Life Gets Back to Normal for Giles with his RS-4i® Plus
For Giles, everyday activities like mowing the lawn, taking out the trash and helping with the dishes had become major events due to severe back pain.
“Anything from everyday chores to walking . . . I’d have to mentally prepare myself. And then I could complete it, but it was very, very difficult.”
It Wasn’t Always Like This
“Pre-pain, I could do anything.”
Giles served in the US Army for 32 years before retiring, and he spent much of his career in tactical air traffic control. He also wrestled competitively, both nationally and internationally, for a long time. He enjoyed running, lifting weights and an all-around active lifestyle. But eventually he was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and an inoperable nerve issue in his back.
“I’ve always had back pain, but I’ve never really acknowledged it,” he says. “When I re-deployed, I was getting Toradol® shots every day.”
He realized that daily shots were not an ideal long-term solution.
Therapy with the RS-4i Plus Gets Life Back to Normal
He sought treatment at his local VA, where he was given three different TENS machines – none of which worked for his pain. Finally, his provider prescribed an RS-4i Plus for him.
“My pain before the RS-4i was between a 7 and a 10 . . . now it’s a zero to a 2,” he says, referring to the DVPRS pain scale that rates pain from a low of 0 to a high of 10.
“It’s my magic pill for pain relief,” he says. “It literally opens my world to normalcy.”
Low Back Garment Adds Simplicity to Treatments
Giles was also prescribed an RS-LBG Low Back garment with his RS-4i Plus, which has made it easier for him to take back treatments.
“Some of the things that I can do now, that I couldn’t do before, is everything.”
The Low Back garment is an adjustable, belt-like article that allows electrotherapy patients to position stimulator pads on the lower back and hips without help. These garments are also designed with comfort in mind. Constructed of light, flexible fabric, they adjust to any sitting position, and can even be worn under clothing during treatment.
Ready to Get Your Life Back to Normal?
Veterans receiving VA healthcare who are interested in getting their own RS-4i Plus should speak to their healthcare provider at the VA.
For non-Veterans interested in ordering a device, we offer a guide to aid in the discussion with your healthcare provider. Complete this form to view, download and print the guide.
Related Resources
Blog: Break the Cycle of Back Pain without Surgery
Blog: How to Compare TENS Units by Price
This blog provides general information and discussion about medicine, health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other healthcare professional.