What to Expect
Scrambler Therapy sessions last between 45-60 minutes and are typically performed on consecutive days.
The first couple of sessions will be used to determine if your condition is responsive to Scrambler Therapy.
80-90% of patients are responsive and can be treated. But if you feel no relief, there is no obligation to continue therapy and no additional cost.
Treatment sessions are complete when you have sustained pain or numbness relief for a full 24 hours. If relief lasts 48 hours, this indicates the “no-pain message” has taken hold and may last for 3-12 months before potentially needing booster treatments (1-2) to remind your nervous system of the non-pain message.
The chart on the right shows an example of how Scrambler Therapy can progress.
- Plan to wean from/discontinue interfering meds—these include gabapentin, lyrica, anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine, muscle relaxants, and ketamine among others.
- Fill out all new patient paperwork.
- No skin wounds or shaving area to be treated prior or during treatments.
- No lotion, oils or topicals to the areas we will be treating.
- Limit alcohol two weeks prior to treatments-no more than one per day.
- Stop all products containing THC or marijuana.
- If you have a prior history of allergic reaction to adhesive, take an antihistamine 30 minutes prior to arrival.
- Wear comfortable clothes giving consideration for areas in which we will be treating (i.e. shorts if treating lower extremities or clothes to change into).
- Please no electronic devices such as phones, tablets, computers, or ipads.
- Aim for relaxation and calm during treatments. Focusing on the healing you are experiencing will be helpful both during sessions and after you have completed treatments.
- If tolerating treatments well, we may be able to implement some light exercise such as a stationary elliptical during treatments.
- Silence and rest can create a relaxing environment for healing during sessions. It is perfectly fine to simply sit and remain quiet or meditate during your session.
- It is acceptable to read during treatments but do plan to avoid use of electronics.
- Limit alcohol consumption two weeks prior to treatments as well as during sessions as alcohol can interfere with Scrambler Therapy. Instead, focus on increased hydration and healthy dietary intake which will promote healing and restoration.
- Rest is an important part of healing. Plan to continue resting as treatments may result in some fatigue. Pay attention to your body and give it the rest it needs to recover.
- Remember to pace yourself and listen to your body, but consider taking some time to enjoy some of the local attractions and our beautiful surroundings.
- Sleep is important for restorative healing. Aim for a minimum of 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night.