If you suffer from back pain, a good heating pad can make a huge difference.
But not all heating pads work the same.
Some only warm the surface of your skin, while infrared heating pads use carbon fiber or heated stones to deliver deeper, more even heat into tight muscles.
After testing several models and analyzing hundreds of user reviews, we found the infrared heating pads that work best for back pain, including lightweight pads, stone-based mats, and premium therapy options.
Below you’ll find our top picks and how to choose the right one for your situation.
In a hurry?
See our top 3 choices below (followed by our full infrared heating pad reviews).
Quick Decision
- UTK is the best overall value and the easiest safe choice.
- MediCrystal is the premium amethyst mat with a strong warranty.
- Ereada is the heavy-duty all-in-one setup.
- Bob and Brad is the affordable, lightweight option.
Overview
- Are Infrared Heating Pads Better Than Regular Heat Pads?
- How Do Infrared Heating Pads Work?
- How to Choose an Infrared Heating Pad for Back Pain
- The Top 5 Infrared Heating Pads Right Now
- What’s the Best Heating Pad for the Knees?
- What’s the Best Infrared Heating Pad for the Neck and Shoulders?
- How Long Can You Use an Infrared Heating Pad?
- How Does an Infrared Heating Pad Help with Back Pain?
- Can You Sleep On an Infrared Heating Pad?
Are Infrared Heating Pads Better Than Regular Heat Pads?
Infrared light therapy is the wave of the future in the natural health and wellness world.
If you want a deeper explanation of the differences, see our full guide on infrared heating pads vs regular heating pads, where we compare heat depth, safety, and long-term effectiveness.
Electric heating pads use electric heating coils, which not only emit high levels of electromagnetic radiation but also only heat the top layers of your skin (or burn it, as has happened to so many people).
In comparison, most far infrared heating pads use natural stones (jade/tourmaline/amethyst) to deliver deep penetrating heat (infrared rays) that can penetrate deeper into tissue and create a high warming effect, without any side effects.
This difference is why people who need deeper, longer pain relief usually end up choosing stone-based pads like UTK or MediCrystal instead of standard electric heat.
Note: Not everyone needs deep infrared therapy.
If your main goal is relaxation, stress relief, or gentle muscle loosening, massage mats with heat can be a more comfortable and budget-friendly option.
How Do Infrared Heating Pads Work?
When the jade (or Tourmaline/Amethyst) is heated, it emits infrared heat that penetrates deep into your body and relieves pain, improves blood circulation, reduces tension and stress, and, with time, improves muscle flexibility.
For example, Jade is known as a healing stone and has been known to boost depleted spirits.
It provides a steady stream of positive energy that helps you slowly recover from past problems.
To get the right temperature, you can crank it all the way up to the highest heat level possible.
Within 5 minutes, the pad is hot, and you can adjust it downward with no problems.
This is why infrared heating pads that use stones or ceramic elements tend to feel more effective for back pain than regular electric pads.
They hold heat longer, deliver it more evenly, and are better for deep muscle tension.
How to Choose an Infrared Heating Pad for Back Pain
Before picking a heating pad, there are four things that matter most:
Heat level – For deep muscle tension, the pad should reach at least 130-150°F. Stone pads usually reach higher temperatures than lightweight pads.
Weight and flexibility – Gemstone mats hold heat longer but are heavier. Carbon-fiber pads are lighter and easier to wrap around your body.
Coverage area – If your pain spreads across the lower back, choose a larger pad or mat. Smaller pads work better for targeted pain.
Extra features – Some pads include PEMF therapy, straps, or timers. These features can make the pad easier to use, but also increase the price.
The Top 5 Infrared Heating Pads Right Now
This guide will help you pick one that fits how you live, sit, and recover – not just what sounds good on the box.
Below you’ll find the 5 highest-rated infrared heating pads (btw, one of the best back pain gifts), and the healing therapies they offer.
