This method uses a device called a TENS machine. It is a light, compact, battery-powered, wearable device that stimulates nerves through low-voltage electric currents. The currents flow from the electrodes through the skin to elicit sensory feedback to relieve pain. Moreover, pain management using e-stim devices can help substitute traditional methods like icing and oral medication. Subsequently, electrotherapy is an all-natural and toxic-free method for alleviating pain. iTENS Australia offers the innovative iTENS, a device that combines wearable technology with the effective pain relief of a TENS machine.

When did TENS Therapy Start?

Technological innovations like a TENS machine enable individuals to manage pain conveniently while on the go. However, electrotherapy is not a modern concept. Medical professionals have practised electrical stimulation since 500 B.C. The idea of applying electricity to the body started when early Egyptians discovered that certain fish emit electrical pulses like electric rays and eels. Soon after, Greeks and Romans followed, using the electrical properties of fish to treat pain or various ailments. In the 17th century, this method was replaced by human inventions. The first recorded treatment was conducted by Johann Gottlob Krüger in 1743. Since then, more development and studies have been incorporated into what we know today as a TENS machine.

Electrotherapy serves multiple functions. It can be used to reduce pain symptoms and inflammation, improve muscles, or boost circulation. All electrotherapy devices use electrical currents to stimulate a particular body area. However, they differ in frequencies, waveforms, and effects. Particularly, TENS targets the nerves to minimise pain. Other forms of electrotherapy are:

• Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS)
• Interferential Current (IFC)
• Pulsed electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)
• Galvanic Stimulation (GS)

How Does TENS Therapy Work?

TENS pain management therapy works according to two functioning theories. These theories are:

• The Gate Control Theory of Pain  – this theory states that at a high pulse rate (around 90 to 130 Hz), TENS interferes and blocks pain signals from reaching the brain. Moreover, the theory proposes that there is a sort of gating mechanism located in the central nervous system (specifically the spinal cord). It implies that pain signals are free to pass through and reach the brain when a “gate” is open. On the other hand, these neural gates close when conducting TENS therapy at a high frequency. When the brain receives fewer pain signals, it reduces the overall pain perception.
• Endorphin Production – the second theory states that TENS encourages the body to produce endorphins at a lower pulse rate of around 2 to 5 Hz. Endorphins are the body’s natural pain killers. Additionally, these chemicals have morphine-like or natural pain-relieving properties. Thus, it also provides pain relief by blocking pain signals from reaching the brain. Accordingly, increased endorphin production also improves mood and provides a general feeling of well-being. Hence, medical professionals refer to this natural chemical as the “feel good” or “happy” hormone.

What are the Kinds of Pain?

Pain is a natural occurrence and can happen at any life stage and for various reasons. Moreover, the perception of pain varies from person to person. Individuals experience and react to pain differently, depending on their tolerance. Additionally, pain is often described as an unpleasant sensation due to tissue damage. It is the body’s way of saying something is wrong, and you must act on it to stop it from happening. Furthermore, a person may feel pain throughout the body or in a specific area. Because pain can be localised, TENS treatment is an excellent solution for pain relief. A TENS machine like the iTENS targets the underlying nerves in the affected area to alleviate or reduce the symptoms. Depending on the condition, a person may experience the following types of pain:

• Acute pain – short-term pain is acute. They can last up to three months with or without treatment. Most acute pains are related to injuries or temporary illness. So when the injury heals, or the sickness subsides, the symptoms also disappear. However, it may become chronic pain when it does not heal properly.
• Chronic pain – chronic pain is more extended and lasts longer than six months. It can also be constant or recurring, which causes inconvenience or affects daily activities. Most often, an underlying health condition causes chronic pain.

What Types of Pain Does TENS Electrotherapy Treat?

Pain can be due to nerve or tissue damage. The sensation can be mild to extreme. Moreover, pain can range from dull to aching sensation. Likewise, a person may feel stabbing, burning, sharp or shooting aches. It is important to seek medical diagnosis to deal with pain, especially for severe conditions. A doctor or physiotherapist may recommend TENS therapy as part of pain management. A TENS machine can help reduce acute and chronic pain. Moreover, TENS is beneficial for treating the following:

Pain Symptoms

• Period pain
• Labour pain
• Postoperative pain
• Sports injuries
• Joint pain
• Neck pain
• Shoulder pain
• Back pain
• Headache/ migraine
• Hip pain

Health Conditions

• Endometriosis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Bursitis
• Peripheral artery disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Fibromyalgia
• Plantar fasciitis
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Spinal cord injury
• Tendinitis
• Epicondylitis (tennis elbow)

Using TENS for Pain Management: What is a TENS Machine?

If you are using a TENS therapy device for the first time, you should be ready for the sensations it provides. A TENS machine is a portable device composed of electrode pads to deliver electrical currents. The first TENS devices used to be accessible only through clinics or treatment facilities. Fortunately, anybody can purchase a TENS machine for use at home today. Moreover, a TENS machine has a set of controls to modulate the level of electrical stimulation. A standard TENS device use wires to connect the electrodes to the device. Meanwhile, contemporary devices like the iTENS incorporate wireless technology to power the device.

