Just a little question about heating pads:)

I have heard a lot of people talk about heating pads for pain both before and after surgery. Doesn't this make the swelling go up? And if it does, wouldn't that make the pain worse?
Just curious! I would really like to try it, but I have so much swelling now from endo and I don't want to make it worse!
Thankyou! to all!!
Peanut

I have had the heating pad on anytime I get swelling or have pains in my belly, and usually put it on low to go to sleep. My DH is worried that I turn it on too high and will burn myself in the numb spot but I think it feels good when the heat works itself deep. I don't think the heat hurts anything, and it will relax the muscles you tense when something hurts or you overdo. You might check with your DR if you are worried about it, but I've found that alternating the heat with an ice bag on problem spots really felt good.

I used mine mostly on my back, to help with gas pains. They even gave me one to use in the hospital for the same reason. It *really* helped.

Thanks to all-I tried it and YES YES YES!
Much better than a hot towel or water bottle!
thanks you!
Peanut

Peanut, heating pads and anything hot are soooo soothing when you're in pain

Before you take one with you to the castle, check your hospital's policy on this issue: my hospital kit clearly stated that heating pads were a Still don't know why and forgot to ask.

I think it feels so good having the heat go deep to where most of my pain is. The stitches on the inside.
So my vote is for the heating pad.
Pat

As with anything else discussed here, please check with your doctor before using a heating pad after your surgery.

Please ask your dr before using one! I used one after surgery and the nurse told me not to; you can easily burn the skin, especially in the numb areas of the incision, belly button, etc. Please ask first! I had some redness in one numb area that took a week to disappear fully.