Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) therapy is an effective method for managing different kinds of pain. A TENS neck pain machine is a battery-operated device. It uses externally applied electrode pads to deliver electrical stimulation. To operate it, apply the pads at the back of the neck, about two inches below the skull. Then, connect the pads to the control unit and adjust the settings accordingly. TENS can trigger the pain gate mechanism and endorphin production for relief.
Neck pain is a common ailment many people experience. It can develop due to lifestyle habits or other diseases. To treat it, many use pain medications. However, these may cause adverse effects. Hence, many seek alternative treatments like TENS. Many patients use this device in medical settings and their homes. TENS machines are convenient and user-friendly for quick relief. This article will present information on TENS units for neck pain, their benefits, and how to use them.
What is a TENS Neck Pain Machine?
Cervical pain is a common ailment people suffer from. There are several causes for this condition. Hence, many seek ways to alleviate cervical pain. A frequently used method is taking pain medication. However, this can have several adverse effects. One alternative treatment is using a TENS neck pain machine.
A TENS device is a small, battery-operated machine unit. It is a medical device that sends low-voltage electrical currents to the human body using electrode pads. This electrical stimulation can trigger the nerves to block pain signals and induce the production of endorphins. Moreover, it can help relieve sore muscles and reduce inflammation. This can help improve the range of motion in a stiff neck and provides effective relief.
Generally, there are two types of TENS units. The traditional unit uses lead cables to connect the control unit and electrode pads. Meanwhile, wireless devices use Bluetooth to link the controller and TENS pads. People can buy TENS machines online or at physical stores. There is a comprehensive selection available for different needs.
Causes of Neck Pain
- Poor posture: Improper posture while sitting, standing, or lying down can lead to overuse of the neck muscle tissues. It can lead to achy, tense muscles.
- Lifestyle: Repetitive movements from work or sports may also cause tense muscles or painful spasms. In addition, carrying heavy objects may also contribute to neck and shoulder blade aches.
- Diseases: Arthritis, meningitis, and musculoskeletal disorders can cause cervical pain.
- Neuropathic disorders: Pinched nerves or nerve compression may lead to significant pain in the cervical spine.
- Injuries from accidents: Motor vehicle accidents may cause whiplash that strains the muscle tissues in the neck region.
Benefits of Using a TENS Neck Pain Machine
There are several benefits of using a TENS neck pain machine. Firstly, it reduces the need for invasive procedures. Also, this helps individuals avoid complications from these procedures, like infections. Secondly, it can help people with chronic neck pain decrease their intake of pain medications. Hence, this can help individuals avoid the adverse effects of pain medication, which include stomach bleeding, nausea, and increased risks for liver disease.
Thirdly, TENS units are portable due to their lightweight designs and battery operation. This feature allows users to use the unit for immediate neck pain relief whenever needed. Some TENS products even offer wearable wireless electrode pads for convenience. Furthermore, TENS is an adjunct therapy that can help cover the limitations of other methods. It complements physical therapy and other treatment options to improve outcomes.
Lastly, TENS therapy is easy to self-administer. Sessions do not require medical supervision and can be used several times daily. Moreover, many TENS machine units offer user-friendly controls and a wide range of preset programs for different types of pain. These include arm pain and neck muscle pain. It may also have deep massage programs.
Are There Potential Side Effects?
Although TENS is safe for most people, they may experience some adverse effects during the session. A common side effect is muscle twitching and tingling sensations near the electrode side. This is typically from high-intensity levels. It will also fade after the session.
Potential skin irritation in areas under the electrode is another probable side effect. This is usually due to overuse of the device. It is crucial to remember to take at least a 20-minute break time after sessions to prevent this. Lastly, some may experience an allergic reaction to the adhesive or the pads.
How to Use a TENS Neck Pain Machine
Using a TENS neck pain machine is a straightforward procedure. Start by applying the electrode pads on clean skin near the target area for relief of pain. Next, link the pads to the control unit with wires or Bluetooth. Once secure, the operator may start the treatment by turning the machine on. Then, they can adjust the frequency, intensity, and pulse-width settings according to their comfort level.
TENS sessions typically last between 20 to 30 minutes. This can vary depending on the health condition of the user. To help keep track of this, they may set a timer to avoid overusing the device. When the treatment duration elapses, they can turn it off and remove the electrodes. To lengthen the lifespan of the reusable pads, the person can clean them using a few drops of water and a clean cloth.
To better understand how to use their TENS device, the user can study the operation manual. They may also consult a healthcare provider or pain management professional to assess their condition and learn how to reduce their cervical pain effectively.
Where to Place the Electrodes?
Correct electrode placement is crucial to address various kinds of pain. It ensures the delivery of electrical stimulation to strategic areas. Generally, the ideal placement for TENS pads is on muscles near the pain source. The placement for neck pain is to the back of the cervical spine, about two inches below the skull.
It is essential to avoid sensitive areas, such as the throat and spinal cord. This is because they are sensitive areas that may have adverse reactions to direct electrical stimulation. The chest is another sensitive area, especially for those with heart disease, since TENS can interfere with the heart rhythm.
Conclusion
A TENS neck pain machine is a helpful tool for alleviating aches in the cervical spine. It is a device that sends electric currents to the target area for relief. The electrical stimulation can induce spinal nerve cells to block pain signals. It can also trigger endorphin release for lasting relief. Some TENS devices also have preset massage programs to simulate the feelings and effects of a neck massage. It can help provide temporary relief and reduce muscle soreness.
There are many benefits to using a TENS device. It is a non-invasive and drug-free method that poses minimal risks, particularly when compared to surgery and medications. It can be used several times daily without risks of dependency. To operate a TENS machine, apply the electrode pads at the back of the neck, then adjust the settings accordingly. People interested in using a wireless TENS unit may consider the iTENS from iTENS Australia.
