Handwarmers - for cold achy hands

There are many types of handwarmers and foot warmers?. Depending on how you plan to use it will dictate which kind is best for you. Here is a list of most of the different types available with some of the advantages as well as disadvantages.

1) Microwavable HandWarmers: This type has become more popular in the past several years. They are easy to use, usually about 2 minutes in the microwave. Some people have heated them in a crock pot or in the oven, however this does take a lot longer to warm and is not as convenient. (When heated in the oven the temperature should never go above 200 degrees).

The heat will last from around ½ hour to one hour for this type of heating pad. There are different “fillers” used for the microwave heating pads, they include cherry pits, see cherry pit handwarmers, corn, rice, grains, pop corn, flax seed, and “plastic” microbeads and Gel packs

Most of this type can also be used as a cold pack. Placing the pack in a plastic bag and putting them in the freezer works well. It takes an hour or two to get cold. However, you may be ale to keep them in the freezer for much longer periods of time.

Also some of this type are washable or have a removable cover – please follow directions for your specific type of heating pad.

Battery or electric handwarmers: These warmers have battery operated heaters built into the insole of the slipper or into the mitt.

Light Fluid hand warmers: These have been around for years and are extremely portable. Used mostly for hand warmers this is about the sizes of a cigarette lighter, is filled with fluid and then lit. Stays warm for up to 24 hours in your pocket, gloves etc.

Chemical reaction Hand warmers: The heat is generated when two chemicals are mixed together. A chemical reaction takes place and “heat” is given off. Although this may sound a little dangerous, they are for the most part easy to use and safe. Heat usually last about 20 minutesSome can be re-used and other are one-time disposable.Warm Me Ups.com .

Here is list of other things you can do if you have a problem with cold hands and feet.

* Don't smoke. It impairs circulation.

* Avoid caffeine. It constricts blood vessels.

* Avoid handling cold objects. Use ice tongs to pick up ice cubes, for instance.

* With fingers outstretched, swing your arms in large circles, like a baseball pitcher warming up for a game. This may increase blood flow to the fingers. (Don't do this if you have bursitis or back problems!)

* Do not wear footwear that is tight-fitting.

* Wiggle your toes. It may help keep them warm as a result of increased blood flow.

* Practice a relaxation technique, such as biofeedback.