Avantir Wellness
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Star Former

Key Benefits of StarFormer® Therapy

Comfortable, non-invasive muscle strengthening

Comfortable, non-invasive muscle strengthening

Core, back and pelvic floor strengthening

Core, back and pelvic floor strengthening

Addresses Urine Leakage Issues

Addresses Urine Leakage Issues

Non-invasive and drug-free

Non-invasive and drug-free

No preparation required

No preparation required

Minimum downtime

Minimum downtime

Walk-in/walk-out procedure

Walk-in/walk-out procedure

High success rate and patient satisfaction

High success rate and patient satisfaction

How It Works Graphic

How it Works

StarFormer uses magnetic stimulation technology to target muscle tissues selectively. Magnetic pulses penetrate the muscle layers and prompt them to contract, which helps build muscle strength.

The system offers two therapy options:

  • TightWave™

    Strengthening of the core, abdominal and back muscles

  • IntimaWave™

    Strengthening of the pelvic floor muscles to address urine leakage and support bladder control.

Starformer

TightWave™

TightWave™ supports the strengthening of major muscle groups, including:

  • Abdomen and core
  • Back
  • Glutes
  • Hamstrings
  • Arms
  • Shoulders

The session is performed with the patient lying down, fully clothed. One session generally lasts between 20 and 30 minutes, with patients resuming their daily activities immediately after.

In each 30-minute StarFormer® session, the targeted muscles undergo approximately 50,000 contractions.

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IntimaWave™

StarFormer® IntimaWave™therapy can stimulate pelvic floor muscles and back, utilising two applicators to treat all types of male or female urine leakage and bladder control issues. The patient remains fully clothed during the session and sits on a comfortable IntimaWave™ chair.

The magnetic applicators in the chair stimulate muscle contraction in the entire pelvic floor area, increasing the strength and endurance of the pelvic floor. The result is effective and long-term relief of uncontrolled urine flow.

Starformer® Frequently Asked Questions

StarFormer therapy offers a range of indications for use, including:

  • Stimulation of pelvic floor musculature: for the rehabilitation of weak pelvic muscles and the restoration of neuromuscular control, primarily used to address male and female urine leakage, bladder control issues, and other pelvic floor disorders.
  • Muscle strengthening: StarFormer® supports the strengthening and reconditioning of the core, abdominal and back muscles, and the rehabilitation of weakened muscle groups.
2What are the contraindications: Who should avoid Starformer® Therapy?

Starformer® Therapy has specific contraindications that individuals should be aware of before considering the treatment:

General, Absolute Contraindications:

  • Cancer: Starformer® Therapy is not recommended for individuals with an active cancer diagnosis.
  • Active implanted electronic devices: This includes cardiac pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, hearing aids, neurostimulators, or drug delivery systems.
  • Metal implants: Individuals with metal implants should avoid Starformer® Therapy. During treatment, specific areas such as the head and chest, as well as any regions covered by tattoos, should also be avoided.

General, Relative Contraindications:

  • Pregnancy: Starformer® Therapy is not advised during pregnancy.
  • Post Delivery: It is advised to wait for at least 3 months post C-section, to start/resume Starformer® Therapy
  • Epilepsy: Individuals with epilepsy should use caution with Starformer® Therapy.
  • Unhealed muscle trauma: The therapy is not suitable for those with unhealed muscle injuries.
  • Active pulmonary conditions: Individuals with active pulmonary conditions should exercise caution.
  • Endometriosis: Starformer® Therapy may not be suitable for individuals with endometriosis.
  • Open wounds: Individuals with open wounds should avoid the therapy.
  • Cardiovascular disorders: Caution is advised for individuals with cardiovascular disorders.
  • Intrauterine contraceptive device: The therapy should be used with care in cases where intrauterine contraceptive devices are in place

Additional Contraindications for Pelvic Floor Muscle Stimulation:

Absolute:

  • Starformer® Therapy is not recommended for those with abnormalities of urinary tract or pelvic floor defects

Relative:

Use caution in case of:

  • Active vaginal lesions
  • Active urinary tract infections
  • Past or current pelvic irradiation or radiogenic cystitis
3Are there possible side effects associated with Starformer® Therapy?

