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What sizes are available?
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The ThermaCare ® Menstrual Patch, Neck, Wrist & Shoulder Wrap, Knee Wrap and Hand & Wrist Wrap all are available in one size only. The Lower Back & Hip Wrap is available in S/M and L/XL sizes:
| | Women’s Pant Size | Men’s Pant Size |
| S/M | Up to size 8 | Up to 34-inch waist |
| L/XL | Size 9 up to size 20 | 35-inch to 47-inch waist |
Some retailers may carry one size that fits most while other retailers may carry both the S/M and L/XL options.
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What are the heat cells in ThermaCare®?
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The heat cells are the part of ThermaCare ® that provides warmth. These cells contain a mixture of ingredients (activated carbon, iron powder, sodium chloride, sodium thiosulfate, sodium polyacrylate and water) that react with air to provide low-level heat. The chemical reaction is called iron oxidation, which occurs naturally in the environment.
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Can I reuse ThermaCare® if I don’t wear it the full 8 hours?
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ThermaCare ® was designed to provide heat therapy for long-lasting, powerful pain relief and muscle relaxation, anytime, anywhere. Because of the technology, each wrap can be used only once.
ThermaCare ® works by using iron particles which, when exposed to air, start reacting. This reaction gives off heat, but once the iron is used up, it can’t be reactivated or recharged. So after the product stops heating, it won’t reheat and should be disposed of properly.
ThermaCare ® should not be used in microwave ovens as the heat wrap may catch on fire.
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How do I put the wrap on? Which side goes toward my body?
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Place the darker side of the heat cells against your skin. The product may not warm up as efficiently if you put the wrong side against the skin.
- Back wraps: Place the wrap against your back, centering the heat discs over the area of pain. The overhanging "flap" below the heat discs will be the bottom edge of the wrap.
- Menstrual Patch: Remove the peel paper from the adhesive and attach the ThermaCare ® Menstrual patch to the inside of your cotton or nylon underwear over the area of pain. Use your hand to press the patch into place to make sure it sticks completely. Note: The adhesive may not stick well if it has been removed and reattached to clothing several times.
-Neck, Wrist & Shoulder Wrap: Remove the peel paper from the adhesive tabs and place the heat discs over the pain area. Press the adhesive tabs onto your skin. Note: Adhesive will stick better if skin is dry and free of oils or lotions.
- Knee & Elbow Wrap: Remove the peel paper from the adhesive tabs. Bend knee (or elbow) slightly and place opening over kneecap (or elbow). Press the adhesive tabs onto your skin. Wrap straps around knee (elbow) and fasten. Note: Do not place heat cells on the back of the knee or inside the bend of the arm.
- Hand & Wrist Wrap: Place on pain area on back of hand with thumb through slit and darker discs toward skin. Wrap straps under palm of hand and fasten.
Note: Do not place heat cells on the palm of the hand and do not overlap the heat cells.
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If these wraps are air activated, how do you package them without exposing them to air, which would activate them?
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ThermaCare ® wraps begin to activate before they’re put in the foil pouch. Once the pouch is sealed and the air inside the pouch has been used up, the wrap will stop heating. Even though they’re exposed to the air for a very short time, this doesn’t affect the performance. ThermaCare ® will last 8 hours, while ThermaCare ® Arthritis will last 12 hours.
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What materials are ThermaCare® HeatWraps made of, and what holds the wrap together?
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ThermaCare ® wraps are made from soft cloth-like synthetic materials. The layers of the product are held together with a specially formulated construction adhesive designed to stand up to normal use.
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What is the temperature of a ThermaCare® wrap after it has heated up? How hot does it get?
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Each heat disc is designed to heat to about 104°F (40°C) for 8 hours (12 hours for arthritis products). This temperature is just above your body's normal core temperature of 98.6°F.
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Why is the wrap disposable and not designed to be reusable? Why can I use the wrap only once?
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ThermaCare ® was designed to provide heat therapy for long-lasting, powerful pain relief and muscle relaxation. It can be combined with a return to normal activities as recommended by current therapeutic guidelines. Because it's designed to be used anytime, anywhere, it wasn't possible to make it reusable.
ThermaCare ® works by using iron particles that, when exposed to air, will start reacting. This reaction gives off heat. Once the iron is used up, it cannot be reactivated or recharged. So once the product stops heating, it should be thrown away.
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What are the functions of the ingredients in the heat discs?
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Iron reacts with oxygen in the air to provide heat in a process called iron oxidation.
- Sodium chloride (salt) speeds up the rate of reaction between iron and oxygen.
- Sodium thiosulfate controls hydrogen generation.
- Water also is necessary for the iron oxidation reaction.
- Charcoal allows the iron powder to have a surface to react inside the heat discs. The surface of this charcoal has been treated (activated) to have special properties.
- Sodium polyacrylate controls the level of water present in the heat cell.
