FAQ

How does Utopia Gear TENS/EMS units work?

Utopia Gear portable tens units send different patterns of electronic pulses to your muscles through the electrode pads. The pulses make the muscle contract and relax repeatedly. The contracting and relaxing of your muscles produces pain relief that is used at physical therapy establishments and chiropractic businesses worldwide. This low frequency therapy can really help to fight pain and obtain some relief.

What kind of technology does Utopia Gear use?

These portable TENS units utilize a non-invasive nerve stimulation that is intended to reduce pain acutely and chronically. TENS is an acronym for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation and uses electric current to stimulate the nerves for therapeutic purposes.  Electrical stimulation with a TENS unit can block a pain signal to the brain and temporarily relieve pain.  It also increases the body's production of endoprhins, which is a naturally released painkiller.  EMS is an acronym for electrical muscle stimulation and are proven for treating muscluar injuries.  Utopia Gear combines both technologies into one easy to use, safe, and portable device.  

Why am I unable to feel anything or unable to increase the intensity?

In order for the unit to work, BOTH pads must be connected directly to the skin at all times.  This will complete the circuit and without connecting both pads you will not be able to feel the electronic pulse at all.  On the Utopia Pro Mini and the Utopia Gear Pro 3.0, there is a safety feature built into the tens unit.  Once the electrode pads detach from the skin, the intensity will drop to zero and you will not be able to feel anything.  In order to make sure that both pads are affixed to the skin properly, it is recommended to clean the pads often. We find that using a wet wipe, an alcohol prep pad, or simply wiping them down with a clean cloth soaked in warm soapy water.  This should revive the stickiness and you should be able to increase the intensity and start enjoying the unit again! 

Where can I apply the electrode pads?

You can use the Utopia Gear electrode pads on almost every muscle and joint area on your body. Do not apply the tens unit pads near the heart, on the head, above the neck, in the pubic region, over scarred areas, on the throat, or in the mouth. As a general rule of thumb if you have a muscle or joint that is hurting, put the electrode pads on or around the area always making sure both pads are on muscles or joints and directly on the skin.  

How do I take proper care of the electrode pads?

With frequent usage, the two pair of pads included in the package should last on average 6 months. Always make sure to apply a few drops of water on the pads before and after usage. Cover the pads with their protective films after usage and put them back in their zip lock bags or store on the provided tray so they do not dry out. Periodically cleaning the pads with a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle and wiping clean with a wet rag helps prolong the pads. A wet wipe also works well and is actually the preferred method of cleaning. This also helps remove any oil and dirt and brings the stickiness back.

Why do I feel stinging sensations from the pads sometimes?

The pads must be moist and sticky to work. Pads that are not moist enough will produce a weak and stinging sensation. Before each use dip your finger into some clear water and rub the water onto the electrode pads. Apply the pads immediately to your skin when they are still wet. Make sure that the pads are making full and firm contact with the skin. Worn out pads may also cause a stinging sensation. Replace the tens unit pads as needed. Even when you feel stinging sensations, Utopia Gear is safe to operate. You just need to make sure that the pads are moist.

I have a pacemaker, is Utopia Gear safe for me to use?

Those with a pace maker should not use any Utopia Gear models.

I am a pregnant woman. Is Utopia Gear safe for me to use?

Pregnant women should not use Utopia Gear tens units.

How long can I use Utopia Gear?

You can use it as often as you like. You can use it from 20 to 60 minutes each time, 2 to 3 times a day if needed. A typical session is usually 10-30 minutes. There are NO chemicals or drugs involved and the only side effects from these portable tens units are one may be a little sore the next day if used for too long. This is typically why in physical therapy a session will be anywhere from 10-30 minutes. If you feel a little sore the next day just simply decrease the amount of time during the next session.

Do I need to ask my doctor first about using this device?

Utopia Gear nerve stimulators are designed for your personal use and are not intended to replace any health professional care. We recommend that you consult with your doctor first if in doubt.

What is Utopia Gear’s return policy?

Utopia Gear offers a two year exchange policy on defective merchandise. If for any reason your unit malfunctions within two years of purchase you may return it to us for examination as per our warranty program. Utopia Gear does not offer refunds on purchased merchandise.

Warnings:

The long term effects of chronic electrical stimulation are unknown.
Utopia Gear TENS units should not be applied to the carotid sinus nerves, particularly in patients with a known sensitivity to the carotid sinus reflex.
Utopia Gear devices should not be applied over the neck or mouth. Severe spasm of the laryngeal muscle may occur and the constructions may be strong enough to close the airway or cause difficulty in breathing.
Utopia Gear mini stimulators should not be applied onto the chest near the heart in that the introduction of electrical current into the heart may cause cardiac arrhythmias.
Utopia Gear TENS machines should not be applied trans-cerebrally.
Utopia Gear TENS stimulators should not be applied over swollen, infected or inflamed areas or skin eruptions, e.g., phlebitis, thrombophlebitis, varicose veins, ETC.
Utopia Gear electrotherapy units should not be applied over, or in proximity to cancerous lesions.
Utopia Gear portable TENS units should not be used on pregnant women.
Utopia Gear devices should not be used on people with a pacemaker or with any heart condition.