A Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation or TENS stim unit for pain is an electronic device that emits electrical currents. It functions by delivering the pulses to the body. Accordingly, this electrical stimulation works based on mechanisms to provide a form of pain relief. Nevertheless, using the TENS machine is straightforward. Initially, prepare the device and the skin where to place the electrodes. Next, adhere the electrode patches to the skin. Finally, power on the unit and adjust the settings.
Living with pain can be debilitating. Thus, many individuals are seeking pain management methods. Physical therapy and pain medicines are common. However, technological advancements have developed non-invasive methods of pain relief. TENS therapy has gained popularity for its ability to provide relief without needing medications or invasive procedures. This article will present the TENS stim device for pain, including how it works and how to use it.
What is a TENS Stim Unit for Pain?
A TENS stim unit for pain is an electrical device that sends electrical pulses to the nerve fibres. It streams the impulses through electrode pads attached to the skin. Physical therapists, pain specialists, health professionals, and pain clinics often recommend TENS devices. They suggest these effective tools for patients experiencing various pain or medical conditions.
There are two main types of TENS units: traditional and modern. Traditional TENS machines are usually simple, with basic controls. They typically utilise physical cables to connect the electrodes to the central machine. Meanwhile, modern TENS devices are often smaller and lighter. They usually come with digital displays, pre-set programs and wireless capabilities. Some also combine TENS with other therapies like Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS).
TENS devices can be purchased from various outlets. Medical supply stores, pharmacies, and online retailers are common places to find these machines. When buying a unit, it is essential to consider factors. It may include adjustable settings, user-friendly design, and portability.
Types of Pain Relieved by TENS
- Acute Pain: Sudden and usually sharp. It often results from menstrual pain, tension headaches, sports injuries, and surgeries.
- Chronic Pain Conditions: Persists for months and even years. It may include conditions like arthritis pain, fibromyalgia, and backaches.
- Neuropathic Pain: Caused by nerve damage and is often described as a burning sensation. It may involve peripheral neuropathy and diabetic neuropathy.
- Musculoskeletal Pain: A discomfort arising from bones, muscles, tendons, or ligaments. TENS is frequently used to relieve joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis pain.
- Muscular Pain: TENS therapy can manage muscle spasms, tightness, overuse, and injury.
How Does a TENS Stim Unit for Pain Work?
Firstly, the TENS stim unit for pain encourages the body to produce endorphins. Endorphins are natural chemicals in the body that act as natural pain relievers. It binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. Nevertheless, when the machine sends electrical impulses to the nerve fibres, it triggers the release of these endorphins. The activity induces feelings of well-being.
Secondly, the Pain Gate Theory is crucial in how a TENS machine alleviates discomfort. According to this mechanism, the electric currents can interfere with the transmission of pain signals to the brain. The nerve pathways have a limited number of signals they can handle simultaneously. The TENS unit floods these pathways with non-painful signals. Thus, it effectively blocks pain messages from getting through the brain.
In addition, the electrical stimulation from a TENS device can increase blood flow to the affected area. Increased circulation accelerates the healing process. It brings more oxygen and nutrients to the injured tissues and removes waste predictand toxins. As such, it helps reduce pain intensity and promotes tissue repair and recovery.
Benefits of TENS Therapy
Foremost, TENS therapy provides a natural method of pain relief. Instead of relying on medications or surgery, it uses electrical pulses to stimulate the nerves and manage discomfort. It allows individuals to avoid the drawbacks of drugs or invasive procedures. Adjustability is another significant advantage. Users can modify the pulse rate, amplitude, and pulse duration.
The portability of the device further enhances its appeal. TENS units are small and lightweight. It allows users to carry them and use the device wherever and whenever needed. Furthermore, TENS therapy is cost-effective over the long term. TENS units can be used multiple times and over several years.
How to Use a TENS Stim Unit for Pain
Using a TENS stim unit for pain involves a simple step process. Initially, ensure the device, electrodes, and cables (for wired) are all in good condition. Accordingly, locate the treatment region and prepare the skin in that area. Peel off the protective backing from the electrode and apply the pads to the skin. Placement is critical. Thus, it is essential to follow the proper electrode placement guide.
The electrodes are then attached to the TENS machine using the physical wires. Connect the electrodes to a smartphone via Bluetooth for wireless. Next, turn on the TENS unit, starting with the lowest setting. Gradually increase the intensity until a solid but comfortable tingling sensation occurs. There should be no pain or muscle contraction. Also, some advanced models have pre-set programs.
Throughout the treatment, the user should feel comfortable. If the sensation becomes uncomfortable, adjust the settings. The treatment session can last 15 to 30 minutes. After the treatment, turn off the TENS unit, disconnect the electrodes, and carefully remove them from the skin. Clean the device and store it according to manufacturer instructions.
Pad Placement Guide
First, pinpoint the exact location of the discomfort. Accordingly, ensure the skin where to place the pads is clean and dry. It allows for better adhesion and conductivity. Then, position the electrode patches. Generally, users can place the electrodes directly, on either side of the pain, or surrounding the pain.
Additionally, do not place the pads on sensitive areas of the body. It includes the head, eyes, mouth, chest, throat, bony regions, spinal cord, and broken skim. For optimal results, position the electrodes at least one inch apart. This spacing allows the electrical pulses to flow correctly through the painful area.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a TENS stim unit for pain is a valuable tool for many individuals. It is a wired or wireless device that emits electrical currents. It flows the pulses to the body via electrode patches placed on the skin. Consequently, these currents work in various mechanisms to provide analgesic effects. It interrupts the transmission of pain signals to the brain. It also triggers the body to produce endorphins, the natural painkillers. Additionally, the stimulation can increase blood circulation.
TENS extends benefits to uses. It is natural, adjustable, portable, and cost-effective. Furthermore, TENS therapy is versatile as it can relieve various types of pain. It can manage menstrual pain, fibromyalgia, peripheral neuropathy, osteoarthritis pain, and muscle spasms. Moreover, using the TENS unit is easy. Identify the treatment area, attach the electrodes, turn on the device, and modify the settings. Individuals who want to purchase a TENS machine may check the reputable online retailer iTENS Australia.