There are some possible side effects associated with Starformer® Therapy. These side effects can vary and may include:

General Possible Side Effects:

  • Discomfort during and/or after the treatment
  • Mild to moderate pain during and/or after the treatment
  • Muscle fatigue
  • Muscle soreness
  • Erythema (redness of the skin)
  • Paraesthesia (abnormal sensations)
  • Dysesthesia (unpleasant abnormal sensations)
  • Mild to moderate menstrual cycle irregularity
  • Bowel symptoms

Additional Possible Side Effects in Pelvic Floor Muscle Stimulation:

  • Dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse)
  • Mild soreness/discomfort in the chest area, palpitations, and worsening of asthma symptoms are sometimes reported. In such cases, the treatment should be discontinued.

Patients should not undergo any treatment if they exhibit clear signs of side effects from the therapy. Safety and well-being are paramount in Starformer® Therapy.

Please note that this information serves as a general guide, and it is crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before considering Starformer® Therapy, especially if you have specific medical conditions or concerns. Always prioritise your health and well-being when making healthcare decisions.

4Does StarFormer® hurt?

No, StarFormer®  does not cause pain or discomfort. It can be best described as the feeling of muscle contractions or flexing.

5How soon will I see results?

The timeframe for experiencing results can differ from one patient to another, depending on the specific condition being treated. While some individuals may notice improvements as early as their 3rd or 4th session, it’s important to note that the precise expectation will be discussed and tailored to your unique situation during your consultation.

6How do I maintain my results?

We recommend maintaining a healthy lifestyle and discussing yearly maintenance with your consultant.

Related Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is StarFormer therapy?

StarFormer by Fotona is a non-invasive device that uses high-intensity magnetic stimulation to prompt muscles to contract. At Avantir it is used in two ways: TightWave for strengthening the core, abdominal and back muscles, and IntimaWave for strengthening the pelvic floor. You stay fully clothed throughout, and it is offered as part of a wellness and muscle-strengthening routine.

How does StarFormer work, and what does a session feel like?

Magnetic pulses pass comfortably into the muscle and prompt it to contract far more than usual, around 50,000 contractions in a 30-minute session. You may feel a tapping or tingling sensation as the muscles work, rather than anything painful. Sessions are non-invasive with no downtime, so most people return to their day straight afterwards. Your coach sets the intensity to keep it comfortable.

Can StarFormer support bladder leakage and pelvic floor strength?

StarFormer's IntimaWave mode is designed to stimulate and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles that support bladder control. You sit, fully clothed, on a chair that delivers the magnetic stimulation across the pelvic floor. Many women consider it for support with leakage or weakened muscles, often after childbirth or around menopause. Responses vary, so a professional assessment helps match the approach to your situation.

Is StarFormer suitable after childbirth?

Many women look to StarFormer for pelvic floor and core support as part of postpartum recovery, once they have been cleared to start. Because it is non-invasive and you stay clothed, it tends to fit easily around a busy schedule. If you are postnatal, recovering from surgery or have any concerns, it is sensible to check with your doctor first and share your history with your Avantir coach.

How many sessions will I need, and is there downtime?

This varies from person to person and depends on your goals, so there is no fixed number. Sessions are short, around 20 to 30 minutes, with no downtime, and many people build a course over several weeks since muscle strength develops gradually with consistency. Your Avantir coach can outline a suitable plan after an assessment and adjust it based on how you respond.

Is StarFormer safe, and who should avoid it?

StarFormer is non-invasive and you remain fully clothed, so it is comfortable for most people. It is not suitable for everyone: those who are pregnant, or who have a pacemaker, metal or other electronic implants, should not use it, and anyone with a medical condition should check with their doctor first. Always share your health history with your coach beforehand.

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NovoTHOR® and StarFormer® are used as part of wellness programmes at Avantir Wellness. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is delivered in a 1.5 ATA soft-shell wellness setting. Avantir Wellness is a functional medicine wellness centre; sessions are wellness-focused and not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your physician before commencing any therapy programme.