A far infrared heating pad delivers deep penetrating infrared rays – via carbon fiber or jade/amethyst stones – with little to no EMF radiation – for long-lasting and natural back pain relief.
Since they are superior to regular heating pads, and usually contain semi-precious stones (that also emit negative ions) – they are more expensive – and require more research before you find the best one.
We’ve done all the research for you, and in this post, you’ll find the best far infrared heating pads for back pain relief – reviewed and compared, and how to choose the best one for you.
In a hurry?
See our top 4 choices below (followed by our full infrared heating pad reviews).
| Far Infrared Heating Pad | Bottom Line | Healing Therapies | Size/Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
UTK Infrared Heating Pads | 🥇Best Value | Far infrared heat Crystal therapy (Jade/Tourmaline stones) Negative Ions | Many sizes | ✅ $139 for the small size on Amazon! |
MediCrystal Amethyst Infrared Heat Pad | Best Amethyst Mat | Far infrared heat Crystal therapy (Amethyst) Negative Ions Eco-friendly | Mini size - 32″ x 20″ 10 lbs. | ✅ $328 with code MEITALJAMES at Medicrystal |
iReliev Infrared Heating Pad | Best Budget | Far Infrared Heat Crystal Therapy (Jade stones) Negative Ions | 24" x 16" 4.5 lbs. | ✅ $129 on Amazon |
Ereada Infrared Mats | Best with PEMF Magnetism | Far Infrared Heat PEMF Therapy Crystal Therapy (Amethyst stones) | 32″ X 20″ 27 lbs. | ✅ $445 at Ereada |
Overview
- Are Infrared Heating Pads Better Than Regular Heat Pads?
- How Do Infrared Heating Pads Work?
- The Top 6 Infrared Heating Pads (for Back Pain)
- 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.
Unfortunately, some people are still not aware of the superior benefits of infrared deep penetrating heat, compared to regular electric heating pads (see the full comparison here).
Electric heating pads use electric heating coils, which not only emit high levels of electromagnetic radiation but they 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 all the way to your bones and create a uniform warming effect – without any side effects.
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.
What Are Negative Ions?
Negative ions are molecules with an extra electron that your body can absorb.
They’re found in abundance at waterfalls, mountains, beaches, and in the air after a rainstorm.
Numerous studies indicate that once they reach our bloodstream, they produce biochemical reactions that calm and relieve stress, relieve depression, and boost our daytime energy, and our immune system.
The Top 6 Infrared Heating Pads (for Back Pain)
As with every other back pain product, not all infrared heating pads are created equal.
Below you’ll find the 6 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
- 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
✅ $139 on Amazon
The UTK Infrared Healing Pad features far-infrared heat (delivered via natural Jade/Tourmaline stones) and negative ions – that 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).
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.
2. iReliev Infrared Heating Pad – Best Budget
- Type – Jade heating pad
- Size – 24″ x 16″
- Temperatures – 55-160°F
Pros – Lower-than-average cost, negative ions, with Velcro strap, fast shipping
Cons – Sometimes struggles to keep the temperature
✅ $129 on Amazon
The new and improved iReliev infrared heating pad delivers far infrared therapy through a combination of Jade and Tourmaline stones (which emit 2.5~13.5 microns of infrared rays) and heats up to 160 F (with a 5-hour automatic shut-off).
This is the only FIR heating pad on this list that has Velcro stitching and strap – which allows you to also use it while sitting on any chair (if you work at home – use it on your ergonomic office chair!).
However, it comes only in one size (24″ x 16″), compared with the UTK heating pads that come in several sizes.
The controller allows you to set the temperature and the exact time you want to enjoy the deep penetrating and pain-relieving infrared therapy.
It also comes with a handy carry bag so you can easily fold it up and take it with you anywhere you go.
The Jade and Tourmaline stones release 1500+ negative ions per square inch and act as “antioxidants” for the air around you, contributing to your well-being.
And the best news?
The price is fair (less than average), the shipping is free, and arrives within 2-5 days! Customer service is excellent, we know through our personal experience.
✅ Available on Amazon ($129)
3. MediCrystal Far Infrared Mat – Best Amethyst Mat
- 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
✅ $328 with code MEITALJAMES at MediCrystal
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 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)
4. Ereada Infrared Mats – Best with PEMF
- 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
✅ $839 for the Pro model at Ereada / $445 for the smaller model
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, heavy-duty 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 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 $445 for the smaller model)
5. Dr. Clark’s Infrared Heating Pad – with Neck Contour
- Type – Jade heating pad
- Size – 21” x 37”
- Temperatures – 104~ 158°F
Pros – Comes with a neck contour for neck pain relief
Cons – The middle section may place pressure on the spine
Dr. Clark’s deep heating pad comes with 173 natural Jade stones and a unique neck contour to use on the neck muscles, nerves, and bones.
The special spinal channel keeps pressure off your spine and reduces pain during your home treatment, and the auto shut-off makes it safe to fall asleep on (up to 4 hours of continuous use!).
The extra-long cord (14-foot) helps this one reach almost any outlet in your home and is compatible with both 110V and 250V.
When you purchase from the Healthy Back Institute, you get a 90-day money-back guarantee and a 2-year warranty.
Pros
- Easy-to-use controllers with heat settings
- Auto shut off (up to 4 hours)
- Flexible – can be wrapped around joints as well
- Optional car inverter makes it easy to use in your car
- 90-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Shuts off automatically after 30 minutes
✅ Available at the Healthy Back Institute ($349)
6. Thermotex Far Infrared Heating Pad – Best Carbon Fiber
- 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
✅ $259 on Amazon
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 2024 choice for knee pain.
What’s the Best Infrared Heating Pad for the Neck and Shoulders?
If your pain is mostly in your shoulders (and probably your neck too) – choosing a specifically designed neck and shoulder infrared heating pad would be a wiser choice.
Through our research, we’ve found the UTK neck and shoulder FIR heating pad to be the best choice in 2024. However, there’s not much to choose from, because there is no other Jade infrared neck and shoulder wrap on the market right now.
✅ Available on Amazon ($145)
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.
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 rays, delivered by crystals, penetrate much deeper (up to 2.5 inches) into your body tissues where it promote blood circulation, which delivers healing and pain-relieving nutrients.
Infrared therapy is scientifically proven to relieve back pain and any other pain – without any 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 an FIR heating pad will promote restful and continuous sleep, reduce stress, and prevent waking up with a stiff back and aching muscles.
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://www.nasa.gov/topics/nasalife/features/heals.html
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.