Alpha-Stim
Has anyone tried the Alpha-Stim machine? It is a little like tens but it works with acupunctures meridians system.
Any feedback would be appreciated.
Thanks
Cindy
Hi Cindy-Boily,
Are you talking about this device, the Cerena Transcranial Magenetic Stimulator (TMS)? We have information on it in this link: https://migraine.com/blog/fda-approves-first-device-to-relieve-migraine-pain/.
Nancy
Hi Nancy,
Similar except concept. This one claims to use the meridian acupuncture points and you can rent the machine and do it to yourself with very little training. It also helps with depression and anxiety. I am thinking of giving it a try.
http://www.alpha-stim.com/alpha-stim-results/
Thanks
Cindy
Hi Cindy,
I wish I could take a photo of me with mine on at night, lol. Yes, I use it. I am still trialing it and hope to write about it eventually somewhere.
Alpha-stim is not a TENS. The wave lengths are different and this is a vital importance when comparing things that may look similar. The ear clips put your brain into an alpha wave, which is the wave you are in during sleep. There is a timer and a way to adjust the intensity. I use it to help with sleep and it's wonderful. I got it to see if it might help with Migraine or other serious chronic pain problems I have. So far no luck there, but I'm not using the probes yet. We started slowly. I'll likely talk to my rep soon and inquire about the probes.
I did have a problem starting it. Migraine brains are very sensitive. Mine was too sensitive for the level we started at and I ended up with 24/7 aura that lasted several weeks. I haven't actually driven since then, for other reasons too. Alpha Stim, IMHO is like a Migraine preventive - start low and go slow. Don't get in a rush.
The feeling is much like the feeling when they give me a hefty shot of a narcotic in the ER. It pulses and tingles my ears, but my brain is - - I don't know how to explain it. Almost like a high. Slightly dizzy, and you can get nauseated if you crank it up too high. I could definitely see it being helpful for anxiety. If something happens, my brain can kick back into normal gear, but again, I use it at night for sleep and that is really my goal at this point. Those with sleep disturbance or triggers might want to consider it. It is FDA approved. Again, it is NOT TENS. There is actually quite a bit of science behind it, and veterans are walking out of the hospital with them in place of meds.
As for Migraine, the relief isn't from the probes, it's from the clips causing the change in brain waves which they hope can be soothing, even healing to a degree - if you get relief. There are no promises. The probes direct the waves through joints, etc. I really want to try it for my lupus and spinal disease.
DO NOT EVER USE A TENS UNIT IN PLACE OF AN ALPHA STIM. A TENS SHOULD NEVER BE USED ON THE HEAD OR FRONT OF THE NECK. A TENS UNIT IS DIFFERENT THAN ALPHA STIM
Hi Cindy,
I just recently started using the Alpha-Stim along with Neurofeedback. I have only been using it two weeks, but swear I see a difference already.
I have suffered from Migraines since childhood but only the 5 years have they become debilitating. I felt like I tried everything, every medication combination, providers in every field of study. Even drove 4 hours to Duke Medical clinic in NC. I have tried acupuncture, dry needling (which did help but hurt like the dickens), chiropractic, meditation. I have been on maintenance drugs, have rescue triptans, and heaps of pain meds in my arsenal.
Alpha-Stim/Neurofeeback was my last resort, but my insurance does not cover any of it so I put it off because of cost. Finally I broke down and said, I don't care what it costs, I will try anything for relief from daily headaches. So far I am glad I did. I have not had a flat on my butt migraine for 1 1/2 weeks. I have taken my rescue meds once. I have had some twinges and triggers, but they did not turn in to a migraine. I say GO FOR IT. Give it a try. Good Luck!
Hi hanson6NC,
I'm so happy to hear you are finding relief with this device - thank you so much for sharing this with us.
Not to put a damper on things, but please remember to stay vigilant about triggers. In my opinion, avoiding and managing triggers along with your stim, will probably be extremely helpful for long term results.
Keep us posted, OK?
Nancy