1. UTK Infrared Heating Pads – Best Value
Best choice if you want a strong stone-based FIR pad without overpaying
- Type – Jade/Tourmaline heating pad
- Size – 23.5” x 16”
- Temperatures – 103°F-159°F by 1°F Increments
✅ Pros – Leading brand, high quality (we’ve been using it for 6 years), low EMF, FDA-approved
❌ Cons – Can’t be used with metal implants, a bit heavy
VIEW ON AMAZON $139
Best for – people who want a trusted jade and tourmaline FIR pad with a higher heat range and long-term durability.
Not ideal for – people who need something very lightweight or who plan to carry it around daily.
The UTK Infrared Healing Pad features far-infrared heat (delivered via natural Jade/Tourmaline stones) and negative ions, which increase vitality and relieve stress.
The UTK jade & tourmaline heating pads heat up in less than 5 minutes, are offered in 3 sizes, have a simple digital controller (to set exact temperature and time), are flexible and can be wrapped around different body areas, and come with a strap (to use on a chair).
If you want one pad you will still be using years from now, this is the safest bet.
They offer at least 5,000 hours of continuous work, the cord is extra long, and they are very easy to use.
The UTK brand is established, experienced, and offers good customer service. We know this from personal experience in the last 6 years.
Plus, this heating pad can withstand kids abusing it and jumping on it, and it still continues to work the way it did on the first day!
Available on Amazon ($139)
UTK Infrared Heating Pads Pros & Cons
According to hundreds of consumer reviews and our personal experience, the UTK infrared heating pad is well-made, long-lasting, easy to use, and safe.
Customer service is excellent. My personal experience with my Jade & Tourmaline model is amazing – I’ve been using it for more than 6 years now with no problems.
The only con is the weight of the pad, which is quite heavy due to the gemstones inside. This is why I don’t move it around much, and I have a permanent place for it in the living room.
UTK also has an infrared heating belt that is meant for lower back pain (which I also have and use to move around a bit during treatment):
Lastly, UTK has another belt with 3 levels of vibration massage for a boosted treatment:
2. MediCrystal Far Infrared Mat – Best Amethyst Mat
Choose this if you want a premium amethyst mat for home recovery
- Type – Amethyst heating pad
- Size – 24″ x 16″
- Temperatures – 55-160°F
✅ Pros – High-end, 6.5 pounds crushed Amethyst, professional-grade, waterproof cover, and carrying bag
❌ Cons – Heavy, expensive
With code MEITALJAMES
Best for – people who want a premium amethyst mat for daily full-body sessions and care a lot about materials and warranty.
Not ideal for – anyone who wants a budget option or something easy to move from room to room.
The MediCrystal company not only excels with its high-end infrared heating pads and PEMF heating pads but also with its excellent warranty and customer service.
Through our research, their best value infrared Amethyst mattress pad is the Mini model (sized 32″ x 20″), made from 18 layers and filled with 6.5 pounds of untreated crushed Amethyst crystals, comes with a smart controller, a waterproof cover, and a carry bag.
The Amethyst crystals naturally release Negative Ions and Far Infrared Deep Impact Heat – in the most absorbable wavelength range 4-16µm with Energy Peaks at 6 and 12 microns to go 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) deep into the tissues.
When you buy on the official site, you can use our 5% coupon code (MEITALJAMES), and you get a long 2-year warranty, and free shipping (for returns as well!).
If you want premium and you actually care about materials, this is the one.
If you run into any trouble with the mat or the controller, customer service jumps to help you within a few days.
The only cons are the weight (10 pounds total, which is heavier than other pads, due to a large number of crystals), and the price.
But we believe this mat is worth every cent.
And if all this is not enough:
This mat is also made with eco-friendly materials – an eco-suede exterior, and plant-based and recycled materials.
