Health Tip: Prevent Burns From a Heating Pad

Don't use on the same injury for more than 20 minutes

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(HealthDay News) -- A heating pad is often recommended to treat sore muscles or muscle spasms. But it's important to follow safety precautions when using one.

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Here are suggestions for protecting your skin and preventing burns when using a heating pad, courtesy of the University of Missouri Health Care system:

• Always place a piece of fabric between the heating pad and your skin.
• Avoid turning the heating pad on a setting higher than medium.
• Use a heating pad with a timer, so that it will automatically turn off if you fall asleep.
• Never use the heating pad on one area of your body for more than 15-20 minutes at a time.
• Don't apply a heating pad to an area that feels numb or tingly.

-- Diana Kohnle