What Is Bioelectric Pain Relief? Pulsed Shortwave Therapy Explained
By Electrome Corporation · Published October 5, 2026
FDA 510(k) K192234 indication: "adjunctive treatment of musculoskeletal pain". ActiPatch is an FDA-cleared, over-the-counter bioelectric wearable using Pulsed Shortwave Therapy (PSWT). It contains no active drug ingredient and is used alongside other care.
Shop ActiPatchWhat is bioelectric therapy?
In this guide, bioelectric pain relief describes ActiPatch's use of pulsed shortwave energy rather than an active drug ingredient. Bioelectric names the device type and does not extend its cleared uses.
ActiPatch uses pulsed shortwave therapy (PSWT). It emits a 27.12 MHz radiofrequency carrier in pulses rather than sending a current through two electrode pads. The field is nonthermal and sub-sensory at its designed output: you should not expect the buzzing familiar from many TENS systems. A lack of sensation does not, by itself, establish that pain relief has or has not occurred.
How is it different from TENS?
TENS means transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. A typical TENS setup places adhesive electrode pads on the skin and sends a controlled electrical current between them. The user often adjusts intensity and may notice a tingling sensation.
ActiPatch has no electrode pads or lead wires. Considering it as a TENS alternative does not mean the devices are equivalent or that one is superior. Read the existing comparison guide and follow the instructions for each device.
What does broader bioelectric research tell us?
Electrome's bioelectric medicine primer provides background on biological signals and research questions. That background is not proof of ActiPatch efficacy. Device-specific clinical evidence and cleared indications remain separate from broader research.
ActiPatch does not replace opioids or prescribed medication. If you are under a doctor's care, consult your doctor before use. Never change medication without a clinician.
Who should not use it?
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.
If pain does not improve after 7 days of use, stop and consult a doctor. If you are under a doctor's care, consult your doctor before use.
Read the supplied package insert before use.
Frequently asked questions
What is bioelectric therapy?
For ActiPatch, this describes a device delivering PSWT for adjunctive treatment of musculoskeletal pain. The broader term does not expand the device's FDA-cleared use.
Is it the same as TENS?
No. TENS sends current through skin-contact electrodes. ActiPatch uses a pulsed 27.12 MHz radiofrequency carrier without electrode pads or lead wires.
Is PSWT the same as PEMF?
PSWT is the specific name used here for ActiPatch's pulsed shortwave therapy at 27.12 MHz. Do not transfer claims or evidence from another electromagnetic device to ActiPatch.
Will I feel it?
ActiPatch is designed to operate without perceptible heat or tingling. A lack of sensation does not establish whether pain relief has occurred. Check the operating indicator as described in the package insert.
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.