Chronic Pain Support Group
Physicians and professionalsdefine pain as chronic if it lasts longer than three to six months and is persistent. It's distinct from acute pain that is a direct result of injury or trauma. This support group is dedicated to those suffering from chronic pain. Discuss treatments that have worked for you, find advice for your specific experience, and find support. You're not...
We both have chronic pain, but for totally different reasons; mine from DDD, and my wife from CIDP and other issues. My wife just uses her on a PRN basis and not very often at that, I use mine maybe on average 5 days a week. Even though I use mine often and now for multiple years, I still cannot say for sure that it helps. I basically use it hoping that it may help along with other methods of pain relief (a little bit here, a little bit there, and hope it all adds up to a better day).
There are several things to understand about the Quell device.
1, It is NOT another TENS device like you see at the drugstore or even Rx TENS devices, it works very differently. Its placement is only directly below either knee, or secondly, just above the knee. The placement has nothing to do with actual location of the pain. The location is suppose to allow easier access to specific nerves that hit receptors in the brain, thereby blocking pain. I suggest that anyone considering buying a Quell check their website carefully including the section for doctors that includes considerable information on how a Quell works and why it is very different than a TENS.
2. It is the only TENS like device that is FDA approved for 24x7 use. So it may help those with pain at night, My wife and I do not, so we have never used it at night.
3. One thing that Quell is different from TENS devices is power; it can really give you a shock if not calibrated carefully (but, it is easy to calibrate and you are very unlikely to get a big shock, although if you do it is harmless), It has a maximum output of 100 volts, which is several times any standard TENS, OTC or prescription. (It does automatically reduce its output if you use it white in bed and keeps other records of sleep activity also).
4. The Quell is costly to buy, and the replaceable electrodes are also expensive. One electrode will last 10-14 days depending on usage and care especially when removing it.
5. When the Quell is properly mounted near one of your knees, you will feel a constant electrical sensation. The strength of this sensation is can be increased, or decreased, either manually (pushing the only switch on the device), or much more easily by using the Android or IOS APP that is free in their respective APP stores. The APP is very helpful in both controlling and monitoring the Quell's activities.
As noted even though we both use it, I cannot tell you one way or the other if it will help a specific person. They have done research that shows that it is effective for the majority of users. (Studies available on their website.)
They do have a 60 day money back guarantee if it does not work for you. I have talked to customer service a few times about usage questions and their CSRs were very helpful and friendly. I see no reason that they would not backup there guarantee at least based on my limited conversations with them.
That is all that I can think of the moment. Is it worth a try? I think so; no side effects, use 24x7 if needed, may help reduce the use of other pain medications that are dangerous. However, I understand the money issue.
Good luck in whatever you decide. If you have any other questions feel free to ask and I will try to answer.
Just a little info that I hope helps you a little. Stay strong fellow pain sufferers!
I checked the manual and it said that if the red LED was flashing when charging to call Customer Support. I did and to my surprise the CSR said that my model series had known battery issues so she would ship me a replacement immediately. I got the FedEx tracking number the next day; two day shipping.
Great customer service IMO. Maybe another reason to trust their 60 day money back guarantee.