(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best hot & cold therapies

Of all the things I've tried I think Valerian Root works the best for me.

Most of the things people always recommend have helped at least a little bit, especially when using them together.

Melatonin can be really good but most people take way too much, and there can be side effects and it can sometimes lose it's effectiveness too quickly for a lot of people. I'd definitely research that one before taking it even though its arguably the most "natural" of all because our body produces it... it can alter how your body does produce your own and really mess with your circadian rhythms and stuff.

Magnesium helped me fall asleep when I was younger, but now sometimes it actually gives me energy, so I need to learn more about how it works.

PassionFlower is good for relaxation too.



Chamomile tea, helps a little, so on a night you don't really need it that much or if you've been taking other stuff that has been leaving you groggy or logy the next day its a good alternative to give your body a break from other stuff.

Valerian root capsules smell AWFUL lol but they work very very well for me. The bottle usually says 3 capsules for insomnia but sometimes I'll even just take one or two during the day for anxiety.

Even warm milk helps me sometimes, especially if I'm also taking something else with it.


I use relaxation music with headphones when my insomnia or anxiety is really bad.


Also you might try aromatherapy, like lavender diffusers. Years ago my wife bought me a thing you can heat up in the microwave and put on your neck for pain, and it releases lavender scent, so that is really soothing/relaxing. I did the same thing with a rice sock the other day to deal with weather anxiety, lol, and it was very soothing as well.

The neck thing is weighted and that can be relaxing too, which reminds me of weighted blankets. I've never tried them but I do sleep better with heavier blankets if they're not too warm so I can see why they might be helpful.



And... my last resort... is antihistamines. They work the best for me... but they make me feel bleh the next day and dry out my sinuses so I've been trying to avoid them.



Hope you're able to find something that works for you :)

I'm so sorry you're in pain! The only OTC advice I can offer is these cool gel sheets, which I buy in bulk for migraines. You can find them at most Walgreens, too. They don't make the pain go away, but they can help make it more bearable while you wait for the Excedrin PM to take the edge off and help you sleep.

When you are able to see a doctor, I would ask for abortive medicines to try, like triptans, and ask about starting the two-month free trial for the new preventative drug Aimovig. It's the best and fastest working preventative I've tried in the past decade (you give yourself a shot in the thigh every month).

I wish there were more I could offer, but ultimately the best help you can get is in the form of prescriptions.

I have just come out of a year and a half of extreme neck/shoulder/upper back problems that truly made me want to kill myself so I sympathize, they can be utterly debilitating. None of my advice is a quick fix (I'm still struggling with it) but if I can be of any help, here's my experience:

I was unfortunately strangely reactive to massage (which I'd always been fine with before), so in my case, all well meaning treatments like massage, osteopathic manipulation, acupuncture, and trigger point injections were making it worse, because my body would react poorly to the treatment and tighten up worse. I found the best thing that helped me was quitting all messing around with my neck and just focusing on relaxation, heat, and SLOW guided strengthening from a very good PT. It's good that you're strength training, but it might be best to get extremely detailed advice on form, and have someone monitor you to see if an exercise is helping or hurting. You also might be doing too much.

The other thing that helped me was going to a therapist who did guided relaxation with me. You can find guided meditation relaxation videos on youtube. Do them daily. The pain causes us to hold onto the tension even more, because of fear. It's a constant task to remind yourself to relax all day long.

I take 400mg of Magnesium Glycinate a day, 800mg on days I'm feeling worse.

I live in hot baths with Epsom salts.

Weed is a big relaxation bomb for the muscles, if you can get ahold of some (I'm lucky to live in a legal state). Muscle relaxers are also a good tool periodically. If you're really wracked up, Valium is by far the best muscle relaxer I've tried, it seems to reset everything. However, be very careful not to take it too often: I take it no more than two times a month because you can very quickly get dependent and then suffer withdrawals.

Periodic rest is important. If your muscles are becoming exhausted, lie down for 45 minutes on your back and let them rest. We compensate with the wrong muscle patterns when the muscles get exhausted.

I have this microwaveable neck wrap, 1.5 minutes in the microwave, feels so good!: https://www.amazon.com/Huggaroo-Microwavable-Heating-Herbal-Aromatherapy/dp/B071JFYTLD

It was a 2018 gift, but this cute hot water bottle. My feet are freezing most of the year but fall/winter especially. I can't sleep if my feet are cold so my husband bought me this. I fill this with hot water when I shower at night, pop it at the foot of the bed, and it makes sleeping SO much more comfortable.

