Living with muscle pain can be debilitating and impacts quality of life. Fortunately, there are various methods of relieving aches. One of them is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). Using an electronic TENS unit pulse massager is a drug-free and non-invasive way of achieving relief. It uses externally applied electrodes to deliver electrical currents to the sensory nerves. It can trigger spinal nerve cells to block pain signals. This also induces endorphin production.
TENS machines help many people achieve convenient and effective relief. It is effective in conditions like fibromyalgia, herniated discs, and osteoarthritis. This also helps people reduce their dependency on pain medicines. However, consulting a healthcare professional before using one is recommended. Studying how to use the device also has its benefits. This article will present what TENS is, how it works, and the safety guidelines for operating it.
What is an Electronic TENS Unit Pulse Massager?
An electronic TENS unit pulse massager is a pain relief device also known as a TENS machine. This uses externally applied electrode pads to deliver electrical pulses to the body. Generally, these have a frequency range of 1-150 Hz and an intensity range of 0-80 mA. This enables it to provide effective pain relief for chronic and acute pain conditions. People may purchase them online, in pharmacies, and in medical supply stores without prescriptions.
Generally, there are two types of TENS machines. These are the wired and wireless units. Wired or handheld machines use lead cables to connect the electrodes to the power source and controller. They are commonly seen in medical settings, like hospitals and physical therapy clinics. Many value them for their ability to deliver powerful stimulation.
Meanwhile, wireless TENS units use Bluetooth technology to control the device settings. It removes the restrictions of lead cables, making them ideal for those who lead active lifestyles. It enables people to be more comfortable and do simple activities during the session. Moreover, they are portable, with varied options for electrodes.
Conditions It Can Treat
- Fibromyalgia: a condition that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain, general fatigue, and tenderness.
- Diabetic neuropathy: nerve damage from diabetes, which causes aches and numbness in the leg, hands, and feet.
- Osteoarthritis: a degenerative disease that is the most common form of arthritis. The common symptoms of this is stiffness and joint pain.
- Migraines: pulsating or throbbing headaches accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
- Herniated disc: occurs when a disc is forced out of a weakened part of the spinal cord.
- Sports injuries: fractures, sprains, and strains.
- Various body aches: include knee pain, leg pain, ankle pain, arm pain, and elbow pain.
How Does an Electronic TENS Unit Pulse Massager Work?
An electronic TENS unit pulse massager uses low-voltage electric currents to stimulate the sensory nerves. Users can customise this stimulation by adjusting the intensity, frequency, and pulse-width settings. They may also select preset program modes tailored for specific body parts and conditions. By applying the electrodes near or on the pain area, they can achieve targeted pain relief.
Using high-frequency stimulation (50-150 Hz) triggers spinal nerve cells to block the transmission of pain signals. This is the pain-gating mechanism described in the Gate Control Theory of Pain. Many use it for acute pain conditions because it takes effect quickly. Moreover, this setting has a massage-like effect. It can help increase blood circulation and relax sore muscles.
Meanwhile, low-frequency stimulation (2-10 Hz) triggers the production of endogenous opioids. These hormones are natural painkillers that build up and reduce the overall pain sensation. This is ideal for chronic pain conditions because its effects last hours after the session. In addition, endorphins can improve moods, reduce stress, and decrease inflammation.
Benefits of Using the Device
There are many benefits to using TENS machines. Firstly, it is non-invasive. This removes the risks of complications from invasive methods like infections. Secondly, it is drug-free. This helps reduce or replace the intake of pain medicines, which can have many adverse effects. This includes stomach bleeding, nausea, and headaches. Moreover, it does not cause addiction or dependency.
Thirdly, it is complementary to other treatments. This is why physical therapists and doctors include TENS in their treatment plans. Lastly, TENS helps improve the quality of life by increasing mobility and providing temporary but natural relief.
Precautions When Operating an Electronic TENS Unit Pulse Massager
Ensuring safety is crucial when operating an electronic TENS unit pulse massager. Users must take precautions before and during the session. Foremost, individuals should consult a medical professional before using any electrotherapy device. They may assess if TENS suits the condition and advise on how to use the machine. Furthermore, users may read the instruction manual from the product manufacturer.
Ensure the device is in good condition before starting. Check for any breaks in the wires and if the adhesives need replacement. Place the electrodes on the muscles near or on the pain source. Then, start at low settings when using the device. This can help prevent discomfort or sudden shocks. Afterwards, they can gradually increase the settings or select a preset mode.
Avoid sleeping or engaging in activities that require concentration. This includes driving and operating heavy machinery since distractions can have severe repercussions. Also, avoid contact with water during the treatment. Lastly, do not exceed the prescribed time for the session. Overusing the machine may lead to skin irritation, mild burns, and muscle and nerve damage.
Areas to Avoid
Proper electrode placement is crucial for an effective therapy session. People may refer to charts or guides depending on their condition to ensure safe placement. Generally, users place electrodes on muscle areas near or on the origin of the pain. For example, they apply electrodes on the muscles around the knee for knee pain.
Users must avoid placing them on joints and bones. They should also refrain from placing adhesives on sensitive areas. This includes the spinal cord, chest, throat, mouth, eyes, and head. Lastly, avoid areas with abnormal skin conditions like irritations or infections.
Conclusion
An electronic TENS unit pulse massager is a helpful tool for relieving a wide variety of pain conditions. Using electric stimulation can trigger the body to alleviate pain using the pain-gating mechanism and the production of endorphins. However, it is crucial to take safety precautions before and while using the device. One safety tip is to consult a healthcare professional before using TENS. Another is to avoid placing electrodes in sensitive areas.
Many people use TENS to reduce or replace their intake of pain medicines. It is effective for conditions like herniated discs, osteoarthritis, and sports injuries. Moreover, using it is a straightforward process that is easy to self-administer. People may buy TENS machines online or in pharmacies. There are wired and wireless options for TENS products available without prescriptions. Those looking for a wireless TENS device may consider the iTENS from iTENS Australia.
