Hot Packs: HSA Eligibility

What are hot packs?

Hot packs are a mainstay in countless American homes to treat both major and minor muscle/joint pain when they arise, as they are one of the most effective means available of soothing muscles and joints around or on an injured body part (Verywell Health).

What exactly does a hot pack do?

A hot pack is an Over-the-Counter (OTC) medical product eligible for reimbursement with a consumer-directed healthcare account. A hot pack is an object that relieves muscle tension, swelling, and adds comfort by being wrapped around, or placed on a part of the body. A heating pad usually is filled with a material that can be microwaved in order to apply the desired temperature to the neck. Usually a product that is labelled as a hot pack is also useful as a cold pack, and vice versa. However, there are some types of hot or cold pack that only provide one of the two functions.

Some hot packs may be scented for calming or relaxing aesthetics. Some hot packs may also use electrical power, via a power outlet and/or batteries in order to provide their own heat.

Hot packs allow application of heat to the body, which soothes and relaxes muscles. Muscles may become tense due to repetitive labor, long periods spent bent over a desk or workstation, or physical exertion. Heat on muscles may also be called thermotherapy or therapeutic heat. Therapeutic heat might also help relieve pain and tension, especially in knotted areas. The exact mechanisms are not understood, but heat is an excellent way to relieve the symptoms of non-inflammatory body pain (Physio Works).