I have a bad back, two major surgeries and arthritis has set in.  I refuse to quit, but when the weather changes I am miserable.  Heating pads are the only thing that have ever worked.  A lot of doctors recommend cold, but it doesn't work for me.  It's November and the weather is changing again!  My 15 year old heating pad quit the other night and I had to get something new.  I really hate being tied to a cord.  I saw this at my local Rite-Aid and asked the pharmacist if he thought it would be good.  He told me he had one at home and loved it.  I was told keep the receipt and return it if I didn't like it.  I will NEVER return it!  It is a soft, gentle heat that lasts for about an hour.  I can strap it to myself and cook, do laundry, walk the dog, do whatever and keep the heat with me.  When it cools off, I pop it in the microwave and I'm good to go again.  I am no longer tied to a cord and love it.  If you need a heating pad (haven't tried the cold part of it) I really think you should get this.  FREEDOM!!!!