Tens machine and pacemaker???

[Dorrymt]

Help please. I have multiple problems Inc AF recently diagnosed, high blood pressure (controlled) and spinal arthritis. 2017 I had a bad fall onto my face which led to a subdural brain haemorrhage which needed surgery.

When I last had a problem with my lower back I used a tens machine.

Is it safe to use one now? I have had a heart attack and seven stents in 3 arteries and a pacemaker fitted for bradycardia.

I cannot take anticoagulants for the AF because of the brain bleed.

Sorry for the length of this. Any advice appreciated.

[Patricia1]

I have a pacemaker and I was told by a consultant that I could not use a TENS machine

[iris1205]

Sorry to hear of your complications and difficulties Dorrynt. I use a device called Frequency Specific Microcurrent FSM as a practitioner and we are advised not to use it on a pacemaker patient without first having consulted with the manufacturer. TENS works in mille ampères and FSM in micro ampères. There are fabulous Frequency Specific Microcurrent practitioners in the UK thanks to a school for such in Dublin. Worth looking into! Hope you feel better soon.

[Dorrymt in reply to iris1205]

Thank you. Will check with Papworth who fitted and monitor the device.

[iris1205 in reply to Dorrymt]

It is very important ! Current cannot be run on any "demand type pacemaker" unless you've received an ok from the maker. And if ok, the current should be run above the clavicles and below the waist. Hope you find relief!

[BG2017]

Hi - please seek official medical advice. From information I was given when I had my pacemaker implanted, TENS machines should not be used.

I hope your back starts to feel better soon.

[Dorrymt in reply to BG2017]

Thank you. I really don't want to give up yet.

[seasider18]

Neither did I but the answer is no to TENs machines.

[Dorrymt]

Thank you all for your help. I am returning the pacemaker unopened. I should have thought about the pacemaker before I ordered it but I ave had my device for a few years and tend not to think about it. Thank you again.