Most texts about EMS are about what it can do. This one is about when it is out of the question. This is the shorter, but more important text.
Why there are contraindications at all
EMS works with electrical impulses in the body. This is unproblematic for healthy adults because the impulses are weak and remain superficial. It becomes relevant where something else in the body also reacts to electrical signals or where tissue should not be strained.
The clear contraindications
EMS must not be used in the following cases:
- Pacemaker, implanted defibrillator, or another active implant. This is the most important contraindication of all. An external impulse can interfere with the function of such a device. There is no low level at which it is acceptable as an exception.
- Pregnancy. Regardless of the week and regardless of where the electrodes are placed.
- Epilepsy or another seizure disorder.
- Cardiac arrhythmias and severe cardiovascular diseases.
- Thrombosis or a known predisposition to it.
- Acute infections and fever.
- Cancer, current or in treatment.
- Metal implants in the application area.
- Open wounds, rashes, eczema, fresh scars, or sunburn on the area where the electrodes are placed.
- Reduced skin sensation, such as with nerve damage. Those who cannot feel if a level is too high have no feedback.
When prior medical consultation is necessary
These points do not automatically mean no, but they must be discussed beforehand:
- After childbirth, even if it was a long time ago. More on this in our own article EMS after pregnancy
- During breastfeeding
- High blood pressure, even if treated
- Diabetes, especially with nerve involvement
- Chronic back conditions or herniated discs
- After surgery in the application area
- When taking medication that affects muscles or nerves
EMS is not intended for use by those under 18 years of age.
Reasons to stop during application
Switch off if the following occurs:
- Pain, not just an unusual feeling
- Dizziness or nausea
- Heart palpitations or the feeling that your pulse is irregular
- Skin redness that does not subside within an hour after application
- Burning or stinging in a single spot instead of an area-wide tension
For the first three points, the following applies: switch off and have it clarified by a doctor. Do not try again the next day to see if it happens again.
The most common misconception
"I'll start at a low level, then it's safe." This is true for tolerance, but not for contraindications. A pacemaker is just as incompatible at level 1 as it is at level 19. The list above is not a cautionary note for the fine print, but a yes-no decision.
Why we write this in such detail
You could keep it shorter. A sentence in the fine print would probably be legally sufficient.
The reason why it is stated here in detail anyway: it is better not to sell a product to someone who is not allowed to use it. A return is cheaper than a health problem, and a text that conceals disadvantages is in the end just a text that one does not believe.
If you are unsure whether one of the points applies to you: ask your doctor. This is not a platitude at the end of the text, but the only way to clarify it safely.