Hydrocollators - Hydrocollator Units, Moist Heat Packs & Accessories

Hydrocollator packs are packs filled with bentonite clay and they are applied to areas of pain and inflammation to reduce discomfort. When applied to the skin, these heat packs can help to reduce pain due to inflammation, joint issues, arthritis, bruised muscles and other tissue, pulled muscles, and even congestion. They are moist and warm and they retain their heat so they can add warmth to the affected area longer than most other options. A hydrocollator is a device used to warm hydrocollator packs and keep them heated until they are ready for use.

Hydrocollators like the Chattanooga Hydrocollator® Packs - HotPac Moist Heat Packs & Steam Packs do retain heat better than most other heat packs. They can be used for hundreds of different treatments and therapies. Once they are heated through, they can disperse heat into the damaged tissue for a long period. Heat relief can be very beneficial to many muscle and joint pains and can also be used to maximize comfort and improve circulation, as well. Please note: If a hydrocollator heating unit is not available, they can be soaked in water and then microwaved.

A hydrocollator, like the Hydrocollator E-1 Heating Unit - Stationary Heating Unit, is a machine that warms up and stores hydrocollator packs. The average interior temperature is between 160° F - 165° F. A temperature of 160° F is the minimum required to kill bacteria and prevent the transmission of infections from one client to the next. This is also the ideal temperature to keep hydrocollator packs before applying them to the body for treatment. The outside of the hydrocollator does get warm but it will not become as hot as the internal temperature since it is well insulated.

In most cases of mild to medium levels of pain, hydrocollator packs can be used in intervals of 15 to 20 minutes at a time with a minimum of one to two hours of rest in between. In case of moderate to severe pain, they may be applied for longer periods of 30 to 120 minutes. This should only be done when needed. In either case, it is important to allow the body to recover and rest from the heat for a minimum of one to two hours after application.

A hydrocollator reaches internal temperatures that are hot enough to kill living organisms and bacteria. This makes the machine itself and whatever goes inside of sterile. If you wish to clean your hydrocollator, make sure it has fully cooled and is not plugged in. You may use water and vinegar to wash the inside of the machine. Be sure to pat dry and reconnect the machine. Once it reheats again, it will sterilize itself once the internal temperature reaches 160° F.

Hydrocollator pads come in various different sizes. The large multipurpose pad is 14" x 28". It is a moist heat pad with a cover that can be applied during chiropractic treatments, physiotherapy, or massages. They are covered in a weighted drape to ensure the heat is evenly spread the heat and to avoid causing hot spots.

A standard hydrocollator is typically 16" x 13" x 8". It has an internal rack that can accommodate four standard-sized hot packs. It is an ideal size for small clinics and practices. It can remain in the examination room with the patients so you can access them as needed during therapy treatments. A larger hydrocollator for a larger clinic is typically 33" x 27" x 16". This can accommodate 12 standard-sized hot packs. Hydrocollators and well insulated, easy to use, and easy to maintain.