The shoulder is one of the most movable joints in the body. It consists of the clavicle (collarbone), scapula (shoulder blade), and humerus (upper arm bone). In addition, it is a ball-and-socket joint that allows the arms a wide range of motion. It gives mobility of the arms and hands and stability for forceful actions like pushing, lifting, and pulling. Unfortunately, too much flexibility or overuse makes the shoulders prone to dislocation or injuries. Likewise, conditions that cause pain or limited motion develop, like the frozen shoulder. There are several treatments for frozen shoulder, including exercise or physical therapy, surgery, and non-surgical procedures like electrotherapy. A TENS machine for frozen shoulder is a non-invasive way to relieve pain and help restore the range of motion.
Frozen Shoulder: What is it?
Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It worsens over time and becomes hard to move. If you experience severe inflammation in the shoulder for several weeks, it can be a case of a frozen shoulder. Seek a doctor’s diagnosis to treat it properly. People with adhesive capsulitis have limited ability to move the shoulders voluntarily or passively through the help of others. The symptoms may begin gradually and last up to several months to years. In line with this, TENS or Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation is an e-stim device that sends electrical currents to the body to manage pain. A TENS machine for frozen shoulder helps relieve the inflammation until you heal over time. The iTENS from iTENS Australia is suitable for reducing frozen shoulder pain.
Stages of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulders occur when the joint’s capsule thickens and tightens, making them hard to move. The capsule is the connective tissue that surrounds the shoulder joints. It can expand and contract as the arm moves. In a frozen shoulder, the capsule swells, and scarring develops. As a result, the movement becomes stiff and painful. The condition may also occur after an injury or surgical procedure. A TENS machine for frozen shoulder can tremendously reduce pain during the recovery stage. In particular, frozen shoulder occurs in three stages:
- Freezing – Gradual pain develops, making the shoulder motion harder over time. The freezing stage can last from 6 weeks to 9 months.
- Frozen – Pain may decrease at this stage, but the stiffness remains. It can last for 4 to 6 months, while the movement is still restricted.
- Thawing – Shoulder motions slowly restore to normal or close to normal. This stage occurs between 6 months to 2 years.
TENS Machine for Frozen Shoulder
The iTENS is a TENS machine for frozen shoulder and other acute and chronic pain. A TENS machine delivers low-voltage electrical impulses to the nerves to reduce pain. The electrical pulses stimulate the nearby nerves to block pain signals from reaching the brain. In addition, it triggers the release of endorphins which are the body’s natural painkillers. In particular, the iTENS has a set of wireless electrodes connected to sticky gel pads. The electrode pads adhere to the skin in the painful area and deliver instant relief. Moreover, the electrical stimulation helps relax the shoulder muscles and nerves by increasing the blood circulation in the area. The increased supply of nutrients aids in faster healing of injured body parts or recovering from surgery.
Risk Factors of Frozen Shoulders
The sensation is usually dull or aching and worsens during the early stages. In particular, the pain emanates from the outer shoulder area and the upper arm. The TENS machine for frozen shoulder pain can stimulate the nerves and muscles to relax and improve the range of motion. Unfortunately, there are few studies on why frozen shoulders happen. However, medical specialists note that it typically happens at certain ages and conditions:
- Age – This condition is common to people between 40 to 70 years old.
- Sex – Women mostly experience frozen shoulders. It can result from hormonal imbalance.
- Surgery – Immobility from a shoulder injury or post-surgery can restrict shoulder and arm movements.
- Conditions – Frozen shoulders occurs more in people with diabetes. Other diseases include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Parkinson’s disease, and heart disease.
- Lifestyle – Poor diet, sedentary lifestyle or lack of exercise have a high risk for developing frozen shoulders.
iTENS: How to Use a TENS Machine for Frozen Shoulder
The iTENS is a wireless TENS machine for frozen shoulder using Bluetooth-capable electrodes. Operating the iTENS is quick and efficient. First, place the wireless electrodes over the pain area and turn on the device. Next, connect the electrodes to a smartphone app via Bluetooth. Finally, launch the app and select the treatment for shoulder pain. The device will begin stimulation immediately. In particular, the iTENS app features various remedies for specific body parts and conditions. The pre-set modes have fixed parameters to relieve each body’s pain optimally. TENS is also suitable for chronic conditions like arthritis, sciatica, fibromyalgia, bursitis, and ankle tendonitis.
The TENS machine for frozen shoulder is most effective with the correct pad placement. The wireless iTENS has wing-shaped gel pads that fit most body parts. In particular, the iTENS small wing kit is best for shoulder pain. Place the electrode pads over or around the shoulder area. The strategic placement can help optimise pain relief. Furthermore, you may customise treatment according to your desired settings. Through the manual operation mode, you can adjust pulse rate, pulse width, waveforms, and duration. By trying different intensities, you can discover the most therapeutic relief. You may start from the lowest setting and gradually increase it as your body adapts to the stimulation. However, ensure that you do not turn the frequency too high to avoid worsening the pain.
Benefits of a Wireless TENS Machine for Frozen Shoulder
The wireless iTENS is an excellent TENS machine for frozen shoulder. In particular, the wireless electrode pads enable you to move without inhibitions. The mild electrical impulses provide muscle relaxation, improving the range of motion. In addition, the gel pads are light and slim, making them comfortable and discreet. You can use the iTENS under the clothes while working or running errands without being noticeable. The iTENS pads are reusable and durable. Therefore, it is cost-efficient pain management for chronic pain.
A TENS machine for frozen shoulder is a non-invasive and drug-free alternative for pain relief. Using TENS does not cause adverse side effects from oral painkillers. Therefore, you can use the iTENS at the onset of pain. You may also use it many times a day as needed. In addition, they are beneficial for those recovering from injuries. Unfortunately, TENS is not advisable for particular circumstances. For example, do not use TENS during pregnancy except in the early stage of labour. Also, TENS is not suitable for people with cancer, epilepsy, heart diseases, and cardiac pacemakers. Most importantly, consult your physician or physiotherapist on the correct use of TENS. The iTENS is available for purchase without a prescription, and you may get it directly at iTENS Australia online.