Plus the cover is super cute and keeps things from getting too hot. :)

First off- disclaimer - this is general advice, I am not giving you medical advice, I am not your doctor, I cannot diagnose or treat any conditions through the internet.

Chalazia once they become firm and not swollen or red are often resistant to treatment but they can be treated with hot compresses.

A hordeolum is a warm, swollen, tender meibomian gland and these respond better to treatment with compresses. They can sort of "burn out" and become a firm, nontender, chalazion.

> I'm almost always in public so it's kind of impossible to carry a facecloth around with me, soaking my eye all day.

It sounds like someone didn't explain how to do compresses to you. First off, if you're going to use a washcloth you need a FRESH, clean washcloth each time so hanging around to one washcloth all day is wrong right off the bat. Second, you don't need to soak your eye all day. You need about 10 minutes of continuous heat applied to your eyelids followed by massaging the oil glands and washing your eyelashes. This video explains the compresses and massage.. After you do this, take a clean washcloth with some baby shampoo and scrub your eyelashes clean then rinse well.

Blepharitis, hordeola, and chalazia are treated by doing that whole thing two or three times per day. Do it once when you wake up, once after work, once before bed. No need to carry anything around.

People think a washcloth is effective but really like the video shows this is most easily done by buying a hot compress eye mask like this thing from amazon. It's near impossible to keep a washcloth hot for 6 minutes. You end up having to rewarm it, your eyelids have cooled off by the time you rewarm it, and then you're back at square one and never get enough heat to the oil glands where it is needed.


These are caused by blocked meibomian oil glands. These glands sit right behind your eyelashes.


>I also am someone who wears makeup every. day. Do I REALLY have to give up wearing it?

If you are putting mascara and eyeliner on every day then yes, you should maybe give that up for a while. If you keep plugging up those glands every day while they're obviously inflamed you're going to get more of them.


> I can make a trip to my family doctor, optometrist or an ophthalmologist, but the healthcare where I live sucks and I probably wouldn't get in to see either for a month+.

I really hope you are seeing an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist at least yearly if you are wearing contacts!! Some of this post makes it seem like you've been wearing contacts this whole time but haven't had an eye doctor look at your eyes. That's worrisome and can be way, way more dangerous than a chalazion.

Sort of joining in the chorus here, but yep, that sounds like a muscle spasm. Chronic, gnarly, treatment-resistant muscle spasms are super common with EDS- they're usually associated with a particularly unstable joint, what your muscles freak out overcompensating for, but can be caused by other things as well.

The "zingy" nerve pain is probably caused by impingement- either by the unstable joint subluxing onto it, or the spasmed muscles squeezing the crap out of it. Given your description of the timing, it's probably a subluxation. My random IANAD guess would be AC joint, just because your description sounds a lot like what happens when mine slips.

Treating these things is a bitch and a half. Here are some of the things I do, which help somewhat.

• When it first starts, some self-administered trigger-point masage can sometimes stop it. Here are some tools I use: Neck knobby thing, spine knobby thing, foam roller. You can also use tennis balls or lacross balls, but I uh.. broke them \^\^;;;
  
• Aspercreme / Blue Emu - I find the classic Trolamine Salicylate works best for me, but if you have an aspirin allergy, or if Lidocaine works better for you, they make a version with that as the active instead. There's also a spray form for when an area is too tender to touch. They can be a little pricey, but Amazon has a Subscribe & Save discount on them, which helps.
  
• Combine the above with Tiger Balm or Icy Hot, if you can tolerate them, and I find it makes them more effective than either separately. I think they maybe help the ingredients in the above penetrate better?
  
• If you can get it, adding a final layer of CBD lotion or oil is extra effective. I use Ethos Muscle Melt.
  
• Slap a quality heating pad with a washable cover on the above and bake that shit in- (NOTE: I AM DEFINITELY NOT A DOCTOR, AND THE ASPERCREME LABEL SPECIFICALLY SAYS NOT TO DO THIS but damned if it isn't effective and at this point I'll do anything that works?)
  
• If that fails, grab some alcohol swabs to wipe all that shit I just recommended off from a few spots and then use a TENS unit.
  
• Medicate: this part is obviously dependent on your own rxs and state legislature, etc, but muscle relaxants and CBD are helpful things to have. For an OTC option, I've found that some antihistamines can be useful, but then again I've got MCAS as a complication so YMMV.
  
