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Chapter 8: ELECTRODES AND ELECTRODE PLACEMENT
General electrode information:
Electrodes should be routinely replaced when they start to lose their adhesive nature. If you are
unsure of your electrode adhesive properties, order replacement electrodes. Replacement electrodes
should be re-ordered through your local dealer or call Zewa customer service. Follow application
procedures outlined on electrode packaging to maintain optimal stimulation and to prevent skin
irritation.
Electrode Placement:
The placement of electrodes can be one of the most important parameters in achieving success
with TENS / EMS therapy. Of utmost importance is the willingness of the clinician to try the various
styles of electrode placement to find which method best fits the needs of the individual patient. Every
patient responds to electrical stimulation differently and their needs may vary from the conventional
setting suggested here. If the initial results are not positive, feel free to experiment. Once an
acceptable placement has been achieved, mark down the electrodes sites and the settings, so that
the patient can easily continue treatment at home.
Contiguous Electrode Placement:
This is the most common placement technique. It involves pacing the electrodes alongside the area
of localized pain sites, in such a way as to direct the flow of current through or around the area of
pain. In a single channel application, this would involve placing each electrode on either side of the
pain site if the pain is localized on the limb and deep within the tissue. Electrode placement on the
posterior and anterior aspects of the affected limb will allow the current to flow completely through
the limb and thus through the endogenous pain site. With a 2 channel application, the clinician may
either direct the current flow to cross through the pain site or in what is called the “bracket” method
allowing the current flow on either side of the painful area, generally through the nerve branches that
feed into the pain site.
Note:
Electrodes should be placed between 0.5” – 2” apart from each other.
Caution: The device should be in the OFF position before placing the electrodes on your skin.
