I didn't get my own, I got one from my mom, and actually my sister and I fight over it, so my mom called her dr and said it broke and a new one is on the way. I think it really helps, (I have the high volt pulsed stim) I try to use it on really bad days, so that I don't depend on it. I think it helps a ton, as for your insurance, see if it's covered under durable medical equipment, then you dr neeRAB to write you a script. most insurance's will cover DME if its medically necessary. good luck