By now the back pain suffering population is fully aware of apps that can help with their pains. Smartphones, like all forms of new technology, have morphed into a way to make everyday life easier. From being instantly accessible to others (whether or not we want to be), to being able to look up any fact from no matter where our activities may take us, it’s safe to say smartphones have changed the way we live. Also coming at no surprise is the fact that this tech is constantly changing. New additions to software are becoming available each and every day, even furthering the way we’re able to approach the use of the smartphone.

Aside from apps – there are those that keep track of symptoms, those that offer better ways to exercise (with pain fighting movements in mind), and more – there’s even more types of electronic support. Now, there are even ways your smartphone can directly reduce your pain. By determining what hurts the most, and when.

Developed by Philips, these small devices can be placed directly on the patient, then linked to a smartphone or tablet. The pads work by tracking vitals, then providing electric nerve pulses that are designed to help reduce pain. By essentially shocking the nerves, professionals say muscles are trained into relaxing or finding a less painful routine. Though larger or stand-alone versions have been used for years, this marks the first development to be paired directly with a mobile device. Not to mention ones that users can implement while on the go.

To date, two versions of the nerve pads exist. One dual set of smaller pads, which allows the user to place on separate parts of the body. For instance, both shoulder blades, an upper and lower portion of the back, thigh and calf, and so on. The second version is a single, larger pad mainly designed for the back. Its contour shape is ideal for the lower back, but can also be used for mid and upper sections to provide the same pain relief options. [Engadget]

Will Pulse Therapy Work?

If you’re considering this tactic, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor about the possible outcomes from using electronic nerve sessions. Many can benefit from these types of treatments, however, it’s important to make sure your body can handle it, and that you won’t be interfering with any other doctor-approved treatments.

Once approval has been met, there are a few outcomes that can be found. The shocks could greatly reduce your pain levels, or they could provide temporary relief (at an interval that’s likely to be different each and every time you use it, especially when physical routines change from day to day). Another possible outcome is that the pads will offer little to no pain reduction. However, it’s also safe to say that they won’t make it worse. (Or if they do, there might be nerve damage that needs to be checked out by a professional.) Therefore, if you’re on the fence about testing out this new tech, you can take to heart that it can’t increase the effects of your daily pains. Unfortunately, the only way to find out if they’ll work for each individual is to test them out.

Before making a purchase, see if your doctor or local pharmacy offers trial versions in their store. Or, talk to the supply company about potential tests so you’re sure to gain from your tech purchase.

With this up and coming smartphone tech, back pain can take a back seat to electronics. Talk to your medical professional today to learn more.