Available at MediCrystal ($328 with coupon code MEITALJAMES)
3. Ereada Infrared Mats – Best with PEMF
For advanced users who want FIR and PEMF in one system
- Type – amethyst heating pad with PEMF Therapy
- Size – 59″ x 24″
- Temperatures – 7 heat settings (86 ~ 158°F)
✅ Pros – Professional grade, extra large, PEMF magnetism, LED light therapy
❌ Cons – Heavy and bulky, expensive
Best for – people who want the most “clinic-style” pad at home, especially FIR plus PEMF in one heavy-duty mat.
Not ideal for – small spaces, frequent travel, or anyone who hates heavy equipment.
Choose this only if you want maximum therapy in one mat and don’t plan to move it around
The Ereada high-end infrared heating mats (made in Korea) combine 5 healing therapies in one high-end mat:
- Far-infrared heat (up to 158°F)
- PEMF therapy – pulsating magnetic intensity to recharge your cells
- Photon light therapy – 14 LEDs (660 nm) for skin rejuvenation
- Negative ions
- Crystal therapy (Grade A+ Amethyst)
The popular Compact-Pro model (32″ X 20″/ 27 lbs) has 4 pounds more Amethyst than most mats, and 17 layers, containing more than 21 pounds of amethyst.
It runs far-infrared heat from 86°F to 158°F (7 intensity levels) with a wavelength of 4 to 16 microns (very deep penetration) and has sensors to control the heat all over the mat.
Equipped with a 300 gauss Permanent Magnetic field intensity, the Ereada Compact Pro has a rapid, very low-frequency pulsation magnetic intensity in the range of .100 – .400 gauss.
It also runs at a Magnetic Pulsation Frequency of 8- 60 per session.
This helps protect you from EMF damage and helps promote blood flow through the natural magnetic waves of the PEMF.
While the Ereada mats are more expensive than average, they are the best high-end, professional far infrared & PEMF mats on the market.
The only con with this excellent amethyst mat is the weight; it’s very heavy and hard to move around.
Available at Ereada ($839 for the Pro Model or $470 for the smaller model)
4. Bob and Brad Far Infrared Heating Pad – Budget Pick
Best low-cost option if you want FIR without heavy stones
- Type – Far infrared electric heating pad (ceramic beads)
- Size – 24″ x 12″
- Temperatures – 104~ 115°F (6 settings)
✅ Pros – Weighted for better contact, hands-free strap, moist heat option, easy to use, FSA/HSA eligible, lightweight compared to stone pads
❌ Cons – No jade or amethyst stones, no negative ions, doesn’t get as hot as Jade pads
Best for – people who want a simple, affordable FIR option they can strap on while sitting or working.
Not ideal for – anyone specifically looking for crystals, negative ions, or high heat like stone mats.
This is a good choice if you want infrared heat you can strap on and keep moving – not something heavy you lie on.
The Bob and Brad Far Infrared Weighted Heating Pad uses ceramic-based heating elements to produce far infrared heat, rather than surface-only electric coil heat.
Ceramic elements are designed to radiate heat deeper into muscle tissue, which helps relax tight muscles and improve circulation more evenly than standard heating pads.
What makes this pad stand out is the built-in weight, which keeps the ceramic heating surface in close contact with your body.
This prevents hot or cool spots, especially when sitting upright or moving around.
The hands-free strap system allows you to wrap the pad around your lower back, shoulders, or neck, and It also supports moist heat therapy, which many people find more effective for muscle cramps, stiffness, and spasms than dry heat alone.
Because it does not contain heavy stones, this pad is much easier to handle than jade or amethyst infrared mats; it heats up quickly, and the price is considerably lower.
Available on Amazon ($40)
5. Thermotex Far Infrared Heating Pad – Best Carbon Fiber
Best if you want deep infrared heat without heavy stones
- Type – carbon fiber heating pad (no gemstones)
- Size – 15″ x 7″ x 5.5″
- Temperatures – 108~ 116°F
✅ Pros – Lightweight and portable, flexible, adjustable temperature
❌ Cons – No negative ions, possible EMF radiation, expensive
VIEW ON AMAZON $259
Best for – people who want a reputable carbon-fiber FIR pad that’s lighter than gemstone pads.
