefer those features. However, the patches heat up quickly and can be placed wherever you need relief, so we recommend this option if you’re looking to target a specific part of your body.
Charge Type: Plug-in heating pad | Areas Targeted: Back, neck, lower abdomen, legs, ankles, arms | Number of Heat Settings: 3 | Auto Off Function: No | Added Features: None
Heating distributes evenly across the pad
External cover may be uncomfortable
Having a period can be painful if you experience menstrual cramps, but this heating pad from Yeamon helps alleviate that pain. Using graphene heating, the pad generates high heat quickly to relieve muscle tension, making it the best option for menstrual cramps. Choose from three heat and three vibration settings.
The pad’s interior is made from a soft, velvet-like material, making it comfortable against the skin, and its belt-like design makes this product portable.
We weren't a big fan of the vibration settings; we thought it was too intense, but this was a personal preference.
Charge Type: USB charging | Areas Targeted: Lower abdomen, back | Number of Heat Settings: 3 | Auto Off Function: No | Added Features: Massager with three modes
Velcro fastener doesn't feel very durable
Made from a soft pad and using four heat settings, the Sunbeam Heated Back Wrap contours to the shape of your back while relieving sore muscles. There's an adjustable waist strap to lock the back wrap in place, and the strap extends up to 85 inches. Moreover, it features an automated timer that automatically shuts off the device after two hours to prevent overheating.
This pad did not disappoint regarding setup, design, features, and heating quality. It gets hot quickly, and the heat is concentrated in the upper and lower areas of the back, per our tests. We recommend this heating pad to people who are experiencing regular back pain and need relief in-between doctor and physical therapy sessions.
We wish the velcro fastener felt more durable, but it stayed in place fine.
Charge Type: Plug-in heating pad | Areas Targeted: Lower back | Number of Heat Settings: 4 | Auto Off Function: Yes | Added Features: Moist heat option
Made with soft, velvet-like material
Built with two heating levels and five massage modes, the Comfier Brace Wrap is great for relaxing sore leg muscles. It’s made with a soft, velvet-like material, and the velcro straps make for a comfortable and secure fit. As for safety, the knee brace has a built-in timer that automatically turns off the heat at the 30-minute mark.
Overall, it’s a solid choice if you’re looking for heat and vibration therapy.
While the brace is comfortable, it can be difficult to strap around the leg. Because of this, this choice may not be ideal for people with mobility issues.
Charge Type: Plug-in heating pad | Areas Targeted: Knee | Number of Heat Settings: 2 | Auto Off Function: Yes | Added Features: Massager with 5 modes
Takes 8 to 10 minutes to reach full heat
Made from super plush material and with a built-in heater and wide opening, the Gintao Heating Pad makes for the best feet heating pad. The setup is easy; all you have to do is plug it in and select one of three heat settings (low, medium, or high). Beyond these features, there is an auto-shutoff option, so your pad won’t burn you or overheat.
The plush cover material is super cozy and comfortable and helps to insulate the warmth. If you experience arthritis or Raynaud's syndrome, we would recommend this pad from Gintao as an option.
Of all the pads on the list, this one took the longest to heat up. We noted that reaching full heat took between eight and 10 minutes.
Charge Type: Plug-in heating pad | Areas Targeted: Feet | Number of Heat Settings: 3 | Auto Off Function: Yes | Added Features: None
We spent eight hours at the Verywell Testing Lab testing 17 heating pads to find the best ones. We compared the pads based on the following criteria:
In addition to our tests, we contacted medical professionals for their insights on heating pads' benefits and proper use. These experts included:
According to Wu, lying on a heating pad for more than 15 to 20 minutes is not recommended to prevent your risk of burns. If you’re using a heating pad during the nighttime, set your pad to an auto shutoff to ensure you’re not overusing the pad on sore muscles or joints.
Dr. Raineri says burns are the most common injury caused by heating pads. To avoid burning, she recommends removing all jewelry, inspecting and protecting your skin with layers, and using a timer. She also suggests stopping use and contacting your doctor if you see any severe redness, rashes, blistering, pain, or swelling.
People who are pregnant or experiencing menstrual cramps can use a heating pad to help relieve the symptoms, and a heating pad can offer comfort and relief during labor. The uterus is a muscle, and cramps are muscular contractions, explains Kecia Gaither, MD, double board-certified in OB/GYN and Maternal Fetal Medicine and director of perinatal services at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln. She says a heating pad can be beneficial as heat helps to relax the muscles and improve blood flow. She suggests using a pain (an NSAID like Advil or Motrin) reliever in addition to the heat therapy to decrease pain.
Receiving her master’s degree in public health in 2020, Kayla Hui is a seasoned public health practitioner and health journalist. She has interviewed dozens of experts, reviewed numerous research studies, and tested a plethora of products to deliver well-researched product reviews and roundups. Her goal is to help readers make more informed decisions about their health and well-being.
Additional reporting to this story by Danielle Zoellner
As a seasoned health writer, Danielle Zoellner knows the importance of finding just the right product to fit your medical needs. Throughout her career, Danielle has interviewed a variety of experts in the medical and health fields while reviewing dozens of products. Her experience and knowledge in the field work together to help readers like yourself find the best products for your daily life.
Jo J, Lee SH. Heat therapy for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on pain relief and quality of life. Sci Rep. 8(1):16252. doi:10.1038/s41598-018-34303-z
Freiwald J, Magni A, Fanlo-Mazas P, Paulino E, et al. A role for superficial heat therapy in the management of non-specific, mild-to-moderate low back pain in current clinical practice: A narrative review. Life (Basel). 11(8): 780. doi:10.3390/life11080780.
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