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Can I cut the wrap to a different size to fit different areas of my body? I accidentally cut or tore the wrap/patch or damaged the heat discs. Can I still wear it?
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No, definitely not. Cutting the wrap may damage the heat cells. Damaged heat cells can lead to increased risk of burning, and we do not recommend using a wrap that has damaged or cut heat cells. If the heat wrap is damaged or ruptured, contain the contents and dispose of it properly. If ingested, rinse your mouth with water and call a Poison Control Center immediately. If the heat cell contents come in contact with your skin or eyes, rinse right away with water.
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Should I be concerned about being burned by the product?
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ThermaCare ® has been thoroughly tested for safety, and most people will be able to use it without experiencing any discomfort. However, like any heating product, there is a risk of prolonged skin redness or burns for some people. ThermaCare ® should not be worn for more than 8 hours in one day (12 hours for arthritis products) or more than seven days in a row (four days for ThermaCare ® Menstrual). Check skin frequently during use. If you find irritation or a burn, remove the product immediately. Please see packaging for complete safety tips and usage instructions.
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How many wraps can I use at one time? Sometimes I need help in more than one area (like my wrist and my shoulder).
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You can safely wear more than one ThermaCare ® wrap, but it’s important that you don’t overlap the heat cells. Also, do not wear more than one wrap in the same location. You can wear a ThermaCare ® Lower Back & Hip and ThermaCare ® Arthritis Hand & Wrist or knee products at the same time. Do not wear more than one heat wrap in the same location and take precaution not to overlap heat cells or wear any heat wraps under tight-fitting clothing, belts or waistbands. Check your skin frequently during use, and if you find irritation, stop use immediately.
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Can I use ThermaCare® if I am pregnant?
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You should consult with your doctor if you are pregnant and are experiencing pain and intend to use any pain relief products, including ThermaCare ®. Your doctor will be able to advise you on your specific circumstance and can determine whether ThermaCare ® is right for you at this time.
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How long should I wear a ThermaCare® HeatWrap?
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For best results, wear ThermaCare ® for the full 8 hours (12 hours for 12-hour arthritis products). Using ThermaCare ® for up to 8 hours (12 hours for arthritis wraps) can increase the risk of skin irritation or burns. Use ThermaCare ® Arthritis in the gold box for the full 12 hours. ThermaCare ® and ThermaCare ® Arthritis shouldn’t be used more than seven days in a row; ThermaCare ® Menstrual shouldn’t be used more than four days in a row. If during or after this time the pain you’re treating remains unchanged or worsens, consult your doctor, as this may be a sign of a more serious condition.
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How will I know whether or not ThermaCare® has heated up to the correct temperature? How long does it take for ThermaCare® to warm up?
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ThermaCare ® has warmed up when it feels warm to the touch. Extensive testing has shown that ThermaCare ® and ThermaCare ® Arthritis heat to about 104°F (40°C) within 30 minutes and maintains this temperature for 8 and 12 hours, respectively.
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Can I use ThermaCare® for arthritis pain?
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If you have osteoarthritis, heat therapy has been found to be helpful in providing temporary relief of the minor aches and pains associated with this form of arthritis. ThermaCare ® provides an effective, portable source of heat when used as directed.
If you have rheumatoid arthritis (a much less common form of arthritis), you should talk with your doctor before using any type of heat (including ThermaCare ®) to determine if heat is helpful for this condition. If you’re unsure as to which type of arthritis you have, you should talk with your doctor before using ThermaCare ®.
You, together with your doctor, may consider using ThermaCare ® Arthritis. It provides 12 hours of heat for all-day pain relief associated with minor arthritis muscle aches and pains.
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What can I do if the product feels too hot for me?
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ThermaCare ® has been designed to deliver a comfortable, well-controlled level of heat that lasts at least 8 hours. Of course, this does not mean that it is the right amount of heat for everybody. Stop use and check skin frequently.
You may want to try wearing ThermaCare ® over a thin layer of clothing instead of directly against your skin.
If you still feel the level of heat is too high, you might want to discontinue use of the product.
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Does ThermaCare® contain magnets?
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No. ThermaCare ® doesn't contain magnets.
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How do I dispose of ThermaCare®?
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ThermaCare ® can be disposed of in your regular trash. To be safe, dispose of it 8 or 12 hours after it is out of the primary foil package or 12 hours later for arthritis products. Care should be taken to keep ThermaCare ® out of the reach of children and animals.
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Can I attach the ThermaCare® Menstrual wrap to my skin?
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The fastening adhesive on the ThermaCare ® Menstrual patch should be attached to the inside of your underwear. It wasn’t designed to be attached to the skin. For ThermaCare ® Menstrual to heat effectively, it should be attached to clothing so the dark sides of the heat cell are against your skin. Do not apply the adhesive to your skin: It may result in irritation. Also, the device may not work properly if applied incorrectly.
