Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Physiotherapy or Physical Therapy (PT) are pain management methods for muscle strengthening and treating chronic illnesses. Physiotherapy is ideal for relieving both acute (short term) and chronic (long term) pain disorders and various pain conditions such as backache, shoulder discomfort, tennis elbow and many more. The pain management treatment is made possible by using a physiotherapy TENS machine, like the wireless iTENS unit available at iTENS Australia.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) Physiotherapy
TENS physiotherapy is a non-invasive treatment that utilises a low voltage electrical current to inhibit the sensation of pain. A physiotherapy TENS machine is a compact, battery-operated pain relief device that stimulates the nerve fibres through a series of mild electrical impulses via electrode pads. Moreover, it works by transmitting small electromagnetic currents via the skin to interrupt and block pain signals from entering the brain while also assisting in releasing endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural pain-fighting hormone that can also improve mood.
Therapy with a physiotherapy TENS machine is based on the Gate Control Theory of Pain. The theory states that the spinal cord has a gating mechanism or “neural gate” that controls the passage of pain signals. Furthermore, these neural gates would then close and prevent the pain signals from reaching the brain during the TENS physiotherapy treatment. Thus, resulting in the decrease and (in most cases) the complete negation of the pain felt. This treatment is very beneficial, especially for those suffering from chronic pain syndrome.
Chronic Pain Syndrome (CPS) with a Physiotherapy TENS machine
A physiotherapy TENS machine can be a valuable tool for people suffering from pain. Pain is the human body’s natural reaction to illnesses and injury. Typically, pain heals by itself. However, there are some cases where pain can linger long after the illness or injury is long gone. If the pain lasts for more than three months, you may be suffering from chronic pain. Furthermore, people that suffer from chronic pain can gain a condition called Chronic Pain Syndrome (CPS). CPS is when a person suffering from chronic pain can gain additional conditions such as depression and anxiety. Having CPS can negatively impact the daily life of an individual. The most common causes of CPS are:
- Arthritis and other joint pains
- Backaches or back pain
- Headaches
- Muscle strains and sprains
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Fibromyalgia
- Nerve damage
- Lyme disease
- Broken bones
- Cancer
- Acid reflux or ulcers
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Endometriosis
- Recovery from surgery
A person can use a physiotherapy TENS machine for reconditioning, movement pattern training, development of nerve impulses, and muscle strengthening. Therefore, it is a beneficial device for those who suffer from CPS or chronic pain conditions. The iTENS wireless unit at iTENS Australia can take pain relief using a physiotherapy TENS machine to the next level.
The iTENS Device as a Physiotherapy TENS Machine
Physiotherapy TENS machines are very effective, but traditional devices require you to be stationary when in use. On the other hand, the iTENS devices are lightweight and are built with convenience in mind. You can conduct TENS physiotherapy even while doing your regular activities or just staying at home. These devices can assist in lessening discomfort sufficiently for you to accomplish your tasks more effortlessly.
The iTENS physiotherapy TENS machine is an FDA cleared completely wireless TENS therapy device, the world’s first in fact. Therefore, it is a medically recognised device with ground-breaking Bluetooth-enabled wireless technology that seamlessly connects to your iPhone or Android smartphone via the iTENS app. Alternatively, you can also manually access the settings through the iTENS device itself. Moreover, you do not need a prescription to purchase this approved over-the-counter, drug-free way of combating chronic pain. It aims to combine convenience and technology in order to improve the quality of life.
How to Use the iTENS Physiotherapy TENS Machine
The wireless iTENS physiotherapy TENS machine alleviates pain or induces muscular contractions via sticky electrodes pads. Placement of these adhesive pads are directly on your skin where the pain location is. The electrodes send electrical impulses to your system once powered on. The frequency and strength of these pulses can be modified with ease as needed, and these impulses can prevent the pain signals from reaching our brains. A single treatment usually takes 15 to 40 minutes, wherein you will experience a tingling sensation. TENS pain management therapies can be used about 2 to 3 times a day. However, make sure to take 20-minute breaks in between sessions.
You may follow these guidelines on using the iTENS device:
- Peel the protective cover from the iTENS gel pads.
- Place the sticky electrode pads on clean, dry skin.
- Switch the iTENS unit “On” by pressing the button on the centre of the device until the LED lights blink.
- Connect the device with the iTENS app via Bluetooth.
- Launch the app select your desired treatment. Tap the body part (feet, shoulders, etc.) or conditions (arthritis, fibromyalgia, etc.) to start your desired TENS therapy.
- Alternatively, you can set your parameters under the Manual mode. It is best to start with the lowest frequency and slowly work your way up towards optimal pain relief.
- Once the session ends, turn the machine “Off” before carefully removing the electrode pads from your skin.
- Store the iTENS unit and its electrode pads in a clean, dry space.
Furthermore, there are some safety precautions when using a physiotherapy TENS machine. You should avoid TENS therapy when you are in the early stages of pregnancy, have an electronic or metal implant (such as pacemakers), and are epileptic.
Conclusion
When conducting TENS therapy sessions using a physiotherapy TENS machine, you may want to visit a clinic if you are unsure or want to get the most out of your therapy. Seeking assistance from a skilled healthcare practitioner can always be helpful, but now it has become optional because of innovations like the iTENS device. However, a physician, physiotherapist or healthcare specialist can instruct you on how to use the medical equipment, where to place the electrode pads and determine what frequency settings that are ideal for you. A physiotherapist can evaluate your health status and assist you with any physical issues within your muscles, bone, cardiovascular system and chronic conditions that could have developed through an accident or injury or had complaints throughout most of your life.
The iTENS machine is straightforward, and instructions will come with the device. Conducting therapies alone or in conjunction with other treatments is possible due to the iTENS’ flexibility. Some physiotherapists may advise you to rent or loan a physiotherapy TENS machine to help you relieve pain, or you can buy it on your own and get guidance from them on the most suitable conditions for your health issue. The iTENS wireless unit is the most cost-effective option that does not sacrifice effectiveness and still keeps your convenience in top priority.
