The normal cut off for a heating pad is 20 minutes. This should be the right amount of time to use it for one session. Make sure you give yourself a break between uses, so your body has time to cool back down. [3] X Research source

Generally, you should start with the lowest setting and move up. However, you should never use the highest setting while pregnant.

Generally, you should start with the lowest setting and move up. However, you should never use the highest setting while pregnant.

Instead, just use the pad on your back, knee, or shoulder, one area at a time.

Make sure you turn it off before you get into bed and don’t use it in bed at all. You don’t want to fall asleep with it on accidentally.

Due to this possibility, do not ever place a heating pad directly on your abdomen. Consider substituting a warm spare blanket for the heating pad, and be sure to remove it when your skin is quite warm to the touch.

This will enable you to enjoy the warmth the heating pad would provide without direct contact with the pad or the flow of electric currents.

If your back hurts, try placing the heating pad beneath a lightweight pillow that you position behind your back while you recline on a couch or bed. Just remember that the pad is on and that it should be turned off before you fall asleep to prevent a fire or burn hazard.

The same time limit applies to these methods as well. Skin that are exposed to cold conditions for too long can develop frostbite. [5] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source

Cooling your skin and muscle before applying the heating pad may help the pad seem warmer on a lower setting.