Cura-Heat Back and Shoulder Pain Heat Pack > Reviews (4)

Cura-Heat are produced by a company called Kobayashi.

Cura-Heat are 'air activated' heat packs which are designed to provide targeted relief for various types of pain. There are packs available for period pain but the most common Cura-Heat is designed for back and shoulder pain.

Cura-Heat

Cura-Heat for back and shoulder pain, is designed to offer 12hours of warming relief. It should be applied over the top of clothing near the area which is causing discomfort - it should never be applied direct to skin. This particular version of Cura-Heat can be used pn the lower and upper back, the shoulders and around the neck area.

Cura-Heat is non-medicinal but shouldn't be used alongside warming or rub creams in the same area. It is designed for adult use only and those who are pregnant or have certain health conditions should seek medical advice before using this product. Cura-Heat contains iron as well as activated carbon and water.This version of Cura-Heat is in an orange box. Inside, each pack is individually packaged in a sealed packet. The packets should only be removed as and when they are needed as once exposed to air, they start to work. Each pack is for one use only. Once applied, it is recommended that you do not put pressure on the pack or sleep wearing it.

• Pack of 1 - Poundland (£1.00)
• Pack of 3 - Boots (£2.64), Asda (£2.00) and Tesco (£3.00)
• Pack of 7 - Boots (£5.75)

My Experience

A few years ago I damaged the bottom of my back. My experience is that when you first damage your back, the pain never really goes away! I went through 18 months of discomfort in college as I would be sitting of a period of time and it would get painfull leading me to taking painkillers regularly. I still suffer now - not quite as bad as before but every few weeks it flares up.

Cura-Heat was recommended to me by my Dad and my sister. I purchase my boxes from Asda and feel that £2.00 for 3 is a decent enough price. When my back starts to play up at home, I choose to use these but prefer to take stronger painkillers when out and about as it is more convenient.

The actual Cura-Heat backs are a decent size measuring approx 13x9cm. I am aware that Cura-Heat offer larger packs which would be great for those suffering with wide spread pain. One side of the heat pack has a white, see through appearance and reminds me of a sanitary pad (hence why I won't wear it outdoors just in case!) and is filled with a squidgy, powder like filling. The back of the pack has a label which needs to be removed and this reveals the sticky part of the pack.

Sticking the pack to my back is very easy and it stays neatly in place. If you need to apply it to an awkward area, I would recommend asking someone else to do it as it can be difficult to ensure it is in the correct place. It doesn't feel heavy or intrusive but I am aware that it is there. I normally stick it to my pyjama or vest top and it doesn't damage the material when in place or when it is removed. I find the pack works best when I wear thin, but not paper thin clothing.

They weren't any good on a loose top I had on but find them to be perfect for slightly 'tighter' clothing.

Does It Work?

Yes - Cura-Heat does offer relief to mild-moderate discomfort but for anything more I would combine with an oral painkiller as well. I normally apply the pack to my lower back (just above my underwear) and right in the middle of my back as this is where I experience the most discomfort. I also used these packs when I suffered from a weird pain in my neck and had equally decent results.

Once in place. these packs heat up quite quickly. They do not become roasting hot when in place but do provide ample relief to make me more comfortable and are pleasantly warm to the touch. It is important to allow air to circulate around the pad and ensure the heat is continuous. I usually apply the pack when I have a lot to be getting on with around the house and it stays neatly in place as I clean and tidy up.

The relief from each pack is great. The heat penetrates through my top very well and provides a pleasant, warming sensation to my back (or neck). I wouldn't say it is great when my back is really sore but when it is causing me discomfort, it soothes the area and generally makes me more comfortable. I can get on with whatever I need to do without wincing in pain constantly and I generally feel more relaxed and less agitated by my back pain when using these packs.

The heat is consistent and I have found these pads to offer around 10 hours of noticeable relief before the heat starts to fade and render the packs ineffective. This isn't bad but if you only need to use them for a short while, it does seem a bit of a waste given they can only be used once before being disposed of. I do find I can move and re-position the pad without losing any stickiness during the time it is warm.

Conclusion

Overall I can recommend Cura-Heat. They work well and have provided me with much needed relief from back and neck discomfort. Just don't expect miracles as sometimes something a bit more direct and strong is required (ie a muscle rub and Nurofen!). I have experienced no reaction to these pads and I am always careful to avoid skin contact with me.

Overall 4 stars :)

Thanks for reading!