Back pain is a common problem for people worldwide. There are various causes for it, and it can cause pain and discomfort, which decreases the quality of life. One pain management method that people use for this is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). It is a drug-free and non-invasive method of pain relief. Those searching for the best TENS unit for back pain 2022 should ensure the product has the preferred device type and features.
Doctors and physical therapists often use TENS machines to help alleviate different types of pain. It is effective for various conditions like menstrual cramps and nerve pain. Many also use devices at home for convenience. There are many options for TENS products available online and in pharmacies. This article will present the benefits of using TENS, the different device types, and the standard features of TENS units.
Best TENS Unit for Back Pain 2022 – Benefits
When searching for the best TENS unit for back pain 2022, knowing the benefits of owning one is vital. TENS provides natural short-term pain relief using electrical stimulation. TENS machines have adjustable settings, allowing the user to customise their session. This enables it to produce personalised treatments for different conditions.
Furthermore, TENS is easy to self-administer. Many units have user-friendly interfaces, allowing users to navigate the controls easily. They may use high frequencies to trigger spinal nerve cells to block pain signals from reaching the brain. Alternatively, they can use low frequencies to induce the production of endorphins, which has multiple benefits.
Moreover, TENS provide relief for various conditions. This includes acute pain from sports injuries and body aches like neck pain and foot pain. It also provides effective relief for chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, and sciatica. Nevertheless, consulting a medical professional is crucial before using TENS. They may assess the individual and ensure that TENS is safe for them to use.
Why Consider TENS as a Method of Pain Relief?
- Non-invasive: TENS uses externally applied electrode pads to deliver electrical pulses. It does not use needles or require incisions, removing the risks of infection and other complications. Moreover, no lengthy recovery period is needed after using it.
- Drug-free: TENS therapy does not require users to intake medicines. This makes it a suitable alternative to pain medication. In addition, it is not addictive and safe for people to use multiple times daily.
- Portable: many TENS machines have compact and lightweight designs. This makes it easy for individuals to carry and use the unit whenever needed.
- Complementary: TENS is often used together with other treatments.
Best TENS Unit for Back Pain 2022 – Device Types
Individuals should consider the different device types while looking for the best TENS unit for back pain 2022. TENS units are typically composed of electrode pads and a control unit. The electrode pads deliver low-voltage electric currents, while the control unit allows the user to adjust the output. Generally, there are two types of TENS machines: wired and wireless.
Wired or handheld units are often seen in hospitals and pain clinics. These use lead cables to connect the electrodes directly to the control unit and power supply. Many value them for the high levels of power they can send. They can have single, dual, or four channels.
Meanwhile, wireless TENS machines utilise Bluetooth to link the electrodes to the controller. The electrodes may link to a specialised device controller or a smartphone application for wireless units. Many value them because they use advanced technology to enhance the convenience of using TENS. Although some units may cost more than handheld types, wireless machines can be more cost-effective in the long term.
Advantages of a Wireless Machine
Wireless machines have several advantages over their traditional counterparts. Firstly, wireless machines allow users more freedom to move because of the lack of cables. This is ideal for those with active lifestyles or those who wish to do simple activities. It also requires less set-up time since the electrodes can quickly connect via Bluetooth.
Secondly, wireless devices may offer the user a wider selection of preset modes. This makes it more convenient for people who wish to quickly soothe their pain without adjusting the settings manually. Lastly, wireless units offer more varieties of pad shapes and sizes.
Best TENS Unit for Back Pain 2022 – Device Features
The best TENS unit for back pain 2022 should have certain features that enable it to effectively provide relief from pain. TENS machines are battery-operated medical devices. Some use replaceable batteries, while some use rechargeable ones. Many prefer the latter because it removes the hassle of buying new batteries. Moreover, it is easier for them to ensure the batteries will not run out during the session.
Another feature of TENS machines is the reusable electrode pads. These pads come in various shapes and sizes and can vary depending on the model of the TENS unit. Many handheld TENS products use more common shapes, such as circles and squares. Meanwhile, wireless units, like the iTENS from iTENS Australia, offer wing-shaped electrodes for easier use.
Adjustable settings and pre-set programs are also essential features of any TENS machine. The individual must ensure they get a TENS product that suits their needs. To help with this, they may get advice from health professionals or read reviews from previous buyers.
Adjustable Settings and Pre-Set Programs
Generally, TENS machines have a frequency range of 1-150 Hz and an intensity range of 0-80 mA. This wide range allows users to customise their session, depending on their condition. Users may adjust the pulse duration, frequency, and intensity levels manually using the controller. Some wireless units provide the option of adjusting them on the electrode itself.
Meanwhile, pre-set modes are treatment programs tailored for specific body parts and conditions. This allows users to quickly select a mode instead of experimenting with different settings. Some examples of program modes are the burst, continuous, and modulation modes.
Conclusion
Those searching for the best TENS unit for back pain 2022 should consider various factors before purchasing one. They must ensure the device type suits their preferences and the features it offers to suit their needs. Individuals may choose between handheld or wireless units. Those with active lifestyles who wish to use TENS on the go may prefer wireless machines. Meanwhile, some may prefer the multiple channels of wired TENS.
The person must ensure the product has adjustable settings and sufficient selection for electrode pads. They should also decide if they would prefer rechargeable or replaceable batteries. Doing this will allow them to attain the maximum benefits from TENS. Besides backaches, TENS machines can also alleviate pain from various conditions, like arthritis and fibromyalgia. It is non-invasive and drug-free, which is why it is steadily gaining popularity. Those interested in a wireless machine may consider the iTENS from iTENS Australia.
