Traditionally, healthcare professionals utilise Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) therapy to relieve various pain in adults. Nowadays, individuals can use it without medical supervision. Moreover, it has additional purposes like muscle strength and relaxation. A TENS massager is a handy electronic device that uses gentle electrical currents. People can operate it at home or anywhere they go discreetly. Stimulating the nerves can block pain messages from reaching the brain and help release natural painkillers, leading to less discomfort.
Individuals can visit a treatment facility or hospital to experience a TENS massage. Additionally, they can get this form of pain relief device by buying a unit online or in-store. Beforehand, they should check the customer reviews of different models to ensure they purchase a high-quality product. Also, they must understand the ins and outs of this innovative technology. Thus, the following sections will present what TENS is, the benefits it can provide, and how the massager works.
What is a TENS Massager?
A TENS massager is a portable electronic device. It offers natural pain relief by delivering low-voltage electric currents directly to the affected body areas. The medical treatment machine comes with a set of electrode pads. Users place them on their skin surface where relaxation is necessary. Typically, they can buy the massager in handheld form. However, they can also acquire a wireless unit for convenience.
People can attach the adhesive patches on various body parts, including the neck, back, shoulders, arms, and legs. It is a non-invasive method of pain relief, making it suitable for those who prefer to avoid oral medications or other more intrusive treatments. The massagers are compact and easy to use, with adjustable settings. This allows for customisation.
Furthermore, using TENS is generally safe. However, individuals must operate the massager properly by following the instructions of a health professional and the manufacturer. Pregnant women can utilise it to receive relief during labour, but they must exercise extra caution. Also, users should avoid placing the electrode pads on body sites with broken skin to prevent aggravation.
Brief History of TENS Technology
- 1960s: Usually, people credit the development of modern TENS technology to the neurosurgeon C. Norman Shealy. He found electric stimulation can help control pain by using low-voltage electrical impulses.
- 1970s: The machines became more widely available. In addition, medical professionals primarily utilised them in this decade to manage different types of pain in adults.
- 1980s: Individuals saw the development of portable TENS devices. Hence, it increased the accessibility and convenience of this pain management technique for at-home administration.
- 1990s: Using TENS expanded to physical therapy, rehabilitation, and aiding in labour pain during childbirth.
- 2000s: Technological advancements in TENS brought wireless and wearable units.
Benefits of Using TENS Massager
The TENS massager offers many beneficial elements. Firstly, it relieves pain and promotes healing naturally. This treatment method does not require users to take drugs or undergo needle insertion. Instead, it uses mild electrical pulses. Nevertheless, those self-administering TENS must follow the guidelines from healthcare providers and manufacturers.
Secondly, some TENS devices are wearable and discreet. Thus, people can use them while doing their daily activities without drawing attention to themselves. This is especially true for those with wireless units, allowing for on-the-go pain relief whenever necessary. Thirdly, using the massager has minimal risks. Hence, it is a safe alternative for those unable to tolerate medications or other forms of treatment.
Lastly, most TENS machines come with helpful features. For instance, the rechargeable TENS unit allows easy operation without constantly replacing batteries. Moreover, many devices offer various settings and modes for specific medical conditions and body parts. Furthermore, some massagers have heat therapy functions, providing a more comprehensive pain relief experience.
Treatable Conditions
TENS are widely recognised for their ability to help alleviate different health issues. One of these is chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, and lower back pain. Additionally, the massager can reduce acute pain conditions, like period pain and sports injuries. It can also lessen joint pain in the hands, wrists, knees, and shoulders.
Musculoskeletal pain is another treatable condition with TENS. Injuries, strains, or overuse of muscles are the common causes of this type of pain. Furthermore, the machine can relieve neuropathic pain. Nerge damage is usually the reason. People often experience shooting or burning sensations, which can be challenging to manage.
How TENS Massager Works
TENS massagers use mild electrical impulses to relieve pain and relax the muscles. The device sends the electrical signals through electrode pads attached to the skin. Users usually place these on or around the pain site of the body. Then, they can choose from different intensity, duration, and frequency settings. However, they should always begin with low levels to avoid sudden shocks.
One of the mechanisms of TENS is to block pain messages from reaching the brain by stimulating the nerves. This helps to provide temporary relief from various types of pain, including muscle soreness. Moreover, it can activate the production of endorphins. These natural painkillers help promote a sense of well-being. Endorphins also ease stress and anxiety, making TENS versatile for physical and mental health.
In addition, TENS massage units can improve blood circulation in the affected area. This means more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the muscles, helping them recover faster and reducing inflammation. Improved circulation also aids in flushing out toxins and waste products from the muscles, further supporting the healing process.
Main Theories at Work
TENS operates based on two main theories. One of these is the Gate Control Theory of Pain. It states that electrical stimulation from the massagers can close the gate in the spinal cord, preventing pain signals from reaching the brain. Also, it suggests that TENS devices can override the pain messages, providing temporary relief.
On the other hand, there is the Endorphin Release Theory. It proposes that TENS boosts the production of natural painkillers. Consequently, this results in pain relief and potential mood improvement. This theory suggests that TENS treatment can help the natural pain management mechanisms of the body.
Conclusion
The TENS massager is a revolutionary device that offers tremendous benefits for individuals seeking pain relief and relaxation. This compact and portable machine utilises low-voltage electrical impulses to reduce acute and chronic pain in adults. Some examples are menstrual cramps and arthritis. It is beneficial because it is a natural method of pain reliever. TENS does not need drugs or needles. Additionally, TENS units are wearable and discreet. Hence, people can use it with ease.
TENS stimulates the nerves and overrides the pain signals, providing immediate relief. Moreover, the massager can enhance the production of endorphins. Thus, it promotes a sense of well-being and relaxation. Furthermore, TENS helps improve blood circulation. The machine is a safe and non-intrusive alternative to traditional pain management methods, providing an effective solution for individuals seeking natural and drug-free relief. Those interested in buying wireless devices can check iTENS from iTENS Australia.
