Keeping ourselves pain free – A Run Oregon review of Ouch Wraps and Crazy Compression

Run Oregon is all about keeping our readers pain-free when running on the road and trails. Check out Matt's review of a company he recently tried out - Ouch Wraps  Ouch Wraps:

Whether you need hot therapy or cold, to rehab or recoup, Ouch Wraps have you covered.

You have probably seen products like this before. I know that my mother-in-law spent days slaving away to make one (which I subsequently borrowed for an extended period of time - sorry about that), and there are different variations available. The product is, in its simplest form, a fabric pocket filled with rice that either holds heat in when microwaved or frozen when placed in the freezer. It is meant to be utilized to help recover quicker and maintain a pain-free existance. What sets Ouch Wraps apart from other similair products is the quality and selection. No offense to my mother-in-law, but the stiching came apart quickly in hers. In other products, I have found the fabrics to be scratchy and boring in their appearance, as well . In Ouch Wraps, there are plenty of different patterns (including sports-themed, which is something that products like these sometimes neglect). Additionally, there are size options to choose from including products for headaches, back pain, shoulder pain, ankles, shoulders, and even for your little kiddos who steal your stuff! You can also choose to have it unscented, but there are even a few (lightly) scented options, which include berry, lavender, cookie!

Matt: I received the “Humbled” Ouch Wrap, which is 6″x26″ and is meant to be used to lay across your shoulders, the small of your back, hips, or wrap around knees.  This was perfect for me, as I have ongoing upper back and shoulder pain. My upper back has issues every 45 days or so and my acupuncturist has mentioned that I would do myself a favor by keeping it warm and loose. This product does exactly that.

The ultimate result is that this product works. It’s sort of difficult to go into specific detail about the product besides to say that it is functional and works great when heated or frozen. The only minor drawback I felt is that I felt that the inside was a tad too full for maximum comfort on the neck. When utilizing it this way, it felt bulkier than I would have liked, but still did the job. I felt it was the perfect size for the back and hips though. I can imagine that this is solely a personal comfort for me and others may find the sizing great for them. Ouch Wraps vary in price from $20-$40 depending on their size.

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