• Physical therapy- PTs often recommend certain stretches to help prevent spasms, but in my experience, every single time they have at best done nothing and at worst they've triggered/exacerbated them. I have had some good results with exercises designed to strengthen the unstable joint that caused the whole mess, though-
  very light, irritatingly soft and repetitive exercises that drive me crazy but actually are maybe kind of effective? BUT I AM NOT A DOCTOR.
  
  Hopefully this will be of some use. I swear some of the worst pain I've experienced in EDS has been from muscle spasms, geez.

Just finished moving from the East coast to the West coast, we drove with our two dogs too. That was fun.

1. Crosswords, madlibs, and other games are a must-have. If you like audiobooks or podcasts those are good too.
   
   
2. I like leggings and a comfy shirt (and bralette). Also I don't wear shoes during road trips.
   
   
3. Snacks, drinks, over the counter pain killers, and heating pads. You will be uncomfortable, it helps give you some relief.
   
   
4. We did fast food and takeout since we only had 3 days on the road and had dogs in the car. We didn't have room for a cooler either. I ate a lot of broccoli beef and sushi.
   
   
5. Haven't been to most places between the two states but Salt Lake City is a pretty place, also Minneapolis (Mall of America) is cool if you're going that far north.
   
   Additionally make sure to keep your gas above half a tank and make sure you get a general check up on the car before you go. We were an hour outside of Little Rock and the freeway was at a complete stop (two 15 wheelers hit each other head on). Took us 4 hours to move a mile. Multiple cars ran out of gas during that time.
   
   Also, have fun!

I was going to ask if you've been checked for raynaud. It makes sense getting colder plus you need to try not to get horribly cold. I've heard Cuddle duds were good. Think thermal. I'm unsure about the sizes (they look small)but maybe thermal type would really help you. These look nice for plus sizes. In'voland Women's Plus Size Cotton Thermal Underwear Long Johns Set Solid Top & Bottom Fleece Lined,Champlain Blue,20W/3XL https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078NQMDH1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_cHoXBbRV0W9JY
For the bed a heating pad would also keep help if you get extremely cold. I'm sure you've got an electric blanket but when you just can't get warm. The new heating pads are amazing. I've got this one and it's amazing. While some feel the heat isn't as hot (you can't burn yourself) i feel it sinks in deeper due to the continual even heat. PureRelief XL – King Size Heating Pad with Fast-Heating Technology, 6 Temperature Settings, Convenient Storage Bag – Turquoise Blue (12" x 24") https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KVYTV7M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_-IoXBbSVZYW8K the Big difference between different brands are settings and if it's stay on or auto off. There's also ones that are big squares.

Orange already covered most of what I would recommend.

I will say though 6 hours isn't all that much to a puppy, assuming he's ~3-4 months old you probably want to stop once or twice just to let him potty. that's not even a full night of sleep for context, something I'm sure you hope he can sleep through in the very near future. Puppies (and dogs in general) sleep a lot more than humans do, typically falling in the 12+hour/day range.

I'd expect the pup is getting to play with littermates and will be pretty tired before you pick him up, and will fall more-or-less right to sleep.

Have a crate, and try to make it as comfortable as possible, old towels or blankets at the bottom that can be removed in case of accidents, and nested in otherwise. Some way to provide water. Either Frozen Water bottles, or heated pads depending on the dog may help it settle and get comfortable as well, breeder might be able to make recommendations here.

Don't expect the pup to love you right away. It is a sammy so there's pretty good odds it will love you immediately, but at the end of the day you're a stranger stealing him from the family he knows. Just try to give him a safe space that is his - honestly sitting in that space and forcing yourself on him may make things worse instead of better.

Make sure the pups needs are met and you stop to give it potty breaks - especially if you notice it drinking a lot, but 6 hours should be fine w/o much issue.

Hell yeah, brother! Here's to three days of lounging on the couch!

Side note... you'll want a good ice pack that can be replenished with ease. I used one of these. With two, you can keep one on standby.

Also, go ahead and buy some spandex-ish boxer briefs (Hanes Max Cool or whatever they're called are awesome) and some jockstraps. Wear the jockstrap under the boxer briefs and wear some gym shorts over those. Put the ice pack right on the goods over the boxers. It won't be harshly cold, but it will feel GOOD.

One other thing: You'll want a cane or walking stick. It really makes life easier when you absolutely have to get up and walk around.

I hope you have someone to wait on you hand and foot, because getting up SUCKS.

If you are still having a headache try:

• Excedrin migraine. Or something with caffeine. Caffeine is the difference between normal Excedrin and Excedrin Migraine.
  