Not ideal for – anyone who wants negative ions or stone-based crystal therapy.
The Thermotex pad is another high-quality infrared pad and is less expensive than the smallest UTK FIR heat pad, but more expensive than the medium UTK one.
Thermotex vs. Jade Heating Pads
- The Thermotex pad (the Gold model) cannot be folded. The internal elements are rigid and should never be bent. This means you can’t use it in your car or wrap it around other aching parts of your body. It’s almost impossible for the whole surface of the element to completely touch a “curvy” human body part.
- The Thermotex Platinum pad is larger and has 3 sections that allow it to bend around your body. Problem solved (but for extra dollars).
- The Thermotex pad doesn’t feature negative ions. Whether this is important or not is up to you.
- No Jade stones. Thermotex delivers infrared rays through carbon fibers, which is just as effective, but carbon fibers emit some levels of EMF radiation.
The Thermotex is made up of multiple 3 x 8-inch pieces sewn together (as in the Platinum, Elbow, and Shoulder models), although there can also be larger size elements as in the Gold, Professional, and Large Shoulder models.
Both the electrical cord and the heat selection switch are heavy-duty and sturdy.
The manual heat control Switch shows “Off,” “Low,” “High,” and “Off”.
It comes in 2 sizes for back pain – Gold and Platinum. The Gold model is smaller and can’t be bent, and platinum is a bit larger and more flexible.
What’s the Best Heating Pad for the Knees?
If you need an FIR heat pad for your aching knees, you may want to consider a specially designed pad for the curvy shape of your knee.
When you combine the benefits of deep heat and vibration massage, you get the maximum results from knee thermal therapy.
The best infrared knee heating pad would be able to reach high temperatures, be rechargeable (so you can move around with it), and be made with durable and long-lasting materials.
Through our research, the Comfier Heated Knee Wraps are the top 2026 choice for knee pain.
What’s the Best Infrared Heating Pad for the Neck and Shoulders?
If your pain is centered in the shoulders (and often the neck as well), choosing a wrap specifically designed for this area is always the smarter move.
The Cholas Red Light Therapy Belt stands out because it can contour comfortably around the neck, shoulders, upper back, and even the waist – something most infrared pads can’t do.
Instead of surface heat, the Cholas device uses 660nm red light and 850nm near-infrared LEDs to reach deeper into tight muscles and stiff soft tissue.
It’s flexible, lightweight, and stays in place, and the only downside is that it doesn’t heat up like a traditional heating pad, because LED therapy works through light penetration rather than surface warmth.
✅ Available on Amazon ($65)
See More Neck and Shoulder Heating Pad Options.
How Long Can You Use an Infrared Heating Pad?
It is safe to use the FIR heat pad as often as you want to, for as long as you feel comfortable with the heat.
Generally, the longer the use, the lower the temperature.
You can use it in your normal daily schedule, in the car, in the office, while watching a movie, and before you go to sleep (to avoid back pain at night).
Most people feel the amazing pain-relieving effect of infrared pad therapy – almost immediately, usually in up to 30 minutes (but you can use it for hours).
Others may need a few days to feel the results. It depends on the severity of your back pain and how often you use it.
Who Should Avoid Infrared Heating Pads?
Most people can safely use infrared heating pads, but you should consult a doctor before using one if you:
- Have reduced heat sensitivity or neuropathy
- Recently had back surgery
- Have severe circulation problems
- Use implanted medical devices
In these situations, controlled medical heat therapy may be safer.
How Does an Infrared Heating Pad Help with Back Pain?
An infrared heating pad is a safe, natural, and non-invasive tool to relieve back pain without medication and speed up recovery from any back injury.
Infrared heat is known to warm tissues more evenly than standard electric heating pads.
This deeper warming effect helps relax tight muscles, improve circulation in the treated area, and reduce stiffness in the lower back.
Infrared therapy is scientifically proven to relieve back pain and any other pain, with almost no side effects (see studies below).
