A robust and flexible embroidered heating belt for thermotherapy

In medical science, thermotherapy is a way to reduce the pain and discomfort in lower back, muscles or joints. This is because heat stimulates sensory receptors in a specific area of the body, reducing the transmission of pain signals to the brain. In this study, the objective is to develop a wearable heating belt through the utilization of embroidery technology. The principal aim is to alleviate lower back pain, while simultaneously prioritizing the human body’s flexibility and comfort. To accomplish this, the heaters were embroidered onto a cotton textile using Silver-Tech + 100 conductive threads. The heater temperature was monitored with infra-red camera under applied voltages of 3.3 V, 5 V and 9 V. Observed temperatures with applied voltages of 3.3 V, 5 V and 9 V were 29°C, 33°C and 47°C, respectively. The heater response time and recovery time at 9 V are 41 s and 98 s respectively. The heater stability was observed for 15 min at 9 V and corresponding temperature around 47°C was achieved. A portable electronic device for user control of the heating level, as well as smartphone application were also developed and tested. The developed heaters can also be used as a heating patch to alleviate joint and muscle pain.