Electrode Selection And Care - Empi EPIX VT Instruction Manual

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WB GENERAL OPERATION
Just as pain is an individual sensation, so is pain relief. Pain relief
regimens vary from person to person. Some patients may
experience pain relief by using the device for only a few minutes a
day. In some cases, continuous use of TENS may be required to
control pain. Sometimes complete pain relief is not achieved
immediately, but improves with time. Your clinician will help you
determine the treatment regimen or program that is right for you.
TENS should be used only under a clinician's directions.
Electrode Selection and Care
The Epix VT TENS device provides the best results when used with
Empi electrodes and accessories. A variety of these products are
available for your convenience. Your clinician or authorized Empi
representative can help you select the appropriate products.
To avoid skin irritation and ensure good contact with your skin,
care for the electrodes as instructed on the electrode package.
Care will vary with the type of electrode.
Initiating Treatment
STEP 1: Prepare the Skin
Before attaching the electrodes, identify those areas where your
Clinician has recommended electrode placement. Wash the area
gently with mild soap and water, then rinse and dry the area
thoroughly. (The use of rubbing alcohol is discouraged except
where necessary to decrease excessive oils on the skin.) It may
42 be necessary to trim excess body hair with scissors prior to
applying the electrodes. Do not shave the area immediately before
beginning treatment. Wait 24 hours after shaving an area before
initiating treatment at that site. Failure to adequately prepare the
skin may cause improper adhesion or skin irritation and provide
less than ideal stimulation.
Note: Skin is not accustomed to exposure to the electrode gel and
adhesives used with TENS. While Empi takes great care and tests
all electrode materials to avoid problems, irritation may appear as
redness, small pimple-like lesions, or blisters. If your skin
develops any persistent redness or irritation, do not continue to
apply the electrodes to the same area. Discuss this with your
Clinician or call your Empi representative.
STEP 2: Connect the Lead Wires to the Electrodes
Connect the lead wires to the electrodes before applying the
electrodes to the skin. This will reduce the possibility of dislodging
the electrodes.
STEP 3: Attach the Electrodes
Place the electrodes on the skin as recommended by your
Clinician. Generally, the electrodes should be at least two inches
apart; however, your clinician will work with you to determine the
most effective electrode placement. The electrodes should be
comfortable to wear and should be placed exactly where you have
been shown. The most common problems with TENS therapy are
caused by failure to wear the electrodes as directed.