Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) offers people an alternative relief from pain. It utilises a battery-operated device that sends low-voltage electrical currents to the body through electrode pads. Finding the best TENS machine for your needs can be challenging as there are many models in the market. Nevertheless, considering the essential factors can help make the selection easy. It is vital to review the features, number of programs, electrode types and pad options when choosing a unit.
TENS machines have helped many people alleviate many types of pain and discomfort. It also allows individuals to manage pain whenever they need it without going to a hospital or clinic. Likewise, it is a natural and non-invasive form of pain treatment. This article will present the key components in looking for a suitable TENS machine, including treatment modes, types of electrodes, and ease of use.
Treatment Modes of the Best TENS Machine
Portable TENS comes with customisable settings and preset treatment modes. The latter have fixed pulse patterns for faster and more efficient use. Common treatment modes are burst, modulation, and continuous. Aside from these, devices like the iTENS have therapies based on body locations or health conditions. Thus, you may look for the best TENS machine with a variety of programs.
Burst mode delivers short electrical pulses followed by periods of rest. It stimulates the peripheral nerve fibres using high frequencies. It is beneficial for chronic pain to provide temporary relief while minimising the risks of muscle fatigue. Modulation mode varies the frequencies in a cyclical pattern. This design helps prevent the body from developing tolerance, which may reduce its effectiveness over time.
Lastly, continuous mode uses consistent pulses without pauses in between cycles. It has steady impulses and an interval rate. It is also ideal for chronic pain by achieving the pain-gating effect. Experts recommend trying different intensity settings to find optimal results. Most units allow you to control the levels of intensity for mild to severe pain.
Conditions TENS Can Treat
A TENS device can treat multiple pain conditions, such as the following:
- Common acute pain, such as muscle strain, minor fractures, soreness, and cramps
- Period pain
- Lower back pain and intense cramping during labour
- Joint pains like neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, and ankle.
- Nerve pains like sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, and peripheral neuropathy
- Arthritis pain or joint inflammation
- Degenerative disc disease, including herniated disc, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis
- Spinal cord injuries
- Headaches and chronic migraine
- Post-surgery pain
- Chronic pelvic pain, including endometriosis and stimulation of the pelvic floor muscles
- Other types of neuropathic pain
Device Types and Electrodes of the Best TENS Machine
When choosing the best TENS machine, the prominent feature to consider is the type of electrode. These electrotherapy devices come in two kinds – traditional and wireless. A traditional TENS device has lead cables connected to the electrode pads. Using this unit involves attaching the wires from the device to the electrodes and sticking the latter to the affected area.
On the other hand, a wireless TENS machine provides more flexibility as you do not need to attach cables. The device has a compact power button where the electrode pads attach. Additionally, it has Bluetooth capability to connect to a control unit or mobile app. Therefore, the medical device is controllable via smartphone.
Another consideration when choosing TENS is the kinds of pads. One common type is the self-adhesive electrodes. They are easy to use as they can be directly applied to the skin. They are also reusable and can last multiple sessions, making them cost-efficient for chronic pain management. Other types are wearable gloves, bands, or belts. They target specific areas, such as the hands, back, or knee.
Advantages of Wireless TENS Units
Wireless TENS machines present several advantages over their traditional counterparts. Firstly, it is more compact and portable due to the absence of wires. This makes it more discreet when worn underneath the clothing. Secondly, it does not need additional wire set-up before use, and it enables quicker pad placement.
Thirdly, it allows a wide range of movement as there is no risk of wires tangling. Moreover, it eliminates the constant replacement of wires due to the breakage that traditional units require. Lastly, its app connectivity provides a wider range of settings. One of the highly recommended wireless units is the iTENS from iTENS Australia.
Ease of Use and Efficiency of the Best TENS Machine
Many consider ease of use and efficiency as two of the aspects of looking for the best TENS machine. TENS therapy allows immediate pain relief by using the device whenever the symptoms appear. A home TENS unit, for example, has simple controls and preset modes for quick use. Hence, it enables self-administration, saving time, money, and effort in going to a regular medical check-up or physical therapy session.
Moreover, wireless TENS machines, like the iTENS, enable you to control pain relief through the convenience of a smartphone. Through an app, you can select a treatment mode or set your parameters. Likewise, the app can store customised settings and track usage time to help manage therapy sessions.
TENS devices are available in pharmacies or online without a prescription. It has modulated frequency levels, making it safe for individuals to use. Therefore, it allows you to find a stimulation setting that best fits your needs. Nonetheless, it is advisable to consult with a doctor or physical therapist before starting TENS therapy. As a precaution, it is not suitable during pregnancy and for individuals with heart conditions, epilepsy, and electrical implanted devices.
Care Guide and Maintenance
Proper care and regular maintenance are vital to prolong the life of the TENS machine. For optimal use, clean the pads with a moist cloth to remove excess dirt or gel residue. This also ensures adhesion for a long time. After use, cover the pads with a thin film or plastic to prevent them from drying out.
Do not use the device near water or submerge it in liquids. When not in use, store the machine at room temperature. Furthermore, replace the pads when they no longer stick firmly to the skin. It is best to use brand-specific or compatible replacement pads to avoid damage.
Conclusion
More people choose TENS therapy because it is a safe and non-invasive method of pain relief. It utilises mild electrical currents to stimulate the nerves to relieve pain. Moreover, it is essential to consider several factors in choosing the best TENS machine. It includes understanding the treatment modes and programs, the types of electrodes, and their efficiency. In addition, it is recommended to check what kind of pain it can treat and the adjustable intensity levels.
TENS machine comes in wired or wireless electrodes. The difference in electrode pads can significantly impact pain management. For instance, a wireless TENS unit enables convenient pad placement for faster use. It is also more portable and easy to carry around. Additionally, individuals may choose a device based on the available preset modes for their condition. Thus, they can facilitate TENS therapy at the touch of a button.
