We’re constantly being bombarded with all kinds of products that are supposed to have a wide array of curative benefits, make life easier and/or save money. Thought it might be useful, and fun, to have a regular feature-every six weeks or so-about what appears in social media. What works, what doesn’t and what’s a full on scam. I’ll do about five products at a time. It'll be interesting to see the latest health crazes among the Olympians at the end of July.
At the end of the post are links to sites that provide more information about health and product scams.
Neuro Tech to Elminiate Varicose Veins. Putting feet on a Electric Muscle Stimulator (EMS) foot massager pad is supposed to eliminate varicose veins, according to Facebook ads. If you go to the Neuro Tech website, they include a host of conditions-plantar fasciitis; neuropathy; foot pain; cramps; swelling etc. that the pad is supposed to improve or even cure. It also states that the devise is “Clinically Proven [for] Long Lasting foot pain relief.” It may provide some temporarily relief but it’s not the cure showcased on social media.
I checked Amazon’s reviews. It had 850 ratings with a 3.3 out of 5. The comment summary was interesting, Customers like the relaxing and therapeutic aspects of the massager. They mention it feels good on the feet and helps to make feet feel better. Customers are also happy with its compact size. However, some customers have reported that it doesn't work at all, and is disappointing with the value and build quality. Opinions differ on the intensity level and ease of use.
The only research I found on the benefits of a foot massage device was for the use of MMFO7 foot massage and heat therapy for restless leg syndrome (RLS). That did appear to offer benefit though the clinical trial was small. Bottom line is that Neuro Tech is not going to provide a cure for the conditions they listed, though it may offer some immediate relief.
Over the Counter Hearing Devices: Once hearing aids became available “over the counter” the media has been inundated with ads, probably because hearing loss affects approximately 60.7 million Americans with that number expected to increase. These ads all promote the same thing-“Worked great right out of the box. I can hear again.” Consumer Reports’ What to Know About Jabra, Lexie, Sony, and Other Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Brands Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids is an excellent over view of what you can expect from these products. Intended for people with mild or moderate hearing loss—are easier to buy and often more affordable than traditional hearing aids, but they often don’t come with as much support from audiologists or other hearing professionals. This help in customizing and troubleshooting can play a critical part in how happy you are with your hearing aid. But before you buy a pair, it’s wise to see what type of support brands offer, as well as their return policies, which could vary depending on the retailer. If you have significant hearing loss, these will not be of much help.
All Detergent: “For a clean that’s gentle on skin, try all® free clear laundry detergent. It's 100% free of dyes and perfumes. Your laundry routine just got better!” According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG) This product is not certified as a green cleaner. You can learn more about the product at the EWG site. They rate laundry detergent from best to worst online.
Low Cost Forever Stamps: These regular appear as ads in all sorts of places-a roll of 100 Forever Stamps for $14. Definitely a scam. Read the United States Postal Inspection Service’s “Counterfeit Stamps.” https://www.uspis.gov/news/scam-article/counterfeit-stamps
TikTok Health Products: I’ve been enjoying Dr. Mike’s video on “products you should never buy.” It’s a good laugh and a good reminder that TikTok and Facebook are not good sources for health recommendations.
If it sounds too good to be true, it is. Check with your medical provider about products that may or may not help your chronic condition.
• How to Avoid Online Shopping Scams
• Scams-Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice
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