Electrodes are used to facilitate the conduction of an electrical signal into the body for rehabilitative or pain control purposes.They come in several alternative sizes and shapes.
The most important goal for these devices is creating and maintaining a sound electrical connection between the patient’s skin and the device producing the electrical signal. The device could be a TENS machine, an ultrasound or EMS unit or anything else.
Some of the better ones are equipped with a hydrogel coating for better conductivity. In addition to their conductivity, these types are easier to apply and remove. They also don’t leave a sticky residue after removal and you can re-use them on multiple occasions.
If you have a latex allergy, you may be able to obtain latex free electrodes. These are also an optimal choice for those with generally sensitive skin.
Electrodes with a cloth backing are designed for user comfort. If this is a high priority, they may be the optimal choice. They also offer superior conformability to ones with foam backing, albeit at a generally higher price.
As mentioned above, electrodes come in various sizes and shapes. The smallest ones are around 1” to 2” square, or they may be circular with a diameter around 2”.
The square 2” by 2” electrode is the most widely sold one on the market today. They are usually used in sets of 4. A typical pack would contain 10 sets of these “4-packs”
The small square shape of these electrodes facilitates their use on small areas, especially when these are part of a larger contoured region of the body. They can “pinpoint” these small areas for pain control.
Although we refer to them as “round”, the electrodes in this category actually may be purchased with either circular or oval shapes. They are usually a good choice for pinpointing very small areas for localized pain control or rehabilitation of injured muscles. Examples of these would be the knees and elbows which, although highly contoured, can in many cases easily accommodate 2″ round electrodes with adequate conformance.
These are a popular choice for use on larger areas like the lower back area. This is one of the most prevalent sources of pain for individuals of all ages. In addition, lower back pain tends to occur over a large area, so smaller electrodes would not be adequate.
Larger butterfly shaped electrodes help to distribute the electrical signal reliably across a large surface area. In addition, the back is less contoured than other areas (like the shoulders) so the larger size of these ones does not present a problem.
In addition to the shapes mentioned above, you can buy electrodes in long rectangular shapes.
This shape is usually a good choice for for long flat areas such as the spine. They are also a good choice for body areas like calves, thighs, biceps or triceps. You can just wrap them around these areas for optimal coverage while still maintaining good contact throughout the surface area of the electrode.
Another important difference between various electrode models is the type of connection they are fitted with. There are two general types of connection – pigtail or snap.
These are the most prevalent type of connection. They are equipped with a short wire (the pigtail) extending from the electrode pad. This wire is used as the connection point to the TENS or other machine.
This type of connector is a standard 3.5mm diameter snap.The lead wires from the TENS or other machine producing the signal can be easily connected to the snap. In general, snap connectors are reliable attachment points that keep the electrodes connected to the machine during use.
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DURA-STICK® Plus Self-Adhesive Electrodes boast a carbon conductive film built into a flexible backing made from spun lace as well as a PermaGel Hydrogel for improved conformability to your body contours.
DURA-STICK® Premium Self-Adhesive Electrodes feature a highly conductive silver layer and a stainless steel mesh backing to provide the ideal conductor for the signal from your electrotherapy unit.
BodyMed Electrodes come with a foam backing and are also equipped with a carbon film and pure silver conductors.
PALS Electrodes are conductive cloth neurostimulation electrodes designed to offer outstanding flexibility and conform to even the most highly contoured body areas.
AxelGaard ValuTrode® Electrodes feature an oversized border for easy removal. They are available with either a white cloth or white foam top. Each lead wire interface is customized to optimize current distribution based on the size and shape of the electrode. The electrodes also feature Axelgaard’s patented MultiStick® gel adhesive that provides long-life and extended…
