(Medical question) Is it safe to put muscle stim (E.M.S.) on chest?

[Room101]

I just bought a muscle stimulator (powered by two AAA batteries =1.5 volts) that is commonly used in physical therapy treatment. I have had issues (I don't like using the "I" word) with my chest.

Specifically the left chest ribs 1 through 3.

Thanking you in advance,

[punpirate]

1. I wouldn't...

... but then, that's because the one I have says, "Don't do it."

Cheers.

[Dogmudgeon]

2. It wouldn't work anyway

TENS/EMS units work best on long nerves, like the ones that run through your arms, back, and legs. The sensory nerves in the chest are shorter and more dispersed.

A heating pad would probably be good for the chest.

--bkl

[Room101]

3. Wouldn't EMS increase blood flow as a result of contractions?

Is it safe to place EMS on your chest?
I'm curious do you work in the sports medicine field?

[Dogmudgeon]

10. Blood flow

You can more easily increase blood flow to a muscle by exercising the muscle. Muscle-relaxing exercises also work by increasing the perfusion of blood.

Electronic stimulation anywhere near the heart -- or placing electrodes so that the heart is in the middle, as with hand-to-hand electrodes -- can be dangerous. It requires a very good knowlege of anatomy AND cardiology. It's isn't worth the risk.

I don't work in sports medicine, but I used to work in neurology and biotechnology.

Good luck -- stay healthy!

--bkl

[salvorhardin]

4. Dude, I wouldn't!

As little as a tenth of a volt at very low amperage can disrupt electrical signals in the heart and you're talking about directly applying electrical stimulation to the area immediately around your heart. Unless atrial fibrilation excites you, I'd go for a less risky treatment, say, sit-ups.

I know, the risk is really tiny but why take the risk at all?

[Room101]

6. Until I get a Green light from my doctor I will refrain.

My uneducated guess is that he will give me the red light.
Bruce Lee was famous for using EMS on his chest and modern bodybuilders use it all the time. I will air on the side of caution.

;(;(;(;( I will just stick to my extremities ;(;(;(;(;(

Thanks,

[Fovea]

5. Before I answer that question

Who are you planning to vote for?

[Room101]

7. BUSH

as I feed my flying pigs this snowball from hell.

I hope you are being sarcastic.

[Fovea]

8. I hoped you would see the humor in it

As a Bush voter, I'd say have the handiman rewire it for more power.
220 AC should about do it.

/sarcasm

[SoCalDem]

9. If your name is Dick Cheney, my advice would be different,

but, I would ask the Dr first..:)..(Not Dr Frist)