Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a form of electrotherapy primarily used for pain relief. While traditionally used in medical settings, TENS for home use are also available for those seeking convenient relief. It uses electrical stimulation to trigger the pain gate mechanism and endorphin production. A benefit of using TENS is that it can provide versatile treatment for many pain conditions. It also has minimal risks and complements other treatment methods.
TENS machines are easy to use, with user-friendly interfaces and portable designs. They provide targeted relief using electrodes that deliver the electrical pulses to the skin. Moreover, people can buy them without prescriptions. However, consulting a medical professional before using TENS is recommended. They can advise how to use the machine to maximise their benefits and ensure safety. This article will present information on how TENS works, its benefits, and where to buy a TENS unit.
How a TENS for Home Use Works
A TENS for home use is a medical device that sends low-voltage electrical currents to the sensory nerves. TENS machines are electrical devices that many people use in medical settings, such as hospitals and pain clinics. Due to advancements in technology, people can also use these in various locations.
TENS works as a pain management method by using electrical stimulation to trigger mechanisms in the body for effective pain relief. They come with adjustable settings, which enable users to experience versatile treatments. Using low frequencies can induce the production of endorphins, which are the natural painkillers of the body. They can provide effective pain relief and promote a better sense of well-being.
Meanwhile, high-frequency stimulation triggers the spinal nerve cells to block pain signals from reaching the brain. This alleviates pain quickly and significantly reduces the levels of pain intensity. High frequencies can also stimulate vasodilation, improving blood flow to the target area. It can help with relaxing sore muscles and healing injuries.
Main Theories at Work
The exact mechanisms of how TENS provides relief have not been fully explained. However, some theories explain how it works:
- Gate Control Theory of Pain: proposes that electrical stimulation from TENS can trigger non-painful nerve fibres to close the “gate” to pain messages travelling to the brain. It is also known as the pain gate mechanism. However, it only lasts a few minutes after treatment.
- Endorphin Release Theory: suggests that TENS can induce the release of endogenous opioids. These hormones bind to the pain receptors. The elimination of pain lasts for hours after the session with this analgesic effect.
Benefits of TENS for Home Use
There are several benefits of utilising TENS for home use. Firstly, it is a cost-effective option for people with chronic pain conditions. Owning a unit reduces the trips to their healthcare provider for a treatment session. It can also help reduce the intake of oral medications, which can save on costs in the long run.
Secondly, TENS is an adjunct therapy that fits well in a broader treatment plan. It complements many other treatment modalities. Thirdly, TENS provide non-invasive and drug-free relief. It has minimal risks compared to surgery and intake of pain medications. Moreover, it does not cause dependency or require recovery periods after treatment.
Fourthly, TENS machines are convenient and portable devices that people can use whenever needed. It is easy to self-administer a TENS treatment session, particularly when using wireless TENS machines. Lastly, TENS is a type of treatment that works with various types of pain. It is highly customisable and can provide targeted relief by adjusting the placement of the electrode pads.
Types of Pain TENS Can Help With
TENS therapy is a method of pain relief that is effective for several conditions. It works on acute pain conditions, such as period pain, labour pain, and post-operative pain, by providing faster pain relief than other methods. Moreover, it provides chronic pain relief for ailments like fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.
TENS also works with common pain in body parts. This includes back pain, neck pain, elbow pain, hip pain, leg pain, foot pain, joint pain, and muscular pain. Lastly, it helps with neuropathic conditions, such as sciatica, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Where to Buy TENS for Home Use?
People can choose where to buy a TENS for home use from several options. Healthcare professionals may recommend TENS units to their patients for their treatments. In some cases, they may have devices available for purchase in the clinic.
Another option is to go to physical stores, such as pharmacies or medical supply stores. Many of them have TENS products that individuals can choose from. A benefit of buying from a physical store is that people can immediately use the device after purchase. Additionally, they can physically see and touch the item. Some stores may even allow them to try the device.
Most people browse online platforms and websites when looking for a TENS machine. It is a convenient method that provides individuals with a wide selection and easy access to customer reviews. Moreover, individuals can easily compare prices between different retailers to get the best deal. However, it is crucial to consider the features of the TENS unit before buying one. It ensures they can get a device that suits their needs.
Features to Consider
The features of a TENS can vary depending on its cost. Hence, it is important to identify which features would suit the condition best. Firstly, the TENS device should have adjustable settings. It should provide sufficient frequency and intensity ranges for treatment.
Secondly, it should have electrode pads appropriate for the body parts the user wishes to target. Moreover, having hypoallergenic gel pads is particularly helpful for those with sensitive skin. Lastly, consider the battery life of the device. Ideally, it should have enough for multiple sessions. Individuals may also consider getting a unit with rechargeable batteries for convenience.
Conclusion
A TENS for home use is a small, battery-powered device that can help people with various pain conditions. It works by triggering mechanisms in the body for relief, such as the pain gate mechanism and endorphin production. Moreover, it provides versatile treatments using adjustable settings and electrodes that people can apply to strategic areas for targeted relief. It is a non-invasive and drug-free treatment that many people benefit from since it also complements other treatment options.
People can buy TENS machines online or in physical stores. Some clinics may also have TENS machines in stock for patients to purchase. However, those without prescriptions or recommendations for their healthcare providers should consider the features of a TENS unit before buying one. These include the battery life, settings, electrode pads, and device type. Those interested in a wireless TENS unit may consider the iTENS from iTENS Australia.
