Questions About Firefly | Firefly Recovery Help Center

When and how long should I wear the Firefly devices?

Recommended usage will optimize recovery so you can train harder and perform better. Firefly Recovery is used for warm up (30-60 minutes) post workout recovery (1-4 hours) and travel (duration of travel).

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Should I use Firefly during training or working out?

No, it is not recommended to use Firefly during training or a workout. However, as Firefly is a portable device, it can be used when walking, stretching or on-the-go.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Why is the Knee Strap important?

Knee Straps keep Firefly devices comfortably and securely in place, especially when you are in motion. As the gel-based backing on the devices may become less adhesive after multiple uses, the knee strap will help to ensure proper stimulation from the device.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

How long does the Firefly work?

When used as recommended, the device has an estimated battery life of 30 hours. The number of uses will depend upon the length of each recovery session.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Is the Firefly device painful to use?

The Firefly device should not be painful. You will feel muscles in the lower leg contract every second, which causes your foot to twitch (Firefly flutter). It may take a few moments to adjust to the sensation, but the movement is critical to increasing blood flow and recovery. if the sensation is too strong, decrease the level.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

How do I turn the Firefly on and off?

Press and hold down the (+) button for 1-second to turn the device ON. Press and hold down the (-) button for 3-seconds to turn OFF your device.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Can I wear Firefly during travel?

We suggest using the Firefly for the duration of travel to promote blood flow and avoid tired legs. The Firefly device can safely be worn or carried through TSA security.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Can Firefly be used on other parts of the body?

The device is specifically meant to be applied on the peroneal nerve to increase systemic blood flow. We have not researched our technology on other nerves in the body.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

How does Firefly differ from muscle stim?

The Firefly is a modified NMES that stimulates a nerve vs. a muscle, it is not a muscle stim or TENS unit. Stimulating the peroneal nerve causes muscles to contract and to increase blood flow. Stimulating a muscle (with traditional NMES) for extended periods of time can cause muscle fatigue. The Firefly safely avoids muscle fatigue that can be caused by TENS. Click here for a modality comparison.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Is Firefly similar to other recovery technologies?

The Firefly looks like a muscle stim but is similar to pneumatic compression. Both modalities increase blood flow. The Firefly is unique as it moves 3X more blood, is fully portable, and mobile. This allows for on-the-go recovery anywhere, anytime. Click here for a modality comparison.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Can I sleep with the Firefly device on?

It is safe to sleep with the devices on. However, quality sleep is essential for optimal recovery; if the devices are disruptive to your sleep, lower the settings or turn them off.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Can I wear the Firefly device in the shower, ice bath or pool?

No. The Firefly device is not designed to be used in water as it is not waterproof.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

How do I find the correct level of stimulation?

At the correct level, you should see an outward movement of the foot (the Firefly "flutter"). If you only see muscle twitches in the lower leg but not the foot, increase the level by pressing the (+) button or adjust the device placement. It is optimal to wear the Firefly at the lowest setting that delivers a “flutter”.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Who should not use the Firefly device?

Individuals with pacemakers and recently diagnosed DVT should not use the Firefly. The firefly device is not intended to be used on children [under the age of 12]. See the instructions that accompany the device for a full list of contraindications, warnings and precautions. Please see our technical specifications.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Is the Firefly device reusable/rechargeable?

The Firefly device is reusable during the 30-hour life of the battery and can be used for multiple recovery sessions. Afterwards, the battery can be removed and recycled like any household battery but cannot be replaced. The Firefly device is not rechargeable at this time. We are looking at ways to extend the life of the product and make Firefly rechargeable.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Does Firefly have clinical studies?

Yes, Firefly has been clinically validated to improve recovery. Please review our clinical studies. and also read testimonials from professional athletes and athletic trainers in our Reviews.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Are technical specifications available?

Please see our technical specifications.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

How should I store or transport the Firefly devices?

It is best to store/transport your Firefly in cool, dry conditions. If possible, avoid leaving in a hot car or other extremely hot or humid location to keep the hydrogel in optimal performance condition.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Why does the firefly lose adhesion after a few uses?

After a few recovery sessions, you may see a loss of adhesion of the Firefly gel. Some of this may due to skin particles or hair attaching to the surface of the gel. It can also be due to the loss of moisture from the gel. You can rehydrate the gel by sprinkling a little water onto the gel or lightly misting the gel with water. Do not add too much water as it could have the opposite effect and damage the gel. It is safe to sprinkle water on the firefly device, but do not submerge it in water.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

What happens if the firefly device is turned on accidentally?

If the device does not detect that it is properly attached to a leg (for example if it is turned on before fitting or becomes detached) it will turn off automatically after 4 minutes.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Can the firefly device turn on by itself?

To turn on the firefly device requires the button to be pressed for around ½ second and released. This makes it unlikely that it can be turned on accidentally.

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Can Firefly be used by children?

The firefly device is not intended to be used on children [under the age of 12].

Last updated on Aug 29, 2024

Does the Firefly adhesive contain colophony, rosin, or any resin-based ingredients?

No, there are no resin-based ingredients (including colophony or rosin) in the adhesive.

Last updated on Dec 23, 2024

Will Firefly work on bent and straight legs?

Many Firefly users find it easier to apply the Firefly to a bent leg as it is easier to locate the fibular head. You need to see a slight foot "flutter" for Firefly to work fully. The setting might need to be adjusted when you bend or straighten your leg. Increase or decrease the setting as needed when changing positions.

Last updated on Mar 21, 2025

Can I wear compression socks while using Firefly?

Yes, you can wear compression socks with Firefly, but research suggests it may not provide extra recovery benefits. A study (Ferguson et al., European Journal of Applied Physiology, 2014) found that neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), like Firefly, significantly reduces muscle soreness—more effectively than compression socks alone. However, combining the two didn’t show any added benefit.

Last updated on Mar 21, 2025