  
• An icepack - my fav icepack I have been through many, many icepacks LOL
  
  
• If it is coming from your neck biofreeze can really help
  
  
• Take a nap in a dark room and/or use an eyemask
  
  I hope you feel better!

Glad you're feeling better. And no, helping yourself feel better is not a crime in my books although I am a big wuss and wouldn't try anything without a doctor's script.

Oh, I thought these might help you. [Cool gel eye mask] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002OSWW3O/ref=s9_al_bw_g121_i1) and cool sticky sheets. The sticky sheets is on sale at woolies. I wish I could go buy some. And crank up the aircon in the middle of winter.

I get pretty bad migraines from time to time and the only thing that helps me is a dark room and ice cold cloth on my eyes. This would be extremely relaxing to me.

If I won, cute cupcake themed fabric or anything that's brightly colored with sprinkles/polka dots on it. ^_^

FLAX

what worked for me was:

• stopping the exercises that were irritating my shoulder.
  
  I haven't bench pressed in about 1.5 years. I do sets of pushups, around 35, and I do some pec machine flys.
  
  
• I did PT for as long as my insurance allowed.
  
  The stretching my therapist did would make my shoulder feel great.
  
  
• I've included rotator cuff stretches to the stretch routine I do after every workout. I also warm them up before my upper body workouts with exercises my therapist gave me.
  
  
• I religiously did the exercises that my therapist gave me. I also modified my exercises for my shoulders, back & chest as recommended by my PT.
  
  
• Ice is your friend. After my upperbody workouts I would put a big bag of ice on my shoulder. It's gotten to the point that I can work out and I don't need the ice bag but I usually do it anyway.
  
  
• Be disciplined about everything. If you do the stretches once in a while or the exercises once in a while you'll never get better.
  
  
• Ibruprofen is also your friend. After workouts I take ibruprofen in addition to the ice.
  
  1.5 years ago I couldn't do one body weight pullup without a lot of pain. Now I do 3 sets (between 9-15 reps) each upper body workout. However I can over do it and I'll get a little sore. Ice helps clear it up.
  
  I might try benching again. Maybe once I'm up to 50 reps on my sets of pushups.
  
  Everyone is different. Age, how well you recover, your tolerance for aches & pains and the severity of the injury will impact your recovery.
  
  If you're very active and the injury is impacting your ability to play sports or do other stuff then surgery might a quicker solution. I had a friend who was a drummer who had a similar injury. He got the surgery done because the pain was impacting his drum playing.

I suffer from migraines and lately they have been horrible. Due to some health issues I have been having to take medications that side effects are migraines. I just spent the whole day in bed due to one bad one. I have two items that I badly need but any item would be greatly appreciated.

My currently eye mask is falling apart and can't even wear it this eyemask would be wonderful. It keeps out the dark, which is very important since when I has a migraine I get light sensitive.

The other item is an icepack. Cold really seems to help with the pain. I have only one icepack that slightly works. It only stays cold for a few minutes than takes like 6 hours to freeze. This icepack has lots of good reviews.

I really feel for you guys. Here are some tricks of the roofing trade:

• Make lemonade. The electrolytes will do you wonders, and anything to help your disposition is a boon. We'd make Country Time and fill up a 5gallon cooler, but if you're home, the homemade method is better.
  
• Find one of these things: ice bags. Use it where you like. We'd keep them in coolers, and if when we stopped for a smoke, we'd place them on the back of our necks.
  
• Don't eat heavy meals; get you calories through milkshakes or smoothies.
  
• Use a handkerchief, wet it with water, and tie loosely around your neck. One also works well under a ballcap.
  
• You'll want to be outside, but guess what? Everything outside wants your blood. Make homemade, non-toxic bug spray. When I make mine, I double the oil dosage, and skip the water and glycerin and fill up only one bottle.
  
• Soak your feet in cold water. As soon as I got home, I would take a shower, but when I got out, I would still be sweating from cooling down sans-rooftop. Soaking my feet in a cool or cold water bath brought my core temp down quickly.

I have degenerative disk disease in my spine. It causes chronic pain. For me, heat is extremely helpful. So on my 15-20 list you will find thermacare for 19.01 and is prime eligible

I am sure there are plenty of others who have great needs or even greater needs then I.

Thank you for doing a contest that can make life a little easier for someone.

I just got a new one from Amazon after my last one crapped out. Its a wrap around and super soft. The best part is the company has a lifetime warrenty, all you have to do is contact them and they will replace.

