Harnessing the heat: a comprehensive review of heat therapy's role in managing lumbar pain.

Abstract

Heat therapy has gained considerable attention as a noninvasive treatment for low back pain, a condition that affects a significant proportion of the world's population. This review examines the physiological mechanisms behind heat therapy, its efficacy in relieving pain, and its role in improving mobility and quality of life. By improving blood circulation, reducing muscle stiffness, and reducing inflammation, heat therapy offers promise as an alternative or complement to conventional treatments. Various methods, including heat packs and thermal pillows, have been studied for their effects on acute and chronic pain. This review highlights key findings from clinical trials and systematic analyses, demonstrating significant reductions in pain intensity and functional impairment. Despite its benefits, aspects such as patient compliance and safety remain important factors in its clinical use. Future research should focus on optimizing treatment parameters and integrating heat therapy with other rehabilitation strategies to maximize its therapeutic potential. This comprehensive review highlights the need for a broader perspective and further research on the long-term effectiveness of heat-based interventions in the treatment of low back pain.