Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) therapy is a highly effective pain management method that relies on our body’s natural response to electricity. A TENS device uses low-voltage electrical currents to stimulate our nerves. Pain relief through electrical nerve stimulation falls under the “Gate Control Theory” of pain management. This theory states that the constant electrical stimulation from a TENS device can cause our gating mechanism to close. Our pain signals would pass through these gating channels to reach the brain. Closure of these channels can block away pain signals, thus, reducing the pain sensations we would typically feel from an injury or health condition. Highly effective personal units like the iTENS or the Painmate TENS device can help provide pain relief through the Gate Control Theory.
Additionally, the iTENS from iTENS Australia and the Painmate TENS device can also help induce endorphin release. These hormones are our body’s natural painkillers. However, these hormones can also have other positive effects, aside from pain relief. Therefore, professionals often refer to endorphins as the “happy” or “feel-good” hormone. Endorphins can also help induce stress relief, muscle tension relief, relaxation, improved mood, and better sleeping patterns (thanks to their relaxation effects). Since the iTENS and Painmate seem to have similar features and effects, many ask: Which device is better?
iTENS vs the Painmate TENS Device: Wireless Features and Controls
Today’s innovations have enabled TENS therapy to be more convenient through wireless devices. Furthermore, it is essential to note that wireless TENS machines are now as effective as the traditional (wired) ones. The iTENS and the Painmate TENS device are entirely wireless TENS units and have similar effectiveness. However, there are features available on the iTENS that can’t be seen in the Painmate. One of these features is Bluetooth connectivity. The option for Bluetooth connectivity can allow the iTENS users to connect it to their smartphones seamlessly. Moreover, this feature can also enable users to activate and control the iTENS without reaching for it. Smartphone connectivity can drastically help users looking to treat hard to reach areas like the lower back. Users would no longer need to struggle when trying to adjust their parameters during treatment.
The wireless features of the iTENS and the Painmate TENS device enable users to move more freely during TENS treatments. This feature allows users to do other activities simultaneously during their pain management treatments. During TENS therapy, users can work, do household chores, and even exercise with a wireless unit. This feature can drastically help users who have slightly busier schedules. Additionally, since both TENS machines are discreet under clothing, these devices are not strangers to being used outside homes. However, while on the go, the iTENS’ smartphone Bluetooth controls may seem more convenient.
Why buy these Wireless Devices?
The iTENS and the Painmate TENS device can be versatile, thanks to their wireless features. Having no wires allow electrodes to be placed all around the body easier. This means that these wireless TENS devices are more capable of treating various health conditions, painful body parts, or injuries. Owning a personal TENS device like the iTENS from iTENS Australia or the Painmate can help users treat pain in the following areas:
- Neck
- Back (TENS therapy is the go-to treatment for lower back pain)
- Shoulder (typically from rotator cuff injuries)
- Wrist
- Hip (Professionals highly recommend TENS therapy for post-hip surgery pain)
- Knee
- Ankle
Aside from treating painful areas or injuries, the iTENS and the Painmate TENS device can also effectively help with the following health conditions:
- Frozen Shoulder
- Sciatica
- Arthritis
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
- Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
- Bursitis
- Tendonitis
- Fibromyalgia (this happens all around the body; therefore, wireless devices can be highly effective)
Despite being able to treat similar conditions, the iTENS and the Painmate TENS device may have a few differences. iTENS users can switch between three different pad sizes when treating specific disorders. For example, users can use the large iTENS wing pads to treat broader areas like the back more efficiently.
iTENS vs the Painmate TENS Device: Electrode Pads
Electrode pad placement plays a vital role in TENS therapy. The correct sized pads with the right placement can help provide more effective electrical nerve stimulations. It would also help improve electrical conduction if the electrode pads could cover a sufficient surface area. The iTENS has interchangeable electrode pads, allowing for more effective treatments all around the body. Whereas the Painmate TENS device only has one set of electrode pad sizes. Treatments may differ, especially when treating an area that may need less or more electrode pads. For example, when looking to treat an elongated treatment area like the lower back going towards the thighs, iTENS users can use the long iTENS electrode pads. These pads can effectively and optimally treat conditions like sciatica. Furthermore, when treating highly flexible and movable areas like the ankle, iTENS users can use the iTENS small electrode pads.
The iTENS has more available pad sizes than the Painmate TENS device. Users can purchase additional interchangeable accessories from iTENS Australia. The three available iTENS pad sizes are:
- Large iTENS Wing Pads
- Small iTENS Wing Pads
- Long iTENS Electrode Pads
iTENS vs the Painmate TENS Device: Additional iTENS Features
Despite being very similar TENS devices, the iTENS does have additional vital features that help make it more convenient for users. When looking through the iTENS and Painmate TENS device controls, users would notice more options available in the iTENS app. Furthermore, the iTENS app also features various pre-set treatments that are optimised for specific injuries, body areas, and health conditions. For example, when using the iTENS app, users can select the “Sciatica” option when treating sciatic pain. This feature can allow users to begin their TENS therapy treatments with just a press of a button. Furthermore, this feature can benefit users who have limited electrotherapy experience. Users may now optimally treat themselves without needing professional help. Additionally, it is worth noting that the iTENS app is compatible with most iOS, Android, and Google devices; therefore, compatibility will not be an issue with the iTENS.
Is Electrotherapy Safe?
Electrotherapy with the iTENS or the Painmate TENS device is a non-toxic, safe, and all-natural pain relief method. Unlike some oral pain medications, TENS therapy devices do not have adverse side effects. Moreover, the mild electrical currents produced during TENS therapy cannot cause any harm. Therefore, using a personal TENS is machine entirely safe. Additionally, you can also use them throughout the day when pain symptoms begin to show. However, it is essential to remember to take 20-minute breaks in between sessions. Furthermore, users can confidently use iTENS from iTENS Australia because it has FDA clearance to be an effective and safe pain relief device. FDA clearance ensures users that these devices have been tested before public release. Despite being safe for use, people with cancer, epilepsy, history of seizures, heart problems, and cardiac pacemakers should avoid using TENS devices.
Conclusion
Without a doubt, individuals suffering from acute and chronic pain can significantly benefit from TENS therapy. The effects between devices may be similar; however, the iTENS may have a few advantages over the Painmate TENS device.