Check this out at Amazon.com
XL Heating Pad with Auto Off, Moist/Dry Electric Heating Therapeutic Wrap, 12" x 24" Ultra-Soft King Size, Machine Washable, Pain Relief for Back, Neck and Shoulder, Knee, Safe for Pet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079DQ6QG9/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_niOTDbQX37WTJ

These really are the best:

http://www.amazon.com/Fytto-ICE-Large-Dark-Blue/dp/B007IKA67M/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1406076178&sr=8-5&keywords=mueller+ice+pack

Had them for years and they are still perfect. Go to any medical supply story and get the wide mouth ones so it's easier to put ice in it. Avoid fake ice packs like the plague. Real ice maintains a constant temperature much better.

Cheers

Migraines are the WORST. Cluster headaches behind my left eye aren't much better. This is one thing that tends to help me A LOT while I'm waiting for meds to kick in. I actually find it helps the meds work better.

http://www.amazon.com/Cryoderm-Pain-Relieving-Roll--3oz/dp/B004TGZDKS/ref=sr_sp-atf_image_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1394305563&sr=8-2&keywords=cryoderm

This is topical. You roll it onto your head and it makes it super tingly. It is a GREAT distraction and forces you to let go of tension. You can't concentrate on the tension over the tingling, it's impossible. I think by letting go of the tension, the blood flow to my head is better and the meds work better/quicker.

Anyway, I hope you are feeling 100000x better really soon.

It doesn't get too cold where I live, so layers usually works pretty well.

But when I go places that are colder in the winter I like to buy those hand warmers that hunters & whatnot use. Put in shoes&gloves=toasty.

I found this, too.

http://www.amazon.com/Medi-Temp-Head-Neck-Hot-Cold-Therapy/dp/B000A3IP0E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1394346047&sr=8-1&keywords=ice+pack+for+head

That is the one I bought, but it's way too cold if you use it that way so I have to turn it inside out...hence the part that is out is white and filled with instructions. It is pretty funny really. I had to take a "step outside and look at yourself" moment when I realized earlier I was sitting on the toilet with this "hat" on singing to my fiance about how happy I was to have the poops. He's a lucky man, no?

Oh and the movie is called Through the Never..it's a weird type of movie mixed in with concert footage...interesting so far.

Edited to say, I'm sorry about your reflux! :( my OB okayed me to keep taking my prilosec, thankfully. Reflux sucks.

Snow, snow, go away

A hot/cold pack and a fantastical, magical book

You gift too damn much lady! You're too nice to us peasant folk. Oh and you're pretty. But I'm only required to tell you that ;)

There are electric heating pads designed specifically for shoulders. This one is a bit pricey but it's a trusted brand, I got it earlier this year for my sister and she loves it: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GC1YAC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I had similar issue but its been about 4+ years & mine has improved a lot. I was on restasis & over the counter eye drops.

I highly recommend you use eye heat mask once a day & every morning when you take a shower... walk up to shower head and let your eye lids feel the force of warm/hot water. I do this for about minute each eye. It will massage the eye & improve your tears. It has become my routine because you take shower every morning anyways. This trick is similar to treatment called Lipoflow for dry eyes. This is from lot of research I have done on reddit & other online resources.

Also get Bilberry its natual for dry eyes.

https://www.amazon.com/Thermalon-24342-Dry-Eye-Compress/dp/B004385RPS/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1485872080&sr=8-3&keywords=eye+mask+dry+eye

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00W84K9V6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It's not a pillow, but one of my fav things in the world is a hot water bottle like this: https://www.amazon.com/Premium-Classic-Rubber-Bottle-Purple/dp/B01KSLPKS2/ref=sr_1_8_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1518421496&sr=1-8&keywords=hot+water+bottle

It's a soft rubber bottle that you fill with hot water out of a kettle (obvs don't fill it up all the way, just 2/3 full). It fits inside a soft cover and when you hug it, it's just so warm and soothing. Everytime I have period pains or a bellyache this is my go to solution. Or any kind of aches really. Or when I'm sick. This stuff is amazing and so comforting.

The internet community has gotchu!! It's how I cheered myself through my insertion :) I also highly recommend a hot water bottle/bag to rest on your abdomen after the insertion, mine helped allll the cramps and twinges I felt later that day and night!

I feel like it's a bit too late at this point, but next time there's a harsh winter and you don't have a car heater, invest in some cheap reusable hand warmers. You can just boil them after each use and then the're ready to go for another ~30 minutes of really nice heat. Slip them in your mittens or gloves if you have to use your hands.

