The ShotBlocker

The ShotBlocker

I’m a trypanophobic, meaning I am afraid of needles. My phobia has caused me to put off or completely avoid injections out of fear. However, recently I found something that helps immensely, the ShotBlocker, by Bionix.

From Bionix’s website,

’Bionix ShotBlocker® is an innovative device that instantly alleviates the pain and anxiety of needle injections. ShotBlocker® works through a novel application of the gate control theory of pain management. It is a plastic, C-shaped device with small bumps on its back. When pressed firmly against the skin at the injection site, ShotBlocker® saturates the sensory nerves and distracts the patient from pain signals caused by the needle poke. The device is both simple and easy to use, bringing comfort to users of all ages.’

The bumps aren’t sharp. Here’s a picture of my hand after I pressed the ShotBlocker to it:

Here’s a picture of the instructions that come with it:

My doctor had no problems administering the shot, and I felt no pain. I don’t mean that as in ‘just a small sting’, I mean that the needle felt just like one of the plastic nubs. Absolutely no pain at all. I was stunned.

Of course, it doesn’t get rid of the anxiety/dizziness/nausea that I get during injections. But with time, I think I’ll be able to train myself out of that.

You can buy them on Bionix’s website for 5.99 USD, I think I got mine from Amazon for a few cents less. They’re reusable and relatively inexpensive. I’d recommend them to anyone.