Properly caring for your therapeutic home unit’s [like a TENS, NEMS or IF unit] electrodes (also known as sticky pads or electrode pads) is important to ensure the best pain-relieving results. But caring for your electrodes and its sticky conductive gel will also help them last longer and save you money…who doesn’t love that!
Here are a few tips on best practices before you buy your new supplies:
-Use High-Quality Electrodes
Buying high-quality electrodes can improve the performance of your TENS unit and will improve your pain relief. It will also increase how long your electrode pads last. Cheaper, generic or lower-quality electrodes will likely not last as long and you will need to buy more over time.
**Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a high-quality electrode for sensitive skin, try our Uni-Patch™ Stimulating 2” x 2” Aloe Vera Gel Electrodes for Sensitive Skin.
-Buy Electrodes from a Licensed Supplier
To ensure you are receiving the highest quality supplies which are safe and affordable, it is important to buy your electrodes from a licensed supplier who has been approved and licensed by the FDA and other government agencies to sell clinical-strength therapeutic units, electrodes and other supplies.
**Pain Care Outlet has been a licensed supplier since 1989 (30+ years) and is a proud small, family-owned and operated business.
Here are some care tips for maintaining and caring for your TENS unit electrodes:
– Clean Your Skin Before Use
Clean the skin in the preferred treatment area where you will be placing the electrodes with soap or alcohol prep pads. Allow area to dry thoroughly.
**Pro Tip: Remove using any oils or lotions on the treatment area that may interfere with the gel adhesive on the electrodes.
-Proper Removal
When removing the electrodes, peel them off gently from the edge rather than pulling from the wires, this prevents damage to both the electrodes and the skin.
-Rotate Electrode Placement
Avoid placing the electrodes on the same spot every time to prevent skin irritation or sensitivity. Rotate the placement to different areas of the skin to allow each area to recover.
– Proper Storage
After each use, place the electrodes back on the plastic liner and place this liner inside the re-sealable plastic bag provided with the electrodes. Store the electrodes in a cool, dry place [away from direct heat and sunlight] in a sealed bag to prevent the gel conductive adhesive from drying out.
-Cleaning the Electrodes
If the electrodes become dirty, you can gently clean them with a damp cloth (do not use alcohol or any harsh chemicals). Allow them to air dry completely before reapplying to the skin.
-Avoid Contamination
Do not touch the gel side of the electrodes with dirty, sticky or oily hands. Keep the gel surface free from dust, lint and hair.
– Check for Damage
Regularly inspect the electrodes for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or loss of the gel adhesion. Replace the electrodes if they no longer stick well or if the gel is dry, cracked or damaged. To ensure connectivity with your therapeutic units ensure there are no exposed wires on the point of connection.
-Rotate Electrode Placement
Avoid placing the electrodes on the same spot every time to prevent skin irritation or sensitivity. Rotate the placement to different areas of the skin to allow each area to recover.
-Follow Manufacturer Instructions
Always refer to the user manual for specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer of your therapeutic unit, electrodes and other supplies.
**Pro Tip: If you own an EMPI Select Tens unit or EMPI Continuum, please check out two of our EMPI Premium Care Kits (Only $35) EMPI Starter Care Kit or EMPI Back Care Kit.
By following these care tips, you can ensure your electrodes will provide comfortable, consistent relief for as long as possible. Both your body and your wallet will thank you!
Click Here! if you want to purchase additional electrodes & supplies for your therapeutic unit.