MedGeneral MicroCeptor II Is Not A FuzzBuster

Even after having done my homework, I can't say I entirely understand what the MicroCeptor II is, except to say that there was at least one model before it. The burled walnut decal, and the controls for "width", "amp", "rate" all made me think that it was some sort of miniature radar detector. Then I found this:

"Pain is the body's warning system. It is a way of letting an individual know that something is wrong. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) ... relieves pain by sending small electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin to underlying nerve fibers. TENS is believed to work by two different mechanisms. First, electrical stimulation of the nerve fibers can block a pain signal from being carried to the brain... Secondly, the body has its own mechanism for suppressing pain. It does this by releasing natural chemicals called endorphins in the brain which act as analgesics. TENS may activate this mechanism."

So now I'm scared to even touch the thing. I found a guy selling the whole setup (in not exactly "new" condition... someone collects this stuff?) which included a conductive gel and some electrodes. So it's a little spooky. The funny thing about the manufacturer's description is the line that the device "is believed to work". So the guys who market this device are out to lunch on whether it actually does something, eh? Pain management techniques are important, but is this devce a little on the snake oil side? I understand this sort of therapy in a doctor's office, but a little portable electric shocker?

I wonder who'd want this device today? Perhaps a smart hacker wanting to rig up the finest joy buzzer ever...

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