Contraindications, Warnings and Precautions

Associated With Electrotherapy Usage

 

                        This information is provided as a public service, only.

                        Please consult with your physician or therapist for before using

                        any type of electrotherapy equipment.

 

Contraindications:

Do not use electrotherapy devices with demand type cardiac pacemakers, over the carotid sinus, transcerebrally, over the eyes, on patients diagnosed with cancer or undiagnosed pain syndromes until etiology has been established.

 

Warnings and Precautions:

Note: Federal law restricts the sale of electrotherapy devices upon the recommendation of a physician or other state licensed practitioner.

1.      The long-term effects of electrical stimulation are unknown.

2.      Safety of electrical stimulation for use during pregnancy, labor and delivery has not been established for either the mother or the fetus.

3.      Adequate protection should be taken in the care of a person with suspected heart problems.

4.      Adequate protection should be taken in the care of a person with suspected or diagnosed epilepsy.

5.      Do not stimulate over the carotid sinus nerves, especially in patients with a known sensitivity to the carotid sinus reflex.

6.      Severe spasm of the laryngeal and pharyngeal muscles may occur when electrodes are positioned over the throat or the mouth.  The contractions may be strong enough to close airways or cause difficulty in breathing.

7.      Electrical stimulation should not be used when driving a vehicle or operating potentially dangerous machinery or equipment.

8.      Do not stimulate over the eyes or transcerebrally.

9.      Electrical stimulation can mask pain, impairing detection and diagnosis of disease.  Electrical stimulation is not a substitute for proper medical evaluation and treatment.   Careful evaluation by a physician and/or therapist should precede the use of any electrical stimulation device.

10.  If irritation develops at electrodes sites, discontinue use of those sites and consult your therapist or physician.

11.  If treatment becomes ineffective or unpleasant, discontinue stimulation until reevaluation by a therapist or physician.

12.  Always turn the stimulation device off before applying or removing electrodes.

13.  Do not use in the presence of explosives of flammables.

14.  Keep all stimulation devices out of the reach of children.