While I'd definitely recommend a store bought one, you can make your own in a pinch, like so:

1. Grab a couple of large socks (make sure they contain no synthetic materials such as polyester)
   
   
   
   
2. Fill them with rice
   
   
   
   
   
3. Microwave for 1-2 minutes (keep an eye on them to make sure there's no smoking)
   
   
   
   
4. Stretch flat and apply where needed
   
   
   
   
   They retain heat for an ridiculously long time, so it's definitely useful.
   
   
   
   
   
   Source: only person in a household of 4 who didn't have to suffer cramps, and therefore catered to those who did. - -""

Giving out ointment recos like Tigerbalm, roller balls like Cryoderm Pain Relieving Roll-on, and peppermint oil. Makes me feel like I'm helping.

Not a reusable ice pack, but I've had some luck with these cooling patches : BeKoool Cooling Relief for Migraine Soft Gel Sheets, Pack of 3 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004AI8ZE6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Kre4Cb4PFW6HH

I don't have endo, but I can empathize a little. My last period had me doubled up, crying all night, and wanting a lot of booze, chocolate and potato chips.

Not sure if you're on any medications, but have you tried red raspberry leaf tea? I found it really helps with the pains, although the taste is a bit like steamed artichoke. (Not fruity blank tea like they claim at all.) I found drinking a cup or two a day as soon as I knew I was getting ready to start reduced the cravings, bloat, discomfort, cravings and the gastro issues I get every month. (Last month was bad because I was out of tea and I started cramping at like.... 3 am. :( )

Also, my Bed Buddy is my friend that week.. Putting heat either on my hips or my lower back helps so much. I even take it to work with me.

Yoga helps take some of the monthly stress and ease my cramping. There's a few sites with recommended poses. I don't know if it helps with endo, but maybe?

​

As far as your goal, remember that it's long term. Even if you have a little something sweet right now to tide you over, it's temporary and you will still be ahead overall. Just, don't beat yourself up or let yourself get defeated if you relax a little. And don't look at the scale this week. If you're like me, you retain 3-4 pounds of water and it's SOOO discouraging to see, even if you know it's there and why.

Hang in there.... you still got this!

I second the shiatsu massager. I have one and I’ve gifted two others — they’re great.

A couple of other things I also own and enjoy are:
Thermos Stainless King 16 Ounce Food Jar with Folding Spoon, Stainless Steel
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DZQT01U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_89c-BbTN3WJ1Q

Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL King Size Heating Pad (Turquoise Blue) - Fast-Heating Machine-Washable Pad - 6 Temperature Settings, Moist Heat Therapy Option, Auto Shut-Off and Storage Bag - 12" x 24" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KVYTV7M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_B.c-Bb8MC1HX7
(I have an outlet behind my couch and just plug this in when I’m watching tv and it’s chilly)

I recommend the Flexikold. You can order them on Amazon, and come from like letter size to literally the size of your back. They are very tough and not likely to leak. You can also get a reusable gel ice pack at pretty much any store with a first aid/recovery section. I got a decent one at Fred Meyer for about 10 bucks. They are awesome and re-"freeze" in like 30-45 minutes.

As an Eskimo living in Anchorage, with an apartment that has terrible cross-breeze, I need these to survive! In a pinch you can use a 2 liter bottle (make sure you don't fill it too full), but the gel packs are the way to go.

One of my rats has a respiratory infection so I cannot give him water to play in but I want to keep them cool. The ice packs are made of safe ingredients, but I am putting them in a little tin anyway to keep ratty teeth off of them. The blue metal box is about 10 inches wide which should be plenty of room for my two rats with the cold tub inside.



Products here (I get no commission of any kind):

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https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00ZVIG1R2/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1


https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00NCQTUNW/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'm a fan of jackets where they have an inside liner you can remove (Northface makes these, along with a number of other cheaper brands). The outer shells can usually be used during rainy weather and then when it gets cold you can add the liner. Makes it a dual purpose jacket. In general, I have a few different jackets that range in thickness/warmness because certain parts of the winter here are super manageable, while others (such as the time we were hit by the "Polar Vortex" last year) can be unbearable.

Also, not clothing, but my mom uses these during the really cold months, as she works outside sometimes: http://www.amazon.com/Comfort-Zone-Proheat-Reusable-Warmer/dp/B000C9DCG8 They're reusable, so they're a great investment to keep your extremities warm.

