Can electrical stimulation be used on patients with pacemakers?

Electrical stimulation is contraindicated for patients with pacemakers due to the potential risk of interference with the device's function. Pacemakers are sensitive electronic devices that regulate heart rhythms, and applying electrical stimulation can disrupt their normal operation, potentially leading to serious complications such as arrhythmias or, in extreme cases, cardiac arrest.

Any form of electrical stimulation, including modalities like TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) or NMES (Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation), can generate electrical signals that may adversely affect the pacemaker's circuitry. This risk underscores the importance of avoiding electrical stimulation therapy altogether in such patients, making it essential for healthcare providers to adhere to safety guidelines regarding individuals with implanted cardiac devices.