Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) are popular kinds of electrotherapy because they can provide natural pain relief and muscle growth, respectively. A TENS and EMS massage machine is a device that uses low-voltage electric currents to stimulate the nerves and the muscles. It works by triggering the pain gate mechanism, endorphin production, and involuntary muscle contractions. To use one, start by applying electrode pads to the target areas and adjusting the settings accordingly.
Electrotherapy has been gaining popularity for self-care and wellness treatments. In particular, TENS and EMS treatments are notable since they provide non-invasive treatments for various conditions. Moreover, people can buy these machines without prescriptions online or in pharmacies. Nevertheless, safe use is crucial. This is why consulting a medical professional is recommended before using these machines. This article will present information on TENS and EMS units, how they work, and how to use them.
What is a TENS and EMS Massage Machine?
A TENS and EMS massage machine is a battery-operated electronic device for pain massage therapy. It sends low-voltage electrical impulses to the body that can provide effective treatment of pain issues and stimulate muscle contractions. This machine can help with various issues ranging from sore muscles to chronic pain conditions.
TENS and EMS units are commonly used in medical settings, such as hospitals, pain clinics, and physical centres. People can buy personal TENS and EMS products online or in physical stores. They are typically composed of a control unit and electrode pads. Traditional models use wires to connect these. Meanwhile, wireless units utilise Bluetooth technology to lessen restrictions on movement during the session.
These electrotherapy devices typically have adjustable settings to customise the treatment session depending on their health condition. Pre-set programs for massage frequencies are also common with these devices. These are tailored to help with tight muscles and improve poor circulation. Moreover, the electrode pads also come in various shapes and sizes to suit different body parts. Some items may also come with spare electrodes.
Treatable Conditions
- Sports injuries: sprains, strains, and muscle soreness from poor posture, daily activities, athletic training, or accidents.
- Body aches: neck pain, leg pain, knee pain, hip pain, elbow pain, foot pain, and many others.
- Arthritis: inflammation or swelling of the joints leading to reduced mobility and joint pain. There are many types, including gout, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. It can affect both adults and children.
- Fibromyalgia: a chronic condition that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain, tenderness, and fatigue.
- Paralysis: the inability to make voluntary muscle movements due to injuries or underlying conditions. It can affect specific parts or the entire body.
How Does a TENS and EMS Massage Machine Work?
A TENS and EMS massage machine uses electrical impulses to trigger body mechanisms for the benefit of the user. TENS therapy targets nerves to provide effective pain relief. High-frequency TENS currents can trigger the pain gate mechanism and induce the spinal nerve fibres to block pain signals from travelling to the brain. This is particularly useful for severe aches from acute pain conditions.
On the other hand, low-frequency TENS currents can prompt the production of endorphins. These are natural painkiller hormones that bind to opioid receptors for a reduction of pain. It can also help reduce muscle inflammation and promote a better sense of well-being, which can be crucial during rehabilitation. Meanwhile, EMS can target key muscle groups and induce involuntary muscle contractions. This can help with muscle rehabilitation by improving muscle growth and performance.
TENS and EMS combo units can also increase blood flow to their target areas. Consequently, improving blood circulation can have beneficial effects, such as aiding in healing sports injuries. Typically, these also have massage modes and other stimulation programs to help with muscle tension, similar to an actual massage experience.
Benefits of Using the Device
There are several benefits to using a TENS and EMS combo machine. Firstly, it provides non-invasive and drug-free treatments for several purposes. This can help individuals avoid the risks of surgeries and injections. It can also reduce the intake of medicines, which can have adverse side effects.
Secondly, it can help improve performance with less effort. Although it is not a replacement for exercise, EMS treatments can stimulate muscles that normal exercise might not be able to. Lastly, using a combo unit can be a cost-effective option since many units are durable and reliable for long-term use.
How to Use the TENS and EMS Massage Machine
Using a TENS and EMS massage machine is a straightforward process. Users should start by applying the adhesive electrodes to the target area. Afterwards, they may turn the power on and adjust the settings accordingly. It is important to note that individuals should start on low-intensity levels and gradually increase them as needed to prevent electrical shocks or discomfort.
The operator may set a timer to inform them when the session duration should finish. TENS therapy sessions should not last more than an hour. Meanwhile, EMS sessions should not exceed 20 minutes. Once the prescribed period is over, they may turn the combo machine off and remove the electrode pads.
It is safe for people to use TENS multiple times daily. However, EMS sessions should be limited to once or twice a week due to the higher levels of electric stimulation used. Moreover, individuals can consult a medical practitioner to advise them on how to properly use their unit. This is a crucial measure for those with pre-existing conditions that may be incompatible with electric stimulation, such as epilepsy and heart disease.
Pad Placement Guide
Proper electrode placement is essential when using TENS and EMS machine units. For pain relief, the ideal application areas are on muscles near the source of the aches. Meanwhile, for muscle stimulation, attach the pads to target muscle groups. For example, people can place the pads on the quadriceps for knee injury rehabilitation.
Users must also be careful and avoid sensitive areas to prevent adverse reactions. This includes the spinal cord, throat, chest, and head. It is also best to avoid skin patches that are irritated, infected, or broken. This is because the electric currents may worsen the condition.
Conclusion
A TENS and EMS massage machine is a therapeutic tool that can replicate massage actions for beneficial effects. It uses low-voltage electrical currents to the nerves and muscles using externally applied electrode pads. Individuals can use the adjustable settings or select a preset mode after applying the pads to start a session. Users must remember that electrode placement is key to maximise the results. Moreover, consulting a healthcare professional can help ensure safety and provide more insight before using electrotherapy.
TENS provides pain relief by triggering the nerves to block pain signals or produce endorphins. This can address various acute and chronic pain conditions for temporary relief. Meanwhile, EMS induces involuntary muscle contractions for muscle strengthening and growth. This can help individuals recover from sports injuries and paralysis. With a TENS and EMS machine combo machine, individuals can reap the benefits of both non-invasive and drug-free treatments using one unit.
