Sys*Stim 206 Instruction Manual—
Rev. E_4/4/13
19
Section 5—Indications,
Contraindications, Precautions
and Adverse Reactions
5.1 Indications
The application of pulsating electric currents to the body via electrodes
elicits responses from nerves which conduct pain sensation and muscle
contraction information. Stimulation of sensory fibers will help block pain
while the stimulation of motor fibers will generate pulsatile contractions of
the muscle groups innervated by the nerves being stimulated.
Based on this information, some of the indications for use are as follow:
1. Symptomatic relief of chronic intractable pain, acute post traumatic
pain or acute post surgical pain.
(Narrow pulse only)
2. Temporary relaxation of muscle spasm.
3. Prevention of post–surgical phlebo–thrombosis through immediate
stimulation of calf muscles.
4. Increasing local blood circulation.
5. Prevention or retardation of disuse atrophy.
6. Muscle
re–education.
7. Maintaining or increasing range of motion.
8. Denervated or partially denervated muscles may be stimulated using
the pencil electrode to turn on and off the stimulus.
5.2 Contraindications
1. Application of galvanic (DC) current can produce skin irritation
leading to possible damage. (Knowledge of physiological effects of
continuous direct current is essential.)
2. Electrical neuromuscular stimulation should not be administered to
individuals who are or may be pregnant.
3. Do not stimulate a patient who has a cardiac demand pacemaker.
4. Patients with implanted electronic devices should not be subjected to
stimulation.
5. Placement of electrodes across the chest laterally or ante-
rior/posterior creates a possible hazard with cardiac patients and is
therefore not recommended. Do not use transthoracically in any
mode. Great care should be exercised in applying the electrical
stimulus current to any region of the thorax because the stimulus
current may produce cardiac arrhythmia. In patients with known heart
