Are there contraindications? (When not to use a BioWave device)

Contraindications

  • DO NOT USE on patients with a cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator as the stimulator may interfere with its function.
  • DO NOT USE any electrodes over the heart or across the thoracic volume. Electrodes can be applied to the back of the thorax and lateral aspect of the upper limb (i.e. below/down the shoulder).
  • DO NOT PLACE the electrodes on the front or side of the neck.
  • DO NOT PLACE electrodes on top of the head.
  • DO NOT USE on patients prone to seizure (for example, epileptics).
  • DO NOT PLACE electrodes and DO NOT USE the stimulator over open wounds, broken skin, rashy skin or sensitive skin areas (e.g. sunburned skin).

Warnings

  • Electrodes must never touch each other
    – Minimum Spacing Between Electrodes = 1 inch
    – No Maximum Spacing Between Electrodes
  • Do NOT use electrodes if:
    – The metal portion of the wire is exposed; or
    – The gel has peeled apart from the black carbon surface; or
    – The surface of the hydrogel is worn down
  • Pregnancy – BioWave CAN BE USED on pregnant patients. Anecdotal evidence suggests BioWave may be helpful with back and hip pain in pregnant patients. However, PADS CANNOT BE PLACED over the belly of a pregnant patient. Patients should consult with their physician regarding use of BioWave during pregnancy & labor. See BioWave’s protocol for use during pregnancy.
  • Cancer – BioWave CAN BE USED on patients with cancer. Please consult with your physician prior to use.

BioWave MAY be used for the following:

  • BioWave stimulators MAY BE USED on patients with implanted drug pumps, spinal cord stimulators, peripheral nerve stimulators or other implanted electrical stimulation devices. Implanted electrical stimulation devices should first be turned off remotely before using BioWave.
  • Electrodes MAY BE PLACED on the back of the neck and bioccipitally on the back of the skull.
  • BioWave electrodes MAY BE PLACED and BioWave stimulators MAY BE USED over scar tissue, tattoos or any other intact skin area.
  • BioWave stimulators MAY BE USED to treat over body locations that have implanted orthopedic hardware made from metal or other materials including total joint replacements, pins, screws, plates, rods, and anchors.