9. Indications and contraindications
User Manual – PhysioGo.Lite Electro page 80 / 96
Contraindications for electrotherapy
• patients with implanted electronic devices (e.g. cardiac pacemakers, cardioverter defibrillator, spinal cord
stimulator) – procedures on torso and thorax, especially dangerous frequencies 10 – 60 Hz
• patients with implanted implants (e.g. internal prostheses, bone screws) should consult a physician prior to
treatment
• surgical staples in the skin
• tissues protected with dressings or materials containing metal ions (silver, zinc)
• acute infections and inflammatory processes, active tuberculosis
• thrombophlebitis
exception: NMES (Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation) can be beneficial in thrombophlebitis
prevention when used prophylactically, e.g. after extensive surgery
• risk of an embolism
• diseases with the possibility of hemorrhages
exception: stimulation can be used in patients with bleeding disorders (hemophilia) after
administration of a clotting factor and remission of coagulopathy, TENS and NMES can be used to
reduce pain and improve muscle strength, without increased bleeding in people with hemophilia
• pregnancy (abdomen and lower part of the spine area)
exception: TENS can be safely applied to areas distant from the uterus, TENS is safe during labor
to reduce pain
• sensory disturbances
• pain of unknown etiology
• active tumor in the treatment area
exception: TENS can be used to treat pain in patients in palliative care, NMES can improve life
quality in the final stage of a neoplastic disease
• diseases with pyrexia
• superficial metal implants – special attention required
• peripheral artery occlusive disease, II b- IV (Fontaine)
• skin infections and inflammations, cutaneous changes at electrode application places
• cases, when the skin cannot be moistened
• recent surgery, unstable fracture, osteoporosis
• epilepsy
exception: TENS applied on limbs can reduce epileptic activity
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