Page 25 of 56
EN109-1498740-40 IFU
NMES
Absolute contraindications
NMES should NOT be applied in case of:
•
Active deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or thrombophlebitis
•
Active implants (incl. cardiac pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators - ICDs)
•
Areas of impaired circulation
•
Pregnancy
•
Tissue bleeding or to persons with untreated hemorrhagic disorders
•
Infection, tuberculosis or wounds with underlying osteomyelitis
•
Patients who do not comprehend the practitioner’s / physical therapist’s instructions or who are
unable to provide feedback about the treatment
Relative contraindications (= local contraindications)
•
Malignancy (do not apply over regions of known or suspected active malignancy)
•
Epilepsy (do not apply on neck or head)
•
Cardiac disturbances such as dysrhythmias (do not apply through the chest)
•
Heart failure (do not apply over anterior chest, heart or intercostal muscles).
Note: lower-extremity stimulation in patients with heart failure appears to be safe
.
•
Recently radiated tissue (do not apply to tissues that have received radiation therapy within the
previous 6 months)
•
Recent surgery, (skin) sutures, bone fracture or osteoporosis (avoid areas involved)
•
Electrode placement over dermatological lesions e.g. dermatitis, eczema or on frail or damaged
skin
•
Electrode placement over specific body areas:
o
Eyes
o
Anterior aspect of the neck or carotid sinus
o
Head
o
Chest, heart, intercostal muscles
o
Lower abdomen and internal organs
o
Reproductive organs or genitalia
o
Active epiphyseal regions in children
Note: There are no known adverse effects of administering NMES on skin over or close to metal implants
.
Precautions
•
Active epiphysis
•
Impaired sensation
•
Impaired cognition or communication
•
Skin disease (e.g. eczema): apply stimulation only over healthy skin
•
Regenerating nerves (apply with caution to superficial nerves)
Potential adverse effects
Skin irritation and etching beneath the electrodes have been reported with the use of therapeutic
electrical stimulation.
Isolated cases of skin irritation may occur in patients with particularly sensitive skin. In case of an
allergic reaction to the electrode gel, suspend the treatment and contact a specialist. If during the
treatment signs of tachycardia and extrasystole appear, suspend the treatment and contact your
physician.
