Heated Mittens for Osteoarthritis

Angie Szumlinski
|
January 21, 2025
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Have you ever experienced pain in your hands? I’m not talking about chronic, arthritis pain but any pain, cramping, etc.? It can be debilitating, so imagine how people living with osteoarthritis of the hands must feel! Heated mittens for osteoarthritis offer a potential solution for relief beyond traditional medications. Sure, they are given medications to ease the pain, but not without side effects. NSAIDs are one of the most commonly prescribed arthritis medications and they do provide some relief, but is there a better way?

A few years ago, I purchased a pair of buckwheat-filled mittens that we warmed in the microwave and used for my mom’s arthritic hands. She told us it gave her relief, but I honestly thought they were just nice, warm, and cozy! Then I read a study published in the BMJ that discussed the benefits of using heated mittens! The study was conducted in Denmark with 200 participants aged 42-90. The participants were provided with electrically heated mittens or control mittens where they disconnected their heating element. They were asked to wear them for at least 15 minutes daily for 6 weeks.

Hand function was assessed using a commonly used scale and they also looked at a couple of other outcome measures. Basically, they saw that this heated mitten DID appear to help just a little bit in all of these different outcomes. That said, none of the functional aspects by utilizing these mittens improved. IF you choose to trial some of these innovative products, PLEASE proceed with caution. Only under direct supervision should heated devices be used for the elderly. Even if your hand feels “comfortable” with the temperature of the device, elderly people often have a lack of sensation in their hands and feet and could easily be burned. Stay well and stay informed!


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