A throbbing, painful sensation in the lower abdomen often marks the days leading to the menstrual period. Period cramps are unpleasant when they happen. Women find it hard to concentrate at work or school because the dull and continuous ache disrupts normal daily activities. Devices like the wireless iTENS unit can effectively deal with monthly period pains with the proper placement and settings. Can a TENS unit help with period cramps? The answer, luckily, is YES.
How can a TENS unit help with period cramps? Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a form of electrical pain management that stimulates the body’s nerve to block the pain through a series of tiny electrical pulses. The TENS machine is a compact-sized device that is attachable to the skin through sticky electrode pads. The device transmits electrical pulses to the nervous system creating a reaction that intercepts pain signals to the brain. The iTENS is a wireless TENS unit that can relieve pain as they occur. The wireless iTENS is Bluetooth compatible device that is controllable from a smartphone. The iTENS app comes with preset features for various body pains, including period cramps.
Can a TENS Unit Help with Period Cramps: The Process
Let’s examine what happens to the body to know how can a TENS unit help with period cramps. During the menstrual period, the prostaglandins, the hormone that regulates the female reproductive system and menstrual cycle, trigger the contractions in the uterus to help expel its lining. The contractions cause the muscles surrounding the uterus to cut off blood and oxygen supply. Finally, the lack of blood and oxygen in the womb results in painful muscle cramps. The TENS unit stimulates the nerves to relax to lessen the pain. It also helps in producing high levels of endorphins, which are the body’s painkillers.
Can a TENS unit help with period cramps safely? Some home treatments for period cramps include the use of heating pads and exercise. Some women prefer to take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are oral medications to reduce muscle and joint pains. But long-term use of NSAIDs comes with side effects. The common side effects include stomach irritation and ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and blood clots. The iTENS, on the other hand, is safe and non-invasive with no adverse side effects. It is a medical device that has FDA’S approval and no known adverse side effects. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare specialist (Doctor or Physiotherapist) on the proper use of a TENS machine.
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