It's hot as balls in the summer. I got a giant flexible freezer pack and put it in my jacket where the back armor goes. Keeps me nice and cool on the way home from work.

http://www.amazon.com/FlexiKold-Cold-Pack-Standard-Size/dp/B0091IOISW/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1464625466&sr=8-1&keywords=flexicold

I had the same brace after my ACL/meniscus tear, but I would take some of the straps off so I could slide this kind of pad in. It did wonders for the pain. I did it over the wrapping.

Once I got more healed up and didn't need the icing machine, these were the best ice packs I found. They stay soft, only take 2 hours before you can use them again, and they're the only ones that didn't break on me. I recommend getting two.

I'd wait until you get the take from your PT. I was back on the bike within three weeks for both of my ACL repairs but full recovery took months and I had a lot of swelling for nearly a year. I did PT for a year in both cases, obviously less and less as time progressed.

A subsequent total knee replacement was actually easier to recover from.

If you don't already have one, pick one of these up on ebay with the knee attachment. I use mine still after long hard rides.

https://www.amazon.com/Polar-Products-Inc-Active-Therapy/dp/B001ALNM3A?ie=UTF8&*Version*=1&*entries*=0

Thanks! I'm guessing you're talking about something like these.

Make sure whoever picks you up after has food ready. Don't be scared to test your leg. It's in basically cast with that brace on. I was walking on and off under two weeks. (You will need to lay in bed and ice all day after probably.)

Buy one of these https://www.amazon.com/Polar-Products-Inc-Active-Therapy/dp/B001ALNM3A

I didn’t have much success with Cliradex, but this compress has helped me immensely. I do it 1-2 times per day for about 10 minutes. Put in the microwave for 30 seconds and then lie down with it on. It opens up the glands so your eyes will be really blurry after - just put in eye drops after and you’ll be good to go

https://www.amazon.com/Thermalon-24342-Dry-Eye-Compress/dp/B004385RPS

I recommend something like this for his gut post-surgery.
https://www.amazon.ca/Microwavable-Heat-Bag-Solution-Arthritis/dp/B00WL05FCK

My GF has heating strip that can be warmed up in the microwave (something like this thing or this one, although a different brand/model). So I pop it in the microwave a couple minutes and she can the lay it on her tummy or wherever it is needed.

The heat from it lasts quite awhile and it has a really pleasant smell. I keep warming it up for her as needed. I also provide back rubs and foot rubs. Rubbing her lower back sometimes helps and the foot rubs just feel great and help her relax.

Something else to look at is what form of birth control you two are using. I mention this because the Tri-Sprintec my GF is taking really, really reduced her cramping and pain. Something to discuss with her OB/GYN and whatever Doctor is involved with this kidney stuff. It took about two months for her body to get used to this birth control, but after that things were much better. Still some pain and cramps, but it is no longer debilitating.

Trying to understand her thought process here...

Microwave = warmth.

Socks on radiator = warmth.

Socks in microwave = warmth.

Microwave doesn't use flame.

Microwave cannot be a fire hazard.

Or thinking that since these go in the microwave, ALL fabrics can, which means she doesn't understand simple concepts like cotton is different than velvet which is different than linen...

With that inattention to detail, can your boss really afford to keep her dumb ass..? This isn't going to be the only time she could've killed y'all

Just a suggestion, but I've been using this product for years for my dry eyes.... It's reusable and you just pop it in the microwave for 20 seconds. Same exact thing but not a one time use like the starry eyes


Thermalon Dry Eye Compress https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004385RPS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_luz1DbBG0PP2M

My favorite heating pad is this one, because you can override the auto shut off:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01KVYTV7M/ref=psdcmw_3763871_t3_B00474Z0Q4

Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL King Size Heating Pad (Turquoise Blue) - Fast-Heating Machine-Washable Pad - 6 Temperature Settings, Moist Heat Therapy Option, Auto Shut-Off and Storage Bag - 12" x 24"

Ive been using these - http://www.amazon.com/Carex-Bed-Buddy-Cold-Pack/dp/B000KBNPQ0/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1458149041&sr=1-1&keywords=bed+buddy for years... they definitely make good cold packs as well as heat packs. Sadly I havent had success using them to support my neck, but that could simply be the way I sleep

Massive weather changes meant uber-nasty migraine today.

I swear by these "Be Kooool" things for relief:

https://www.amazon.com/Koool-Cooling-Relief-Migraine-Sheets/dp/B004AI8ZE6/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1497299273&sr=8-1&keywords=be+cool+migraine

I use this one!
https://www.amazon.com/Medi-Temp-Head-Neck-Cold-Reusable-Compress/dp/B000A3IP0E/ref=pd_bap_rp_13?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=SXEFBTD5M695EFGRC15R

There have been times where this is the only thing that helps.