Can You Sleep On an Infrared Heating Pad?
Yes, you can sleep on an infrared heating pad if you use it at a low temperature, set the timer to go off after 2 hours, and drink a large glass of water in the morning.
Sleeping on a FIR heating pad will promote restful and continuous sleep, reduce stress, and prevent waking up with a stiff back and aching muscles.
For overnight or very long sessions, pads with built-in timers, lower heat settings, and stable contact with the body are the safest choice.
This is where heavier mats or pads designed to stay in place tend to work better than lightweight pads that shift or cool quickly.
Conclusion
The best infrared heating pad for back pain is the one you will actually use regularly.
If you want a reliable stone-based pad with strong heat, UTK remains the easiest choice for most people.
If you prefer premium materials and a thicker mat, MediCrystal is a good upgrade.
For advanced therapy with PEMF and LED features, Ereada offers the most powerful setup.
Even a simple pad used consistently can help loosen tight muscles and make everyday back pain easier to manage.
To your health and happiness,
The Back Pain Relief Products Team
Studies
Jiang SY, Ma A, Ramachandran S. Negative Air Ions and Their Effects on Human Health and Air Quality Improvement. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(10):2966. Published 2018 Sep 28.
Gale GD, Rothbart PJ, Li Y. Infrared therapy for chronic low back pain: a randomized, controlled trial. Pain Res Manag. 2006;11(3):193-196.
I ordered the Serenecalm infrared heating pad you reviewed here with the claim of 2-day shipping. I was immediately charged and received an email acknowledging the purchase. However, after several days I had not received shipping information. When I contacted customer service they advised that the product had been shipped. But when I asked for tracking information, 3 times by email, I still have not received a tracking number or the product. I am very disappointed.
Hi Larry, I contacted the company on your behalf. They’ve explained that they moved to a new fulfillment center and shipping company in the past week and had a few problems. They have temporarily stopped promising 2-day shipping due to this. They are very sorry for the delay and your product should arrive soon. They have also said that you may be fully refunded if you wish to be. I hope this helps and I’m sorry for your disappointment.
What do you do with the jade stones when the heating pad no longer works and is not fixable?
Michele, jade stones are semi-precious stones and you can take them out of the pad if you’d like, wash them with water, and put them in a bowl out in the sun for a few hours to refresh them. See this post to see their benefits: https://www.energymuse.com/jade-meaning
Wish to buy an infrared pad, but there are so many different types. Am a senior over 70 yrs and have a pinched nerve, bone nodules lower spine. Using a heat pad now which helps a bit. But, am not familiar with the Infrared heat pad, so do not know which one to purchase. Suggestions please.
I have a thermotex Platinum pad and LOVE it!!
One this article fails to mention is that Thermotex is also FDA approved as well as with Health Canada.
I have Fibromyalgia and the simple things that I can do daily now are amazing, and I take less medication. The people at this company are so helpful and full of information.
I have had my pad now for 14 years and still use it every day and when I travel it comes with me. I can use mine in the car as well.
If I had to choose I would pick Thermotex over and over again over the jade stones.
Thanks for sharing your experience with us Kathy! :)
UTK infrared heating pad,penetrates deeply without overwhelming or ‘hurting’ the skin from being too hot,effective for pain relief
I did buy the mat from the healthy back institute and am very happy with it and their support .
Great Simon!:) Thanks for the update.
The Firzone heat pad really worked for me. 5 star
Any info about the infra red solo pad by sunlighte ?
Laura,
I haven’t reviewed it yet, but you can always read the reviews on Amazon. Look for verified purchase reviews only.
This infrared only goes up to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. On Amazon, I found a Thermophore Heating Pad that goes up to 175 Degrees. Different sizes available a heck of a lot less, about $80 max.
Two types of switches, Auto-Off after 20 minutes, and 2nd, a Dead-Man switch, let go and it goes off.
At 170 degrees you don’t want to fall asleep with it on.
