Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, or TENS electro, is a technique used for pain management. It utilises an electronic device that sends electrical currents through electrode pads attached to the skin. TENS therapy works based on the pain gate mechanism and the Endorphin Release Theory. Furthermore, using a TENS unit is relatively straightforward. Prepare the device and the treatment area. Accordingly, attach the adhesive electrode to the skin. Turn on the TENS machine and customise the settings.
Dealing with chronic pain or acute pain can be challenging and overwhelming. Fortunately, there are various methods of pain relief available. Medications are common. However, they may come with unwanted side effects. As a result, individuals seek alternatives to manage discomfort. One promising solution is the TENS therapy for pain relief. It is a safe and effective pain management tool. The following sections will present electrotherapy TENS, how it works, and how to use the TENS unit.
What is TENS Electro?
TENS electro is a therapy technique that involves using an electrical device emitting electrical pulses. It streams the impulses via electrode patches placed on the skin. Accordingly, pain clinics, physical therapists, and health professionals commonly recommend TENS therapy. It is often used by individuals suffering from types of pain or medical conditions.
The TENS units come in two primary types: traditional and modern. Traditional TENS devices are generally larger and designed for use in a clinical setting. They often have physical wires and may feature basic settings. Meanwhile, modern TENS devices are more compact and user-friendly. It makes them suitable for personal use at home or on the go. These machines include wireless connectivity and rechargeable batteries.
Nevertheless, both types offer several features. Most TENS machines have adjustable settings. It allows users to control the pulse rate, amplitude, and duration. Additionally, many modern TENS units come with sets of electrodes that can be reused multiple times. It makes the therapy cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Some advanced models also have pre-set programs.
History of TENS Therapy
- The origins of TENS therapy trace back to ancient times when physicians used electric fish to treat discomfort.
- The exploration of electricity for therapeutic purposes gained momentum by the 18th and 19th centuries. It leads to the development of early electrical devices.
- The formal introduction of TENS as a therapy emerged in the 1960s. It was when researchers began to understand the analgesic mechanisms of TENS.
- In the 1970s, TENS therapy experienced a significant surge in popularity among healthcare providers.
- Technological advancements throughout the 1980s and 1990s led to the development of more sophisticated TENS units.
- Modern TENS therapy continues to evolve over the years.
How Does TENS Electro Work?
First, TENS electro encourages the body to produce endorphins. Endorphins are natural chemicals in the body that act similarly to pain-relieving drugs but with no side effects. The electric currents from the TENS unit stimulate the nerve fibres. As a result, this triggers the release of endorphins. It reduces the sensation of discomfort and provides a natural, drug-free form of pain relief.
Second, the therapy works through the Pain Gate Theory. According to this theory, the electrical signals from the TENS device can effectively “close the gate” to pain messages in the spinal cord before they reach the brain. The TENS machine sends fast signals that keep the nerve pathways busy. It leaves fewer resources for pain signals to get through. Thus, this mechanism helps in reducing the perception of discomfort.
Furthermore, the electrical stimulation helps improve blood flow to the targeted area. The electrical pulses cause the blood vessels to dilate, increasing circulation. It accelerates healing by bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the body tissues. Additionally, TENS units can send electrical impulses in low (acupuncture-like TENS) and high (conventional TENS) frequencies.
Benefits of TENS Treatment
TENS treatment is natural. Instead of relying on invasive procedures or pharmaceuticals, TENS utilises the own mechanisms of the body. It eliminates infections, recovery times, side effects, and dependency issues. Additionally, TENS therapy is versatile. It can be applied to acute pain and chronic pain conditions. It can address conditions like muscle pain, postoperative pain, arthritis pain, labour pain, phantom pain, and diabetic neuropathy.
The adjustable nature of TENS further enhances its effectiveness. It allows users to find the optimum setting for their pain relief. Furthermore, TENS therapy is cost-effective. Once the initial investment is made, the ongoing costs are relatively low.
How to Use TENS Electro
Using a TENS electro machine involves a few straightforward steps. Firstly, ensure the TENS unit is fully charged or has fresh batteries. It is crucial for smooth and uninterrupted therapy sessions. Next, locate the treatment area and prepare the skin. Attach the electrode patches to the skin. Following the proper electrode placement is crucial in this step. It ensures a safe and effective therapy.
After securing the pads, turn on the TENS device. Start with a low intensity and gradually increase until a solid but comfortable tingling sensation is felt. The idea is to find a level that feels therapeutic without causing discomfort. Nevertheless, some advanced TENS units have pre-set programs for specific types of pain. Thus, choose the program that directly targets the discomfort.
The duration of each session can vary, but generally, 15 to 30 minutes per session is a good starting point. Individuals may adjust the duration depending on their personal comfort and the advice of a healthcare professional. During the session, users may change the settings if necessary. After the treatment, turn off the TENS device and carefully remove the electrode patches from the skin.
Pad Placement Guide
Foremost, identify the target area where pain relief is needed. Accordingly, clean and dry the skin before placing the electrode pads. It is essential to place the pads directly on or surrounding the painful area for localised pain. Placing the pads along the nerve pathways can be more effective for broader or diffused pain.
Additionally, always ensure the pads are at least one inch apart to distribute the current evenly. The size of the pads can also influence the effectiveness of the therapy. Moreover, do not place the electrodes on the head, eyes, mouth, throat, chest, spinal cord, bony regions, and broken skin.
Conclusion
In summary, TENS electro therapy is a valuable and effective treatment option for managing discomfort. The history of TENS traces back to ancient times, and modern TENS treatments evolved over the years. Nevertheless, TENS therapy utilises an electronic device that emits electrical currents. It works by blocking pain signals, prompting endorphin production, and improving blood flow. The TENS unit can also deliver electrical pulses in low (acupuncture-like) and high (conventional) frequencies.
Furthermore, TENS treatment offers various benefits. It is natural, versatile, adjustable, and cost-effective. The device can manage acute and chronic conditions. Moreover, operating the TENS machine is simple. Begin by preparing the device and the treatment area. Then, attach the electrodes adhering to the pad placement guide. Finally, turn on the TENS unit and modify the settings. Use the device for 15 to 30 minutes. TENS machines are available in the marketplace, including the online retailer iTENS Australia.