The iTENS wireless TENS machine from iTENS Australia uses wireless electrodes to maximise efficiency and convenience. iTENS understand the need to manage pain despite being busy or active. Therefore, iTENS utilise wireless electrode pads for the ultimate pain relief. The electrode pads are Bluetooth-capable that can connect to a smartphone. The wireless design of iTENS makes it easy to place the pads on the pain site with minimal effort. Furthermore, the iTENS companion app features pain treatments for various health conditions. The app is compatible with most iOS, Android and Google devices. Lastly, a wireless TENS machine eliminates the hassle of wire entanglement or breakage.

Setting Up a TENS Machine: Understanding TENS Frequencies

It is essential to understand all about the TENS settings before administering self-treatment. All TENS therapy devices utilise small electrical units to stimulate the nerves. Treatment using electrotherapy devices is painless and safe. Moreover, TENS devices enable you to control the level of pain relief through adjustable settings. When the machine is turned on, you will feel a tingling sensation. This is because the electrical pulses pass through the skin to reach the nerves. TENS can activate pain gate controllers in the spinal cord in varying frequencies or stimulate endorphin production. Likewise, you can manipulate TENS machine settings to find the most optimal results. A TENS machine will have the following settings:

• Pulse rate – the frequency of electrical pulses travelling through the skin. The pulse rate is registered in hertz or cycle per second. The higher the frequency, the stronger the stimulation.
• Pulse duration – the elapsed time or width of each electrical pulse.
• Waveforms – refers to the shape seen on an amplitude versus time graph. Amplitude is the strength of TENS sensation, expressed in milliamperes (mA).

Applying different pulse rates, widths, and waveforms can help target specific body areas and address diverse therapy needs. The wireless iTENS enable the customisation of TENS settings to find the most therapeutic effects. For example, you can try different frequencies or intensities to see how your body reacts to the treatment. It is best to start with the lowest settings and gradually increase them as your body accommodates the tingling sensations.

How to Operate a TENS Machine

Setting up a TENS unit is easy and can be done within minutes. Firstly, connect the electrode pads with the device and place them on the pain site. In standard TENS units, you can do this by attaching the wires. Meanwhile, operating a wireless TENS machine is simpler. You may use the iTENS independently or through a smartphone connection. For the first use, pair the device with the smartphone app by turning the Bluetooth on. After the successful pair, you are ready to use the iTENS wireless TENS device. You may begin the therapy by placing the TENS electrode pads near or around the area of pain. Then, switch on the device to set your settings manually or select from the pre-set modes in the app. In using a TENS machine, it is vital to remember the following:

• Correct placement of electrode pads
• Recommended duration of TENS treatment based on your specific condition
• Frequency and intensity level

The Wireless iTENS Device

iTENS is the world’s first wireless TENS device with FDA clearance for pain relief. It merges digital technology and TENS therapy for more efficient pain management. Moreover, the iTENS smartphone app features built-in programs for easy access to pain treatments. The program’s settings are pre-set, so you do not have to adjust them with each use. It includes the pulse rate and duration. So even if you are new to TENS, you can safely administer the therapy. From the app, scroll the menu options based on body areas of health ailments. After selecting a specific program, the device will immediately begin the treatment.

The pre-set treatments of the iTENS app cover the common pain points in the body. It has ready parameters for joints (wrists, elbows, shoulders, knees, ankles) and broad areas like the upper/mid back, lower back, thighs, hands and feet. You may also select the treatment option based on health conditions like sciatica, arthritis, or fibromyalgia. Additionally, iTENS has muscle relaxation and massage modes to help relieve and soothe sore muscles. Furthermore, the most prominent feature of iTENS is the wireless electrode pads. iTENS has snap-on wing-shaped pads for easy and convenient use. iTENS Australia also offers various pad sizes to treat different body areas optimally. iTENS has the following pad options:

• Small wings – for small or joint areas
• Large wings – flexible rotating wings for broad treatment areas
• Long strip wings – for pain that radiates downward, such as sciatica or IT band syndrome

The Advantages of the iTENS Wireless TENS Machine

TENS therapy is suitable for a wide variety of acute and chronic conditions. People with chronic pain regularly seek safe and cost-efficient pain management methods. Similarly, people recovering from injuries want to relieve discomfort using natural techniques. TENS therapy helps reduce pain and minimises the need to see a doctor or take oral medications regularly. Moreover, iTENS enhances efficiency by utilising wireless electrode pads. The iTENS wireless TENS unit offers the following advantages:

• Compactness – the absence of wires means less bulk and increased portability. Thus, it is easy to carry them around and use them whenever pain strikes.
• Hypoallergenic gel pads – the iTENS utilise pre-gelled pads that adhere firmly but gently to the skin. Moreover, gel pads are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
• Easy pad placement – the wireless electrode pads are easy to place anywhere on the body. Simply peel off the protective cover and position the pads around the pain area. There is no need to spend additional time untangling messy wires before facilitating TENS therapy.
• Flexible – the gel pads are light and fit well despite movement. Moreover, they do not restrict the range of motion.
• Innovative app features – the iTENS app features ready programs for fast pain relief. You may also adjust the TENS setting manually, track treatment sessions, and check the pad placement guide through the app.
• Rechargeable batteries – iTENS uses energy-efficient lithium-ion batteries. Depending on the intensity, the batteries can last 24 to 36 hours from a single charge.

