How To Safely Use Your Wheat Bag
After noticing a few reports in the media of improper use of wheat bags and the injuries that can result we wanted to remind you of how to use your wheat bag safely.
1) Use a wheat bag that is sized appropriately for the area being treated.
2) Wheat bags are designed for therapeutic use, not as general heaters, if the goal is purely to warm up a large part of your body, it is best to take a hot bath, use a hot water bottle, electric heat pad, or electric blanket with a thermostat. Turn up the heating.
3) Remember that older people sometimes can have reduced circulation that makes them more susceptible to sustaining burns as they may not be able to discern if it is too hot. Make sure if they are using wheat bags, they are safe to do so and understand the risks.
4) Other medical conditions can result in areas of reduced sensation, potentially resulting in burns- reduced circulation or sensation from conditions like diabetes, peripheral neuropathies, side effects of medications like chemotherapy, or nerve damage from surgery, injury, or disease.
Adhere To The Information On The Packaging
It is vital that wheat bags are used according to the information on the packaging.
Some have alternate fillings such as lupins which are repeated to hold the heat longer than wheat, nonetheless, use the directions appropriate for the item you have purchased.
Place the bag in a microwave and heat for 20-30 seconds. Lay down or sit and THEN place it on your body. The bags are not intended to be sat on or laid on.
Place the wheat bag on your body. And relax.
Do not overheat, stack or leave your wheat bag unattended. It is possible for wheat bags to spontaneously combust when directions are not attended to.
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This blog was written by Nicole Brammy from the City East Physio practice.