14.10.4.3 Electrode position
Two stimulation channels are used, ensuring they are switched on in the correct order, as this determines
the order in which the channels deliver stimulation. With the Lumbosciatica programme, the endorphinic
stimulation is always provided on channel 1, whereas the TENS stimulation is delivered by channels 2, 3 and
4.
For endorphinic treatment:
• A small electrode is placed on the top of the root of the sciatic nerve, which is painful to palpate.
For optimum eectiveness, the positive pole should preferably be positioned on this painful area.
• Another small electrode is placed two finger-widths above the previous electrode and is attached to the
negative pole of the same channel
For TENS treatment:
Two large electrodes are placed on the path of the sciatic nerve:
• one on the lower part of the buttock and
• the other on the posterior thigh.
• The second channel is connected to these large, single-output electrodes.
Note
The 3rd and/or 4th channel (TENS) can be used in two situations:
- In the event of more extensive irradiation in the common peroneal or tibial nerves. Two large
electrodes are therefore placed longitudinally on the calf (tibial) or laterally (common peroneal) on
the lower leg and are connected by a channel.
- If the patient does not like endorphinic stimulation in the lumbar region two large electrodes are
placed to the lumbar region and are connected by a channel.
14.10.4.4 Patient position
The patient is placed in the position he/she finds the most comfortable: in the prone position (with a
cushion or on a specially designed table to prevent lordosis) or in the side lying position.
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