A Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation or TENS electric pain relief machine is a battery-powered device that emits electrical currents. It is a method of pain relief that delivers electrical pulses to the body via electrode pads placed on the skin. Nevertheless, operating a TENS electronic device is straightforward. Identify the treatment locations and prepare the skin over it. Subsequently, position the adhesive electrode pads, following the proper electrode placement. Finally, turn on the unit and customise the settings.
Dealing with various types of pain can be debilitating and exhausting. Thus, it is essential to have an efficient form of pain relief. Traditional pain management includes medication. However, they may come with unwanted side effects. Conversely, TENS therapy has gained popularity as a safe and effective treatment. Health professionals, pain clinics, and pain specialists often recommend it. This article will present how TENS electrical pain relief works, including its benefits and how to operate it.
How TENS Electric Pain Relief Works
TENS electric pain relief works in various ways to provide effective analgesia. The pain gate mechanism is central to TENS effectiveness. Essentially, the human body transmits pain messages to the brain through the nervous system. TENS interrupts the transmission of pain signals by rapidly stimulating nerve fibres that close the “gate” to painful input. Thus, it prevents the brain from perceiving pain intensity.
Endorphins, often dubbed as the natural painkillers of the body, also contribute significantly to the pain-relief mechanism of TENS. The electrical signals from the TENS unit prompt the body to produce and release endorphins. These biochemicals bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. As a result, it reduces the perception of discomfort and promotes a sense of well-being.
Finally, TENS assists in alleviating discomfort by enhancing blood flow to the targeted area. The electrical stimulation encourages vasodilation, which is the widening of blood vessels. Nevertheless, this improved blood circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to body tissues. It aids in the healing process. Moreover, it helps to remove waste products and reduce inflammation.
Frequencies and Intensities
The effectiveness of TENS relies on the adjustment of the following settings:
- Frequencies (Hertz): Refers to the number of electric currents per second. Generally, low and high frequencies are the two main settings. Low-frequency TENS or Acupuncture-like TENS (1-10 Hz) stimulates the body to produce endorphins. Meanwhile, high-frequency TENS (50-120 Hz) works by rapidly delivering electrical pulses. It is effective in blocking pain signals.
- Intensities (Milliamperes or mA): Determines the strength of the electric currents. Adjusting the intensity is crucial to tailor the therapy to individual pain thresholds and various pain characteristics. Nevertheless, this should be set at a solid but comfortable intensity.
Benefits of TENS Electric Pain Relief
TENS electric pain relief offers a natural method of pain relief. It eases discomfort without incisions, injections, surgical procedures, or medications. It is appealing to those who prefer non-surgical or non-pharmaceutical remedies. Furthermore, TENS therapy provides targeted relief. Hence, this precision allows for direct treatment, which is particularly useful for localised relief.
Moreover, TENS units are incredibly versatile. It caters to various types of pain. This makes it a suitable option for many individuals suffering from different conditions. Additionally, most TENS devices are portable. It enables users to receive relief on the go. They can use it at home, work, or while travelling. It is highly beneficial for maintaining daily activities without being hindered by discomfort.
Another critical feature of TENS therapy is its adjustability. Users can personalise their treatment by customising the pulse rate, pulse amplitudes, and pulse duration. It ensures the treatment remains practical and comfortable for the user. From a financial standpoint, TENS treatment is a cost-effective solution. Users can have ongoing relief without the recurring costs of medications or frequent clinic visits.
Treatable Conditions
The technique emerges as a multifaceted tool in pain management. TENS is effective in managing sudden and sharp acute pain conditions. It often arises due to injuries, surgeries, menstrual cramps, and tension headaches. TENS therapy is also valuable in addressing persistent chronic pain conditions. It includes conditions like backaches, fibromyalgia, and arthritis pain.
Neuropathic pain, caused by nerve damage, responds well to TENS treatment. It can result from conditions such as diabetic neuropathy and sciatica. Furthermore, TENS is beneficial in aiding musculoskeletal pain. It affects the bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, or tendons. It may involve joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis pain.
How to Operate TENS Electric Pain Relief
Operating a TENS electric pain relief machine involves a straightforward process. Before starting, clean the skin area where the electrode pads will be placed. It ensures good adhesion and conductivity. The skin should be free of oils, creams, and sweat. Accordingly, attach the electrode patches directly to the skin over the pain area or along the nerve pathways. It is essential to follow specific guidelines for pad placement.
With the electrodes in place, turn on the TENS units. Adjust the pulse frequency, intensity, and duration. The goal is to set it to a level that feels strong but comfortable. It is vital to start low and gradually increase the intensity to find the optimal setting. Also, most TENS units offer different modes of stimulation. It may include continuous, bursts, or modulated.
Typically, treatment sessions last between 15 to 30 minutes. However, it can go longer depending on the severity of the discomfort or recommendations of professionals. After the therapy, turn off the TENS machine before removing the electrode patches from the skin. This prevents sudden or uncomfortable electrical shocks. Store the device properly to maintain its lifespan.
Safety Precautions
Foremost, individuals should always consult a healthcare professional before starting TENS therapy. It is particularly crucial for people with underlying medical conditions like epilepsy and heart problems. Also, a medical professional can guide the optimal placement of electrode pads and appropriate settings. Furthermore, do not place the electrodes on the head, eyes, mouth, throat, chest, bony regions, broken skin, or open wounds.
Additionally, avoid starting the therapy with high settings. It can cause electrical shocks and discomfort. Moreover, it is essential not to use TENS machines while operating heavy machinery, driving, sleeping, or in the shower or bath.
Conclusion
In conclusion, TENS electric pain relief is a popular and effective method for managing discomfort. It is an electrical device that delivers electrical pulses to the body via electrodes placed on the skin. Accordingly, this activity works in many ways to provide effective analgesia. It interrupts the transmission of pain signals to the brain and prompts the production and release of endorphins. It also enhances blood flow. Additionally, TENS employs the currents in different frequencies and intensities.
Furthermore, TENS therapy offers numerous benefits to users. It is natural, versatile, portable, adjustable, cost-effective, and provides targeted relief. It can treat various conditions, including tension headaches, backaches, diabetic neuropathy, and osteoarthritis. Nevertheless, operating a TENS machine is easy. Prepare the skin, position the electrodes, turn on the device, and customise the settings. However, knowing the safety precautions is crucial to ensure optimal TENS therapy experience.
