Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a form of low-voltage electrotherapy. A TENS machine uses electrode pads to deliver electrical impulses. This electric current triggers nerve cells to block pain signals and induce the release of endorphins. People must consider several factors when looking for a good TENS unit. The first factor is the device type and features it offers. Moreover, a cost-effective and convenient-to-use device is ideal. Lastly, it must treat various conditions like sports injuries, fibromyalgia, and arthritis.
TENS therapy is an alternative pain management method to pain medication. Owning a TENS unit provides people with convenient pain relief at home. Wired and wireless options are available to purchase in pharmacies or online stores. It is best to consult a health professional before using TENS to ensure safety. This article will present the factors to consider when searching for a TENS unit, such as device type and features, cost-effectiveness and convenience, and its treatable conditions.
Good TENS Unit – Device Type and Features
When choosing a good TENS unit, considering the device type and features it offers is crucial. TENS machines are electrotherapy devices that deliver electrical currents through electrode pads. Most units have a frequency range of 1-150Hz and an intensity range of 0-80 mAmp. Controllers adjust the settings for optimal pain relief. Generally, there are two types of TENS units. Wired and wireless TENS units are both effective for pain relief.
Many medical professionals use wired or handheld TENS units in hospitals or therapy clinics. Doctors and physical therapists often use them as a method of pain relief. This type of TENS machine uses lead cables to connect the controller and power supply to the pads. Some devices may permit people to use up to eight electrodes if needed.
On the other hand, many people find more convenience in using wireless units. Controllers connect to wireless electrode pads using Bluetooth technology. Some may even use smartphone applications to control the pads. Wireless TENS users may select from various preset modes to address different concerns. Moreover, these units often have rechargeable batteries and specialised pads for optimal pain relief.
Advantages of a Wireless Unit
There are several advantages to using a wireless TENS machine. Here are some of them:
- It provides targeted pain relief in various settings.
- Wireless units incorporate newer technologies for better efficiency.
- People may wear wireless pads discreetly under clothing.
- Wireless units remove the setup time required with wired units.
- It removes the need to check for breaks in the electrode cables, which may cause shock.
- Some wireless units have more contoured pads than the more generic shapes of wired TENS electrodes.
- It may reduce or replace the intake of oral pain medications.
- Using TENS has a massage-like effect that reduces muscle stress.
Good TENS Unit – Cost-Effectiveness and Convenience
Another factor to consider when looking for a good TENS unit is its cost-effectiveness and convenience. Purchasing a personal TENS unit removes the need to go to medical settings for a therapy session. Instead, people may use them at home or in other settings. Many TENS units are available at affordable prices. These machines allow individuals to experience drug-free pain relief without experiencing a significant financial burden.
Besides the initial cost of the device, people must also consider long-term cost and convenience. Handheld units require lead cables, which will break and need replacement over time. Meanwhile, wireless units remove this additional expense. Some may also prefer rechargeable batteries over replacing them after some use. Rechargeable batteries enable users to ensure their devices will not run out of power during the session.
Furthermore, some may prefer to do simple activities during therapy. Wireless electrodes are ideal for this since lead cables restrict movement. Taking long-term use is crucial for deciding what TENS unit to purchase. People may buy FDA-cleared devices to ensure the device has undergone rigorous testing.
Ease of Use
TENS machines are easy to use without medical supervision. Many devices offer user-friendly interfaces so users can easily navigate and control their units. To start using a TENS machine, the user must place the pad near or on the pain area. Then, they can turn the machine on and adjust the settings for pain relief.
Furthermore, they may select preset modes to address different body parts or pain conditions. When the time for the session elapses, they only need to turn off the machine. Then, they may remove the pads and store them for future use.
Good TENS Unit – Treatable Conditions
Individuals must understand which conditions a good TENS unit can help with. TENS machines use electrical stimulation to address chronic and acute pain conditions. Using high-frequency stimulation (50-120 Hz), electrical pulses trigger spinal nerve cells to block pain signals from reaching the brain. This setting is best for acute pain since it takes effect immediately or within 30 minutes for most people. Examples of acute pain include postoperative pain and sports injuries.
On the other hand, low-frequency stimulation triggers the production of endorphins. These are natural painkillers that build up and relieve pain in the area. This setting is ideal for addressing chronic pain because its effects last hours after the session.
Examples of chronic pain include fibromyalgia. This ailment causes widespread musculoskeletal pain, tenderness, and fatigue. It is an ailment which currently has no treatment. Another chronic pain condition is diabetic-related neuropathy. This is nerve damage caused by diabetes. It results in numbness and pain in the legs, hands, and feet. Lastly, arthritis is a chronic condition that causes joint pain and inflammation.
Safety Considerations
It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before using TENS machines. This ensures that TENS is compatible with the user. Some health issues react negatively to electrical stimulation. People with electrical and metal implants, like pacemakers, should refrain from using TENS. Additionally, pregnant women should not use TENS before labour.
Furthermore, users should check the guidelines from the device manufacturer. Understanding how to control the device is crucial for safety. Moreover, proper pad placement is another vital consideration. Avoid placing pads on infected or broken skin. Additionally, avoid placing them on sensitive areas such as the spinal cord, chest, and throat.
Conclusion
A good TENS unit provides the user with convenient and effective pain relief. Individuals must consider various factors before selecting one. Wired and wireless units differ in their level of convenience. However, both have adjustable settings to relieve pain. Owning a personal TENS machine removes the hassle of going to hospitals or therapy clinics for a therapy session. People may use TENS to relieve pain from conditions such as diabetic-related neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and arthritis.
People may purchase wired or wireless units depending on their needs. These are available in online stores and pharmacies. People may buy them without prescriptions. However, it is best to consult a medical professional before using TENS to ensure safety. An option for a wireless TENS unit is the iTENS from iTENS Australia. It is an FDA-cleared device that effectively alleviates pain from chronic and acute conditions. Furthermore, it has a smartphone application with a user-friendly interface.
