Heat Patches

Gentle, steady warmth is a popular way to ease muscle aches and stiffness without taking a tablet. This range brings together air-activated heat patches, wraps and a warming belt from ThermaCare, Deep Heat and Medicare, along with HotHands warmers for cold hands on winter days.

Most heat patches warm up once the pack is opened and air reaches the contents, then give warmth for several hours, as stated on the pack. Small adhesive patches suit a specific spot on the back or shoulder, while wraps and belts, such as ThermaCare Lower Back and Hip or the Deep Heat warming belt, hold the heat around a wider area and stay in place as you move. Follow the wear time on the pack, do not use on broken skin, and take extra care if you have diabetes, poor circulation or reduced feeling in the skin.

All heat products here are stocked at Leahy's Pharmacy, a family-run Irish pharmacy in Tralee, Co. Kerry, and our pharmacists are happy to help you choose. Avoid using a heat patch at the same time as a warming rub. If you prefer a gel or spray, see our muscle rubs.

9 products

Thermacare Back 2s — Thermacare
€14,99
Thermacare Back 2s
Hothands Warmers — Hothands
€1,90
Hothands Warmers

Related categories

Muscle RubsMuscle Rubs Joint SupportsJoint Supports Pain Relief & MigrainePain Relief & Migraine Sports TapeSports Tape

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a heat patch and a heat wrap? +
A heat patch is a small adhesive pad that sticks to the skin or clothing over one area, such as the neck or a spot on the back. A heat wrap or belt, like ThermaCare Lower Back and Hip or the Deep Heat warming belt, fits around the body and covers a larger area. Wraps tend to stay in place better when you are moving around.
How long can I wear a heat patch? +
Wear time varies between products, so always follow the instructions on the pack. Many patches give warmth for several hours, and some are designed to be worn during the day only. Check your skin regularly, and remove the patch if it feels too hot or your skin becomes red or uncomfortable. Do not wear more than one patch on the same area.
Can I use a heat patch with a muscle rub? +
No, it is best not to. Warming rubs and gels already create a heating sensation on the skin, and adding a heat patch on top can make the skin too hot and cause irritation or burns. Use one or the other, and wait until any rub has been washed off before applying a patch. Our pharmacist can suggest which approach suits you.
Who should be careful with heat pads? +
Take extra care, or speak to our pharmacist first, if you have diabetes, poor circulation, reduced feeling in the skin or very sensitive skin, as you may not notice if a patch gets too hot. Heat products should not be used on children unless the pack says so, on broken or swollen skin, or by anyone who cannot remove the patch themselves.