Maximizing Pain Relief | Aug '98 Newsletter

T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S

Therapy Closeup

First Aid Stimulation

Electrical stimulation is a very important addition to any first aid regime, because it is an 'active' therapy. Unlike other components of the R.I.C.E. approach (explained below), electrical stimulation is not used simply to minimize the damage of the injury - but to initiate healing and of course, for pain relief. In fact, BioStim™ can be used for all musculoskeletal injuries where pain relief is required and external bleeding has stopped.

BioStim™ therapy should always be used in conjunction with the R.I.C.E. protocol:

REST
The activity should not continue - cease it immediately.

ICE
When the area is cooled, internal bleeding is minimized and some pain relief is possible.

COMPRESSION
When there is moderate pressure applied to the injury, swelling is kept at bay - (overall rehabilitation time can be reduced if swelling is not allowed to reach excessive levels).

ELEVATION
If the injury is in the periphery of the arm or leg, the injury should be raised above the level of the heart - (once again, this is a measure to reduce internal bleeding and minimize swelling).

ELECTRODES
Should be applied underneath the compression bandages -(for the machine settings see our First Aid Treatment protocol).

INITIALLY
BioStim™ should be thought of exclusively as a pain relieving measure. Remember, the stimulation should be very gentle, and should be used continuously to minimize the damage. This can go on for the first 48 hours after an injury.

DIAGNOSIS
The advise of a health professional should be sought out immediately.

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