ActiPatch® vs Chiropractic Care for Back and Neck Pain
By Electrome Corporation · Published October 21, 2026
Chiropractic adjustments happen in scheduled visits, and each visit has a cost. ActiPatch® is a drug-free wearable you use at home, at work, and overnight. One device provides up to 720 therapy hours with no appointment.
At home versus by appointment
ActiPatch®
Use it any time, including overnight. One purchase, up to 720 therapy hours.
Chiropractor
Hands-on treatment in scheduled, paid visits.
What does a chiropractor do?
Chiropractors use spinal manipulation and other hands-on techniques, often over a series of visits. Many people use chiropractic care for back and neck pain. It needs travel, scheduling, and a payment for each visit.
Where does ActiPatch® come out ahead?
Therapy whenever you need it, without an appointment. ActiPatch® can be worn during the hours between visits, including while you sleep.
One purchase covers up to 720 therapy hours, instead of a payment for each visit.
Can you use both?
Yes. You can wear ActiPatch® between chiropractic visits. Tell your chiropractor you are using it, and take it off if they ask during treatment.
What does the research show?
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial in people with knee osteoarthritis (Bagnato and colleagues, Rheumatology, 2016), the study reported a difference in pain outcomes between active and sham devices. Individual results vary.
ActiPatch® is FDA cleared (510(k) K192234) for over-the-counter adjunctive treatment of musculoskeletal pain. It has no drug ingredient, and you wear it for hours at a time right over the sore area.
Who should not use ActiPatch®?
Do not use if you have a cardiac pacemaker, implanted defibrillator, or other active implanted metallic or electronic device.
Do not use if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
Not for use by or on children under 17.
Do not use for sudden or unexplained pain, or if the cause of the pain is unknown. Not for pain deep in the body such as the chest or stomach, and not for cancer-related pain.
The device is not sterile. Do not place it in direct contact with open wounds.
Check in with your doctor if the pain changes, gets worse, or isn't easing after a few weeks. If you are under a doctor's care, consult your doctor before use.
Read the supplied package insert before use.
Frequently asked questions
Is ActiPatch® an alternative to a chiropractor?
ActiPatch® is a drug-free wearable you use at home for musculoskeletal pain. It does not adjust the spine, and you can use it alongside chiropractic care.
Can I use ActiPatch® for back pain at home?
Yes. ActiPatch® is available over the counter for adjunctive treatment of musculoskeletal pain, including the back. Ask a clinician about back pain that is severe, sudden, or unexplained.
Primary sources
Educational information only. ActiPatch® is FDA 510(k) cleared (K192234) for over-the-counter (OTC) adjunctive treatment of musculoskeletal pain. Read the package instructions and consult a clinician about persistent or worsening pain.