I did cold washcloths or one of those cooling gel mask things from the fridge like this and that helped a bit. I also tried to drink more water because that made my vomiting episodes a little less terrible. Good luck!

I got these little moldable ice packs, and while the fit is a little snug (Pixel XL, 2017 DD), it works perfectly for keeping the phone cool. I just wrap it in a paper towel to fight off condensation.

With a 5 pack, your battery will die before you ever have an issue with heat.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000C9DCG8/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I got 2 of these, and they work very well. Used them back in my League of Legends Days.

I have what is called a Bed Buddy. I cannot STRESS how amazing this is! It's a soft, bean filled sack thing that heats up in the microwave. This has gotten me through every awful period I've ever had. You will not regret it. My friends even borrow it when they come over and happen to be on their p-rods.

I also have oversupply, while I have not had mastitis, I have had plenty of painful plugged ducts UNTIL I started using a microwave heat pack. I got this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000KBNPQ0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_iRnxCbDY1KC7A which is a convient shape. I lay it across my chest right above my flanges. You must be very careful not to burn yourself. I heat mine in the microwave along with a mug of water to prevent burning and I always have a towel or folded burp cloth between my skin and the heat pack. It works like magic, at least it has for me.

There are bags you can microwave or freeze that I find very helpful. They are filled with corn or rice or buckwheat hulls. Most people call them rice bags. I don’t know if you are crafty or feel like being crafty, but if you get some flannel or other very soft fabric, you can make a bag filled with rice for very cheap. Otherwise you can buy them many places, including amazon; just search rice bag


Microwavable Heating Pad - Warming Solution Bag for Joint Pain, Aches, Pains, Cramps, and Arthritis https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WL05FCK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dEbYDb9GMQ4Y1

But if you have a scrap of fabric or even buy a little bit, with the cost of rice it can be sewn for a few bucks.

It’s nice to have more than one when using frozen because you can use one while the other is freezing.

I just recently ordered this hot water bottle for my wife

Some version of a flowing water ice pack

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01KVYTV7M?psc=1
I have two of these. The last two settings are TOO hot for me.

Here are some of my faves:

https://www.amazon.ca/TMF10133-Theramed-Cold-Headache-Band/dp/B004O3RF70

https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Peppermint-Menthol-Rosemary-Headache/dp/B010OE8KQM/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1482593483&sr=1-1&keywords=natural+peppermint+headache+stick

https://www.amazon.com/Koool-Sheets-Adults-Migraine-Count/dp/B004AI8ZE6/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1482593507&sr=1-1&keywords=be+kool+migraine+patches

https://www.amazon.com/Thermalon-24342-Dry-Eye-Compress/dp/B004385RPS/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=dry+eye+mask&qid=1568352742&sprefix=dry+eye&sr=8-4

It's the same stuff that's in this sort of handwarmer (the re-usable types).

FlexiKold for the injured.

I gritted my teeth and soldiered through it au naturel, I averaged 4-6 hours a night for the first 4 months or so. I felt like it was rebound everything--I had spent so long in a haze of pot, that suddenly there was so much to do--we can survive on 4-6 hours sleep a night for a few months. Hell, new parents do it, we new leaves can do it too!

What helped me: hot camomile tea and microwave neck wraps.

Oh my goodness, yes! Boil hot water and cut up an inch of ginger root. Let the cut up root soak in the water for 5 mins and drink. I have cysts on my ovaries (ew TMI, sorry) so my cramps are often times so debilitating that I've wound up in the hospital on several occasions. I feel like I've got the dealing-with-horrible-cramps thing mostly down to a science.

Automatically take 3-4 Advil, right away. If you have one, heat up a rice heating pad in the microwave for 1-2 minutes (depending on how hot you can take it). Then make your tea as the rice is cooling down to an acceptable place-on-body temperature. Find a comfy place to rest and curl yourself into a fetal position with the rice pack on your uterus area, drink your tea slowly, and wait for the Advil to take hold. This usually makes a day of not being able to do shit because I'm in mind boggling pain from cramps turn into a simple half hour or hour of annoying pain, then I'm well on my way to productivity again.

A camera case with a gel hand-warmer inside?

(Note: I've never used these hand-warmers and have no idea how hot they get. This suggestion may in fact be an incredibly bad idea, I have no idea what I'm doing, etc etc.)