Optimal use of electrostimulation devices requires to a large extent to keep all their components in proper condition, so that they can maintain a stable function and as long a useful life as possible. This task is especially complex when it comes to the electrodes of the electrostimulator, one of the most important parts and one that wears out most easily due to its constant contact with the skin.
For this reason, it is necessary to keep in mind that there are a series of indispensable procedures to clean the pads of your electro stimulator safely, without compromising its function, its integrity. In the following paragraphs, we will teach you the necessary techniques to clean the electrodes of your electrotherapy machine correctly, how to preserve their useful life and what you can do with old pads.
Why should the electrodes pads of a TENS or EMS device be cleaned?
In general, the electrodes included in an electrostimulation device are specially calibrated to work with it, so the best thing to do is to keep them in optimal conditions. To do this, it is necessary to apply a cleaning process.
This is because the patches have an adhesive gel by means of which they adhere to the skin. This gel is the main cause of the need to clean them, since in addition to adhering to the skin, it captures particles of dust, dirt, dirt, dead skin, lint, among many other things that can reduce or eliminate the effect of the gel.
When the electrodes are not properly maintained, they deteriorate very quickly, losing adherence and forcing the need to purchase new electrodes, which can have a considerable price, depending on the brand of the device.
How to clean the electrodes pads of TENS/EMS electrostimulator?
Although the maintenance and cleaning of the electrodes is important, it is necessary to take into consideration the fact that, if not done correctly, it can result in the total loss of the adhesive gel, rendering the electrodes completely ineffective.
That is why it is necessary to have certain materials and follow certain steps to clean them correctly.
The necessary materials are:
- A refrigerator
- A clean cloth, without cloth residue
- Adhesive gel
- Distilled water
Once you have gathered the necessary materials, you just need to follow these steps:
- Moisten the patch with the distilled water
- Remove dust and dirt from the pad with the cloth, rubbing lightly to avoid removing the adhesive gel
- If necessary, apply a light layer of adhesive gel on the electrode
- Place the pad in the cooler
This is the most effective method to keep the electrodes free of dirt, and the low temperatures of the cooler preserve the adherence of the gel, thus achieving a much longer life for the pad.
When should I replace the electro stimulator pads?
In order to obtain the best results in each session, one of the main factors is the condition and quality of the electrodes. For this reason, despite maintenance, it is necessary to change the pads after a certain period of time.
In general, the most common recommendation is to change the pads after 20 to 30 sessions, depending on how well the electrodes have been cared for. It is also important to make sure to cover the adhesive with clean plastic to keep them protected between sessions.
Is it safe to use an old electrode pad?
How safe it is to use old pads will depend largely on the condition of the pads. If the pad has cracks, fissures or holes, there is a high risk of the cable coming into contact with the skin, generating an uncomfortable sensation in the patient.
In case the pad is in good condition, and only lacks adherence, all you have to do is apply some adhesive gel to be able to use them in a completely safe way.
Tips for caring for the electrode pads of TENS unit or EMS machine
While cleaning the pads is an important step to extend their life as long as possible, it is necessary to prioritize the prevention of electrode damage so that maintenance is not necessary until later in the pads' life.
With this in mind, here are some tips for keeping your electrodes in optimal condition:
- Clean the skin before each session: make sure that the skin is free of dust, dirt or fabric debris before applying the electrode, so that it gets as little dirty as possible
- Be careful with the cables: the cables of the electrostimulation device are delicate, so be sure not to pull them when you are applying the electrotherapy sessions
- Cover the electrodes with their protective plastic: at the end of each session, cover the electrodes with their protective plastic to maintain the adhesive gel adherence for as long as possible
- Keep the pads in a cool and dry place: keeping the pads in a suitable environment is the best option to maintain their durability in the long term, since hot environments produce adverse effects on the electrode adhesive
- Avoid cleaning the electrodes in their early stages: at the beginning of their lifetime, electrode adhesion is at its peak, so cleaning at this stage can be counterproductive. Leave cleaning for when the electrodes start to lose adhesion.
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