Allie
Could have been great.
I purchased the Reliefband Sport in February 2023 from the US, as the UK did not offer this model at the time. I selected it for its basic design, durability, and stainless steel connection points, critical for my metal allergy. I suffer from severe nausea and needed the device for a trip in March 2023 involving flights, boating, and rough roads. Initially, it worked well on the highest setting, though it caused some discomfort. Despite developing a rash from the non-stainless steel charging area, I tolerated it due to the relief from nausea. (This is particularly troubling as the company misleadingly marketed the product as having stainless steel components, yet the charging points, which are in direct contact with the skin, are not stainless steel.) After minimal use, I stored the device and reached for it again in May 2024 for another trip. To my dismay, it malfunctioned with weak and intermittent pulses, and even expanded mid-flight, causing significant distress during turbulence. The device failed when I needed it most, despite careful handling and use over about 12 days (the length of my initial trip). When I contacted customer service about the issue, their response was dismissive, citing the one-year warranty without addressing the product's failure or offering a solution. This raises serious concerns about the company's quality standards, durability of their products, and customer service. Had customer service attempted to rectify the situation, I might have dismissed this as a one-off faulty product. Given the high price point of over $200, the device's failure is unacceptable. This experience suggests possible intentional design flaws to ensure failure within the warranty period. The lack of support and resolution from customer service is appalling, leaving me extremely disappointed and questioning the company's integrity and commitment to their customers. I recommend you go elsewhere until they've fixed their many flaws. If anyone knows what recourse I might have to get my money back, I would love to know. *** Updated *** Since my review, I received a comment (visible below) which is not helpful, given that I’ve already explained that the device is faulty and does not work. I have tried everything mentioned, and there is nothing more I can do to make the device work. I am aware of how to use it, tried multiple charging methods (but forgot to mention in the initial review that the charger is also awful and makes it difficult to charge the device as the cable is maybe two inches long, so I always have to set things up around the device to rest on while charging or it will fall off the charging cord)… Additional to the response here, I received an email from reliefband after I mentioned my review to them within the “support” email thread. I was asked for my order info, which I provided. I then received the following reply, which is ridiculous considering they already know it’s been just over a year (outside the warranty window) since I ordered my device. So what was the point of asking for this information? Just wasting my damn time?? This is a crap company. : Thanks again for reaching back out and providing us with your original Order# of 1158057. I was able to gain access to the US system and unfortunately, your order has surpassed eligibility, as at Reliefband, all devices come with a 1 Year Manufactures Warranty for manufacturers defects. We went ahead and pulled up your order 1158057 and see your order was shipped on February 12, 2023. Because the order was shipped over 1 year ago, unfortunately you are no longer eligible and fall within the warranty period.
Response from ReliefbandJul 5, 2024
Hi Allie. We are sorry to hear about the frustration with the Sport model and customer service. Firstly, I’m sorry you’re having issues with the Reliefband Sport. I’ll be happy to provide you with some troubleshooting tips to make sure the device is providing optimal therapy! Reliefband Sport Troubleshooting: The first step is to try charging in a laptop, gaming system, or USB port. These ports should not exceed 5 volts. Secondly, allow the device to charge for at least 45-75 minutes before use. To turn it on, hold the power button for approximately 3 seconds. When powered on, the green lights will flash from left to right, and stop on the current battery level. The device will then enter waiting mode. In waiting mode, blue lights will flash between left and right. To take the device off waiting mode, press the power button to increase the intensity level. The contacts will sense when the device is touching the skin. If the device is removed from the wrist or both electrodes are not touching the skin, it will enter waiting mode after approximately 10 seconds. When the battery is at 33.3% or below, blue and yellow lights will flash to signal a low battery. When the battery is at 16.6% or below, blue and red lights will flash to signal a critically low battery. This will allow approximately 4 hours of use at level 3 or below. When the device is fully charged, all 6 lights will show green. If the device is in waiting mode for more than 60 seconds, it will turn off automatically to save battery power. When at 0% battery, no lights will show on the device. We recommend charging the Reliefband immediately prior to when you’re planning to use it, as this ensures that the therapy is ready to go and keeps the battery healthy for as long as possible. If you must charge the device ahead of time, be sure to turn it off completely when it is not in use. Please take a look at our "How To Use" page for a more detailed explanation. How to use – Reliefband®. Regards, Releifband Customer Service



