Enraf-Nonius
8
•
This device should not be used over cancerous lesions.
•
Electrode placements that apply current to the carotid sinus region (anterior neck) must
be avoided.
•
Electrode placements that apply current transcereberally (trough the head) must be
avoided.
•
Electrode placements that apply current transthoracically (the introduction of electrical
current into the heart may cause cardiac arrhythmias) must be avoided.
Warnings:
•
Benefits of TENS currents have not been established for pain of central origin.
•
This device is to be used as a symptomatic treatment for pain and has no curative
value. Patients should be cautioned and their activities regulated if pain that would
otherwise serve as a protective mechanism is suppressed.
•
The long-term effects of chronic electrical stimulation are unknown.
•
Pregnant women should not be treated with the TensMed S84 during the first trimester
(12 weeks).
•
Stimulation should not be applied over swollen, infected, or inflamed areas of skin
eruptions e.g., phlebitis, thrombophlebitis, varicose veins, etc.
•
See also chapter 3, Precautionary Instructions, for general Warnings and Precautions.
Precautions:
•
Isolated cases of skin rash may occur at the site of electrode placement following long-
term applications. The irritation may be reduced by use of an alternate conductive
medium or an alternative electrode placement.
•
Effectiveness of this treatment is dependent upon patient selection.
Adverse Effects:
•
In general TENS currents do not cause skin irritation and burns beneath the electrodes
due to the characteristics of these currents.
5.2 NMES
NMES (Neuro Muscular Electrical Stimulation) is used successfully both in medical rehabilitation
and in athletic training as a complement to on all levels.
The goal of electrical muscle stimulation is to achieve contractions or vibrations in the muscles.
Normal muscular activity is controlled by the central and peripheral nervous systems, which
transmit electrical signals to the muscles. NMES works similarly but uses an external source (the
stimulator) with electrodes attached to the skin for transmitting electrical impulses into the body.
The impulses stimulate the nerves to send signals to a specifically targeted muscle, which reacts
by contracting, just as it does with normal muscular activity.
Electrical muscle stimulation is suitable for all the muscles in the body. It can be used to
strengthen muscles weakened by surgery, a fracture, etc., and improve mobility. It is also an
excellent tool for stroke rehabilitation, helping patients in handgrip and gait training.
Electrical muscle stimulation for rehabilitation purposes should be tried out individually by a
physiotherapist or other caregiver for the best results.