For this disabled vet with multiple joint surgeries for trauma and arthritis, the Thermophore line is the BEST I’ve tried.
Don’t buy one if you’re typically brain dead during awake hours. It needs common sense to use one.
Does anyone know anything about the UTK Far Infrared Electric Heat Therapy pad? Bought it off of Amazon as a gift but don’t have one myself. Is it radiation free?
The manual says that every effort has been made to reduce EMF to minimum. But I haven’t measured it myself so I don’t know if that’s true.
I LOVE MY THERASAGE. MY CHIRO SAYS IT CAN BE A PROBLEM DURING BEGINNING WITH CHIRO TREATMENTS AS TO INCREASE INFLAMATION HOWEVER I FEEL BETTER WHEN I USE IT. ALSO USE ON MY BACK AND NECK MOSTLY CAN IT CAUSE DAMAGE TO BREAST IMPLANTS
THANK YOU
Robin,
I’m so glad it helps you out, I know, it’s amazing. By the way it doesn’t increase inflammation – The opposite.
As for breast implants, I really don’t know, I think you should check with your doctor to be on the safe side.
I would also highly recommend the Amethyst Biomat. It is filled with amethyst crystals and emits far infrared and negative ions as well. It is AMAZING for pain relief.
Jessica,
Ohhh I know…it’s the best really. But since it’s a full body mat and it’s really expensive I haven’t suggested it here.
Here’s the link for its page on Amazon, if anyone is interested:
https://amzn.to/1OngeOO
Hello, I’ve had piriforis syndrome and fybromalgia since my spinal fusion surgery around 17 months ago. I’m back at work part time but really struggling with the physical and nerve pain. Would the therasage heating pad be medically beneficial to me?
Thomas,
I am not a doctor but from my experience – Yes it will. It’s an amazing drug-free pain relief method, that can save you a lot of pain killers (that’s already good for your health!)
And I’ve heard that people with Fibro will not live without it after trying it.
I think it’s definitely worth a try, and for what ever reason you don’t like it – You can always send it back (is you buy through Amazon).
I hope you feel better soon!
Molly,
I can’t say for sure, I would definitely consult with a doctor before using an infrared heating pad.
As for Therasage – Yes, there is a return policy. A reliable one if you buy from Amazon.
Be well!:)
You mention that there are numerous scientific studies that have found benefit for these pads. Can you share any of these references so that I can look up and read the articles and share them with people who ask? Thank you for your time.
Deetria,
Here are a few studies:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2539004/
https://drsircus.com/medicine/light-heat/biomat-thermotherapy-medicine-overview
Hi. Have you any views on the Biomat?
Jenny, I have the Biomat and I love it. It’s the king of infrared heating pads..
Here’s my review for it: https://www.pain-in-lower-back.com/infrared-heating-pad/
I already have a TheraPad FIR mat appx. 5’x2′ that I use in bed. Do you think adding a layer of tumbled jade or other healing stones (amethyst) would increase its FIR emission?
Oriana, I wouldn’t try to do that on my own…and why would you need it to be more powerful?
Unless you can break the fundamental laws of physics (specifically conservation of energy), no! But if you find a way then you will be in line for fame and fortune!
Re Therasage Far Infrared Heating Pad (AKA “The Calmer)– I presumed it’s operated on 120VAC;if so, do you have model that runs on 240VAC?
Hi Ken,
This website doesn’t sell back pain products, just reviews them…
I tried to find what you’re looking for on Amazon, but failed…
I just looked at both of these items on Amazon. They are both only over $200.00. Seriously?
I just purchased a Jade Infrared Therapy mat 20×52 for $105.00 on Amazon. Very pleased with this product. Only took a few minutes to heat up. Range of heat goes to 55* with a timer of 6hr or 12hr. I’m a Crystal Healer and will be using this on all my clients and myself.
Regarding Ken Lai’s question about a model that runs on 240VAC, see the Therasage website for their International Model.