Your physician decides whether you need this and writes the order. We fit it to you before you leave.

What is it?

Your physician orders the mode, how long to use it and how often. We set it up, show you how to place the pads, and send you home with written steps.

How does it help a sore back?

Back pain tends to spike at the worst times: after a long drive, at the end of a work shift, at bedtime. Having relief on hand helps you keep moving and lean less on pain medicine.

It does not fix the cause. It buys you comfort so you can keep doing the exercises that do.

How should it feel?

Under the pads you should feel a firm but pleasant tingle, and never pain.

How do you use it and care for it?

Clean and dry the skin around the sore part of your back, then place the pads at least 1 inch apart. Return the pads to their plastic backing after each use, and swap in new ones once they lose their stick. If a pad leaves the skin red or burned, or you turn dizzy or notice a racing heartbeat, switch the unit off and phone us.

When should you call us?

• Not on the front of the neck, the eyes, the chest or any broken skin
• Not while you drive, use machinery or sleep, and never in a tub or shower
• Not if you have a pacemaker or implanted stimulator, or are pregnant, unless your physician has cleared it

We show you how to put it on or set it up, how to use it and how to take it off, and you show us before you go home. Call (314) 886-5904 if it hurts, does not fit or stops working.

More on this site: night back pain, sleep and back pain.

Other equipment in the program

• Exercise bands
• Back brace

This page is part of our physiotherapy program for back pain, where a physician orders, supervises and re-checks every step.