Abstract: An apparatus and method for warming blood of a user prior to distribution to an extremity of a user includes a source of energy suitable for distribution as heat. A transfer path connects the source of energy to a vascular distribution system including a contact pad. The contact pad is configured to conduct the distributed heat through a user's skin and into the user's bloodstream at a vascular surface location defined as a spot where a major blood vessel or vessels larger than capillaries pass sufficiently near the skin surface that heat may be conducted directly from the surface of the skin into the blood flowing through the major blood vessel or vessels toward a body extremity. A positioner connects to the contact pad and secures the contact pad in intimate and complete contact with the vascular surface location.