Have you ever used an E-stim device? What did you think of it? I’ve heard the E-stim (electro-stimulation) can be dangerous if the device is near the heart or raised above the heart.

Electro-stimulation comes in many forms—it can be as simple as a TENS unit, one of those shocking flyswatters, or as complicated as turn-of-the-century quack medical devices and modern violet wands. I even have an engineer friend that has created shocking machines out of hot glue gun parts. I have seen people use electrical play across the body, I have been kissed by someone who had an electric current running though their body, and have had an electrified Wartenberg wheel dance across my skull, with no problems. I’ve enjoyed shocking people myself!

Should you avoid the chest cavity? Yes, if you have a pacemaker or other electronic device implanted inside you, or if you’re using a taser or a cattle prod. Most violet wands and things in that spectrum are low amperage and affect the surface of your skin. I’ve had a variety of toys dragged across my chest and back, and know dozens of people locally who have experienced the same without issue. The most important thing when you’re playing with electricity is that you know what you’re doing and that you’re playing with someone who knows what they’re doing. You can wind up accidentally harming yourself or your playmate if you have faulty toys or don’t know how to use them right, and it’s generally not worth the risk. If you have someone who knows what they’re doing, or perhaps is giving a demo at a community event, then try it out! TENS units, violet wands and the turn-of-the-century toys can be a lot of fun—and, yes, I know that from experience.

So, I think that e-stim is great fun, and from my understanding the high voltage toys, such as tasers and cattle-prods, can be dangerous on your chest cavity and head, so don’t do that. (It’s more fun getting tased on your ass anyway.) If you’re really curious or concerned, check with your health care practitioner. He or she will be more familiar with the workings of your body, and should be able to advise appropriately. Never forget that your doctors and nurses work for you, and are required to keep your health information private—even the kinky stuff.

Enjoy yourself,
Julian