Chiropractors/USING A TENS ON THE CHEST?

Advertisement

Expert: - 1/17/2008


Question
I HAVE A FRIEND WHO HAS BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH CHEST PAINS (NOT HEART RELATED!!  PULLED MUSCLE) AND HE HAS BEEN USING HIS TENS UNIT ACROSS THE CHEST WALL.  I HAD READ ONLINE THAT THIS WAS UNSAFE AS IT COULD STOP THE HEART, AND ALSO FROM MANY OTHERS, THAT THEY DO IT WITH NO ILL EFFECTS AND ARE INSTRUCATED TO DO SO.  COULD I HAVE YOUR OPINION ON THIS?  IS IT SAFE, AND IF SO, IS THERE A PROPER AND IMPROPER WAY HE SHOULD BE DOING THIS?  THANK YOU!!

Answer
Hello Krystie,

  I hope your friend went to see a cardiologist! It is not recommended to use and device that uses any type of current over the heart!  If they think it's muscle related he should see a doctor of chiropractic to determine the cause and recieve the correct treatment.

Have a great day,
Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.

Chiropractors

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C.

Expertise

Questions related to: Chiropractic, Physical Therapy, Soft Tissue Treatment, Nutrition, Acupuncture, and the integration of Chinese and Western medicine.

Experience

Dr. O'Brien is a highly skilled doctor of Chiropractic who has come to Minneapolis, Minnesota from Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. O'Brien has a extensive knowledge of sports related injuries and myofascial conditions. Dr. O'Brien has competed in Judo, Mountain Biking, Road Cycling, Free-Style Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, Baseball, Basketball, and continues to compete in Mountain Biking, Road Cycling, and Cross-Country Skiing.

Education/Credentials
D.C., Certified Acupuncturist in Minnesota.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.