Where do you place the TENS electrodes?

[Bethrlk]

Hi All,

I had been in remission for 5 glorious months and now an IC flare is back with a vengeance. :(

I recently was given a TENS unit from a friend, with 4 circular electrodes. Can anyone tell me where the electrodes are supposed to go, and for how long each session should be?

Thanks a bunch - BETH

[waterflow]

I only have 2 electrodes and one I put right over the bladder and the other goes above the hair line. I leave mine on 24/7.

[Bethrlk]

Hi Mary,

Thanks for your response - I am going to try it out tonight!

BETH (-:

[waterflow]

Just shave first. I didn't with the first try and talk about pain when taking the electrodes off. :wink:

[sweetangel2080]

sorry to revive an old post

But was searching on this as got a TENS today and wanted to know where you placed the sticky pads??


i find the lowe abdomen area, just above the bikini line extremly sensitive to the TENS stimulation but alittle higher or either side is okay...

[Jennyanniedots]

I have four, and I actually place mine in a weird spot that seems to help my PFD. Not sure if you are having that issue as well, but.... I put two on my lower spine, right above the butt. And the other two, one inside each butt cheek where the painful muscles are. Actually, really far in - really close to the sit bones, if you know what I mean. If you sit on your hand you will probably feel your pelvis jut out on the bottom. I have heard others who use four say they put two on the spine and two right above the bikini line.

[ICNDonna]

You really should be talking with your doctor or physical therapist about placement.

Donna

[sweetangel2080]

I did Donna,
and they said anywhere the pain is

a little vague hey!

[Bea]

i got the same answer.. where I feel the pain.. I place the four on by tummy below my belly butten, and it seems to help me the most

[gigisgirl]

I have had mine for over a month but just are sure if it's doing it. When I have it on it seems to take the pain way, or makes my mind concentrate on its vibration more then the pain. But the minute I take it off the pain is back again. Some one above said they use theirs 24/7 is that safe? Mine is an IF machine not quite a TENS. I think they said mine was stronger then a TENS but I have forgotten now. Maybe it was the other way around.

[BBB]

Gigi you are correct. The IF3 Wave is much stronger and the first type of "TENS" type therapy that has a specific IC setting. The actual TENS units are pretty antiquated, but it doesn't mean a person can't get relief from them.

Also, the placement of "pads" for either unit is discretionary according to the Companies that make the units. They train M.D.s and P.T.s to tell the user to adhere them where they seem to get the best relief. Placement was important in older units because the electronics weren't that sophisticated and improper placement could really hurt someone.

I think we will be hearing a lot more about the IF3 Wave. According to Dr. Brookoff and several top IC experts, this is the future for electronic stimulation. It is already a great alternative to those who don't want to do the Interstim because it is so invasive. And with the BION not going to market, I believe we will see more of these units in the IC treatment arsenal. Also, it is becoming very affordable to own outright.

I have been using it for just over a year and I love it!!! It works so well.

[gigisgirl]

BBB so you are using a IF machine? How often in a day do you use it? My PT said at least 3 times a day for 20 mins. Where are you placing the leads?
Thnaks,
jill