Everything you Need to Know About Tens Therapy Pain Relief

The electricity had magical effects, to say the least. It changed the world and our lives forever. Electricity has been used, since its inception, in the field of human treatment. TENS therapy is one of those treatment methods that makes brilliant use of it. This is the Electrotherapy most popular in the field of physical therapy.

TENS therapy uses the principle of electrical stimulation and represents an effective treatment for pain and acute and chronic physical discomfort .

Here’s everything you need to know about TENS.

1 What is TENS? How does it work?

TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation ( Stimulation Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve ), a treatment for physical pain. The aim is to transmit electrical current through the nerves that send pain signals to the brain, and then to disrupt the pain signals to reduce pain. TENS can also help the body produce more endorphin – a natural pain reliever – and change the way the brain responds to pain signals.

It is done with a small, low-voltage, battery-powered machine to provide electrical current that travels along nerve fibers in the affected area of ​​the body, interrupting pain signals that travel along the same nerves and thereby relieving pain.

The machines are called TENS units (generally the size of a pocket radio) and usually have two electrodes that attach to the skin and can be configured to different settings to adjust the intensity and flow of current as needed

2 What is it for?

TENS is used to treat pain and discomfort caused by different types of diseases and a wide range of conditions including arthritis , back pain, neck pain, muscle spasms, knee pain, menstrual pain, etc. It is also used as a method of reducing acute pain caused by sports injuries

3 How is it used?

TENS units are small and lightweight, designed for portability and use on the go. They can be attached to the belt, kept in a pocket or in the hand and can be used safely while working.

During use, the electrodes are attached to the skin in the painful area and the electric current is activated with the correct setting. It is important to position the electrodes correctly for maximum benefit from TENS . Make sure the machine is turned off before placing the electrodes on the skin.

Correctly adjusting settings for individual conditions is critical to reaping the maximum benefit from TENS.

There different types and brands of TENS machines, for which it is possible to obtain advice in order to choose the one that best suits your needs

4 How safe is it? Does it have any side effects?

TENS units cannot be dangerous if fully functional. TENS can be used as many times as desired, and unlike prescription drugs, there is no risk of overdose.

Doctors generally believe it is safer for pain relief than pain relievers which can have side effects. Skin burns and irritation are rarely reported. For most people, TENS has no side effects.

5 Who can’t use it?

It is best not to opt for TENS if the cause of the pain is unknown. Always consult your doctor first. TENS is not recommended for pregnant women, those who have metallic or electrical implants such as pacemakers, those with skin diseases, people with epilepsy and heart problems.

6 What precautions must be taken when using a TENS unit?

It is an “electric machine” and, by its nature, “caution” is required.

The electrodes should not be placed on injured or damaged skin, as electrical current may cause further damage. Do not place the electrodes near the eyes. Also, the electrodes should not be placed on the front or side of the neck or in the mouth. The machine should be kept as far away from water as possible. Do not use it in the bath or shower.

What are the basic rules for TENS?

Mastering the Basic Rules of TENS for Effective Pain Relief

TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a widely used therapy for managing pain. To make the most of your TENS sessions, keep these fundamental rules in mind:

1. Consult a professional: Before starting TENS therapy, consult with a healthcare provider who can guide you in using the device properly and tailor the settings to your specific needs.
2. Proper electrode placement: Correct electrode placement is crucial. Position the electrodes near the source of pain or along the nerve pathways associated with your condition.
3. Adjust intensity levels: Begin with a low intensity and gradually increase it to a comfortable level. The sensation should be strong but not painful.
4. Follow recommended session duration: TENS sessions typically range from 15 to 60 minutes. Adhere to the recommended duration for your specific condition to ensure safe and effective treatment.
5. Be consistent: Consistency is key for optimal results. Regularly incorporate TENS therapy into your pain management routine to experience its full benefits.

By adhering to these basic rules, you can harness the power of TENS to effectively alleviate pain and enhance your overall well-being.

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