Heat Therapy is most often used for Pain.

Heat Therapy

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•Last Updated: August 28, 2025

Heat therapy involves applying dry heat (heating pads or saunas) or moist heat (steamed towels, hot baths) to various parts of the body to improve the circulation of blood, ease pain and discomfort, and reduce muscle soreness.

Last Updated:August 28, 2025

Research FeedRead all studies

The effects of cold-water and hot-water immersion on exercise recovery in women

In this randomized controlled trial in 30 women (ages 18 to 35), neither cold-water immersion nor hot-water immersion after exercise improved muscle soreness or muscle recovery over the next several days.

Electrophysical therapies for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis

The dirt on low back pain

Can heat therapy treat or prevent COVID-19?

Saunas and cardiovascular function: Turn on the heart

Heat Therapy: Up-to-date evidence.