The Effectiveness of TENS Therapy

Pain is a complex phenomenon involving several physiological mechanisms at the same time. Some conditions or disorders may also overlap. Additionally, people react to different treatment methods such as medicines or therapies differently. Thus, it makes pain management very challenging. Similarly, each person can attain different pain relief using a TENS machine. Therefore, you may consult your physician before using TENS or other e-stim devices. Many TENS users express relief while using the device; others experience lasting pain alleviation after the session. Mostly, pain relief lasts between five minutes to 24 hours. People with chronic pain use a TENS machine several times a day to reduce the symptoms longer. However, for continuous treatments, ensure a 20-minute break between sessions.

There is no set time on how long you can wear the TENS electrode pads. However, it is important to follow the recommended duration for each treatment. You may find that you are wearing TENS too much if redness occurs. In this case, switch the device off and remove the pads. Additionally, it is best to start slowly and build up the time gradually. You may use a TENS machine during active hours or when you are experiencing severe symptoms.

TENS Pad Placement Guide

Another important aspect of TENS treatment is the correct placement of electrode pads. Positioning the pads on strategic pain points enables fast and effective relief. The advantage of TENS therapy is you can direct the electrical stimulation to targeted body areas only. Therefore, it minimises the risks of causing further damage to other organs or tissues. Generally, you may place the pads on either side of the pain. The electrical currents should direct to the centre of the most painful part. You may slightly adjust the pads around the area until you find the most effective results. However, avoid placing the electrode pads on the following areas:

• Eyes, temples, or anywhere in the head
• Front and sides of the neck
• Directly over the joints
• On numb or infected skin
• Open wounds
• Directly over the spinal column

Safety Precautions

Pain management using TENS therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and drug-free method for pain relief. Unlike oral analgesics, using a TENS machine does not result in adverse side effects. Therefore, you can use TENS frequently without the risk of developing dependency or other complications. You may also use a TENS machine safely in the comfort of your home without needing medical supervision. You may also purchase a TENS machine like the iTENS without a medical prescription. The iTENS wireless TENS device is a ready-to-use device suitable while you are working, exercising, or doing chores. However, following safety precautions are essential to conducting TENS treatment without worsening the situation.

In using the TENS device, avoid turning the frequency and intensity too high and too soon. Allow your body to accommodate the stimulation before increasing the settings. Furthermore, TENS treatment should be painless and comfortable. If it causes discomfort, decrease the intensity until the electrical pulses are mild enough. The iTENS pre-set programs allow you to adjust the intensity from mild to stronger settings according to your preferences. You can adjust the intensity on the device or through the app. Moreover, avoid using a TENS machine without medical advice if you have the following:

• Cancer
• Epilepsy
• Heart ailments
• Blood clots
• At the early stage of pregnancy
• Have an overactive bladder
• Have electronic equipment implanted, such as a cardiac pacemaker

Additionally, do not use a TENS device in the following:

• While sleeping
• While driving
• In a bath or a birth pool

Guide to Selecting a TENS Machine

TENS therapy is a safe and toxic-free pain relief method. There are little to no known risks in using TENS. Therefore, people with chronic pain use TENS to ease the discomfort risk-free. Moreover, choosing a personal TENS device takes careful consideration. For example, TENS machines may come in different variations, such as a specialised unit for labour pain. Checking the device features can help you pick out the best device. The wireless iTENS from iTENS Australia is a versatile pain relief tool. It can help relieve various acute and chronic conditions from one simple and light device. Furthermore, iTENS Australia offers spare accessory wings and refillable gel pads for various treatments.

The main consideration in selecting a TENS machine is the electrode pads. A wireless TENS unit enables you to manage pain conveniently and with minimal effort. Furthermore, the electrode pads of the TENS machine are reusable for several applications before needing replacement. The iTENS gel pads last longer than standard TENS compression pads. It is also easy to clean and maintain. To preserve the adhesiveness of the pads, periodically wipe out the gel residue by using a moist cloth. However, you may need to buy replacement pads when the pads no longer stick well to the skin. iTENS Australia offers low-cost refillable wing pads in multiple sizes when your TENS unit needs replacement.

Conclusion

The right strategies can help you manage pain effectively and conveniently. TENS therapy is a safe and non-invasive pain management method for various conditions. Also, it does not interfere with other procedures. Therefore, you may use TENS alone or in conjunction with other therapies. Electrotherapy devices like the iTENS at iTENS Australia are proven safe for personal use. It also reduces your need to take oral medications. Hence, it is the primary reason why many people prefer electrotherapy over other traditional methods. Additionally, the wireless feature of the iTENS machine enables individuals to carry out their normal routine. It is because iTENS is extremely discreet and unnoticeable when worn under clothing. You can trust iTENS from iTENS Australia to provide efficient pain management.