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How often should I check my skin for signs of irritation or burning?
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If you have sensitive skin, check every couple of hours or anytime you feel discomfort. If your skin looks or feels as if it might be burning or irritated, remove the wrap. It’s normal to notice slight redness immediately after removing the wrap. Always read the package insert before using the product.
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Is ThermaCare® recyclable?
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No. ThermaCare ® wraps aren’t recyclable. Recyclable products, like paper, plastic and glass, fall into a single material category. ThermaCare ® is made from several different materials, which means recyclers won’t accept them.
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Can I reheat/recharge my ThermaCare® wrap/patch after it stops working?
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No. Any attempt to reheat the product in a microwave oven can result in a fire.
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Does ThermaCare® contain latex?
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No. ThermaCare ® doesn't contain latex.
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Why do I need to ask my doctor before use if I’m diabetic?
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Diabetes is a complicated disease that sometimes causes poor blood circulation and decreased skin sensitivity and feeling. Since some diabetics may be more susceptible to skin irritation, skin injury or even burns than others, they first should consult with their doctor to determine if ThermaCare ® is right for them.
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Can I wash the wrap?
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Don’t wash or moisten a ThermaCare ® heat wrap or patch because it will deactivate the heat discs. While excessive moisture or wetness will affect the ability of the heat discs to heat efficiently, average body perspiration will not affect the wrap’s performance.
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Can young children wear ThermaCare®?
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We don’t recommend the use of ThermaCare ® for anyone, including children, who may not be able to remove the wrap unassisted when feeling discomfort.
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Can I use ThermaCare® with blood pressure medications, heart medications, blood thinners or antibiotics?
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We don't have any data on the effect of using ThermaCare ® while taking these medications. While we do not expect you to experience problems, if you are concerned about using heat products, please talk with your doctor and/or pharmacist. They will be able to advise you on your specific situation and determine whether ThermaCare ® is right for you. As stated on the label, you should ask your doctor before use if you have poor circulation.
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What's the difference between using ThermaCare® and taking oral pain relievers?
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Oral pain medications have to be ingested and provide relief by working through the bloodstream. ThermaCare ® provides pain relief by working directly at the site of the pain, allowing you to focus on things other than the pain and not to recognize pain sensation. ThermaCare ® also helps relieve muscular pain by relaxing the muscle and increasing local blood flow.
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Why can't I use ThermaCare® on areas with bruising or swelling?
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Heat may aggravate the injury if used on areas of swelling or bruising. Physicians and pharmacists generally recommend using ice periodically in the first 24-48 hours for injuries that can cause bruising or swelling. However, after 48 hours, heat such as that provided by ThermaCare ® has been found to effectively provide pain relief. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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Can I use ThermaCare® if I am nursing?
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We don’t expect you to experience problems. However, because infant skin is delicate, we suggest you take care not to lay the baby directly on the wrap. But if you are concerned about using heat products while nursing, please talk with your doctor.
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Can I use ThermaCare® with medicated rubs/creams/ointments or topical antibiotics?
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No. Don’t use ThermaCare ® on an area of the skin where other topical medicines (like topical antibiotics, pain relieving creams, hydrocortisone creams or poison ivy creams) have been applied within the past 24 hours because it may cause injury to the skin or may alter the effect of the topical medication.
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Can I use ThermaCare® while exercising?
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I have arthritis in both my shoulders. I live in Colorado and every time the weather changes, I am in pain. Unfortunately, I am also allergic to pain killers, so for the longest time, I just had to suffer. Then I discovered ThermaCare ® HeatWraps. The constant heat to my shoulders relieves my pain and let's me live my life how I want to. I no longer have to limit my outdoor activities, especially in winter. ThermaCare ® HeatWraps provide my only relief. I don't know what I would do without them.
Jennifer, February 20th, 2009
*Results not typical. Individual results will vary.
I fell a few years ago. I damaged my neck and shoulder. After having a metal plate surgically placed in my neck, I started to use ThermaCare® HeatWraps. They have been a lifesaver for me. I wanted to say thank you. I am a 42-year-old woman who loves your product.
Jennifer, February 5th, 2009
*Results not typical. Individual results will vary.
I was having neck pain all day the other day. I thought it was a tension headache, but nothing worked on it. I bought ThermaCare® neck HeatWraps, and they worked wonderfully! After two hours, my neck wasn’t hurting and isn’t hurting now. Thanks ThermaCare!
Christina, March 3rd, 2009
*Results not typical. Individual results will vary.
I love the Menstrual Relief patches! They make me feel like any other normal day - if not even better. They are the best thing you guys could have made. I recommend them to every one of my girlfriends now. They have now even gotten hooked on them too! I just wanted to say thank you to you guys for being there for me every time of the month! :)
Caitlyn, February 5th, 2009
*Results not typical. Individual results will vary.
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