Frequently Asked Questions- MediTens
Q – What is TENS and MediTens® XP?
A –TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is widely used in the medical community as it is a clinically proven, safe and drug free method of pain relief. TENS works by sending comfortable pulses to the nerves, via the electrode pads placed on the skin and eases pain via Pain Gate Control and Endorphin Release.
The MediTens® XP is a battery operated, portable, two-channel TENS unit which is a clinically proven, safe and effective means of providing a drug free method of pain relief. The unit is digital, fully portable and lightweight, and can be used for an extended period, as required, to help manage your acute or chronic pain.
Q – How does TENS work?
A – TENS works in 2 ways;
- Pain Gate Control – In this mode, the patient feels a comfortable tingling or pulsing sensation which helps to block the pain pathway to the brain for immediate pain relief.
- Endorphin Release – After 20-40 minutes of use, the body naturally releases pain relieving endorphins, which remain in the system for up to several hours after treatment has ceased.
- For Labour– a trigger button can be utilised to deliver continuous impulse for both gate control and endorphin release.
Q – What type of pain can MediTens® XP help treat?
A – The Neurotech MediTens® XP can assist with, but is not limited to the following pain conditions, as well as during Labour:
- Back pain
- Neck / Shoulder pain
- Arthritic pain
- Post-Operative pain
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Knee pain
- Plantar Fasciitis and other Foot Pain
- Myalgia, Neuralgia and Fibromyalgia
- Period Pain (Dysmenorrhea)
It has also been used to relieve the symptoms of headache and migraine.
Q- How often should I use MediTens® XP?
A – Your prescribing clinician will advise you on the duration of your treatment program.
Q – What should I do if treatment becomes uncomfortable?
A – Effective treatment should not cause undue discomfort. If treatment does become painful, try lowering the intensity level slightly then gradually build back up to previous level. If discomfort persists it would be advisable to contact your prescribing clinician who will advise you on usage of MediTens® XP to minimise discomfort.
Q – Can MediTens® XP be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy?
A – MediTens® XP can be used as an adjunct therapy to most forms of therapy for pain relief.
Q – How often should I replace the adhesive electrodes?
A – This depends on several factors including skin type, storage conditions, and regularity of use. As a general rule, the electrodes should last at least 4 weeks with daily use. If usage is less, replacement should be less frequent. It is important to ensure the skin is clean and dry and thoroughly clear of any creams or lotions.
Indication of wear
- Controller goes into ‘safety mode’ with warning triangle on controller
- ‘high spots’ – pins and needles where current is not evenly distributed
- Adhesiveness reduces- not contacting with skin correctly
Q – What should I do if I experience an adverse reaction?
A – If any irritation, skin reaction, hypersensitivity or any adverse reaction is experienced, discontinue use and contact your prescribing clinician. A slight reddening of the skin is normal under the electrodes during and for a short time after treatment. This should disappear within approximately 30 minutes.
Q – Are there any Contraindications with MediTens® XP?
A – Do not use MediTens®XP if you have any electronic implants (e.g. Cardiac pacemaker or internal defibrillator) or if you are suffering from any other heart problems including any serious cardiac arrhythmia.
(for a full list of warnings and precautions please refer to page 4 and 5 of the MediTens® XP user manual)
Q – Who should I contact if I have additional queries?
A – Contact your prescribing Clinician or a member of the Recovery Muscle Ltd Support Team if you have any questions regarding usage of MediTens® XP.