Pain Relief Electric Membrane (PREM) is a high technology membrane electron reservoir fabricated from a non-woven, nonallergenic, high electron density polymer. When placed in contact with the skin, the membrane releases the stored electrons in the form of micro-current impulses with strength of 10 to 20 micro-amperes (< .0025% of the electrical current required to light a 100 Watt bulb). This extremely small electrical flow provides a micro-current electrical stimulation. This stimulation closely approximates the naturally occurring bio-electric current in the body that stimulates cellular physiology and growth. The closed circuit, created by PREM's contact with the skin, stimulates adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production in the mitochondria of the cell, which increases protein synthesis and calcium intake into the injured tissue.
The membrane (3.5" × 6.75") is supplied with an adhesive dressing to secure it to the skin over the painful area. Once PREM is applied, it will provide a continuous stimulation of randomly modulated micro-current pulses for 48 hours. It is replaced as needed until pain is eliminated. For most cases, the pain will subside or disappear within 6 to 12 hours. The therapeutic carryover effect can last from several days to several weeks. The only sensation experienced by the patient is warmth because the non-allergenic polymer pad is also a thermal insulation material. Contraindications to its use are open wounds, pregnancy, cancer, or insertion of a pacemaker. The membrane has provided pain relief to cancer patients who are terminal.
In testimonials supplied by the manufacturer, Helio Products, users reported pain relief and quicker recovery times for musculoskeletal injuries often with only one application. Although scientific studies are unavailable, I have personally used PREM for relief of arm, shoulder, and back pain from overuse. With over 25 adults, I have used the membrane for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., in a 67 year old man initially diagnosed with irritation of the rotator cuff and a 60 year old woman with severely strained lower back muscles) and for neuropathic pain (e.g., in a 73 year-old woman with paresthesias in the foot from failed back syndrome and in a 74 year-old man with heel pain from diabetic neuropathy). In each case, except one of a woman with a diagnosed "frozen shoulder" for several months, the patients had significant to complete pain relief with an average of two membranes; the woman with failed back syndrome required five applications.
For more information and a free sample, call 1-888-PAINTEM (1-888-724-6836). Depending on the quantity, the membrane with dressing costs about $2.50. The treatment is FDA approved and is covered by most insurance companies when submitted with the appropriate C.P.T. codes.
March 15, 2002
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