Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) can alleviate different types of pain. These include acute and chronic pain conditions. Specifically, people can utilise TENS therapy for muscle pain. It can significantly improve the quality of their lives because it offers a drug-free and non-invasive way to manage their discomfort. Consequently, they can receive relief and do simple everyday tasks. They can undergo treatment in pain clinics. Moreover, they can buy the electronic device for home use.
Typically, medical practitioners prescribe medications to reduce sore muscles. However, they often come with side effects and can be habit-forming. Thus, they or physical therapists usually recommend TENS therapy as a safe alternative. It is beneficial because it can manage other conditions, such as neuropathic pain, arthritis, and neck pain. The following sections will present more about TENS pain relief therapy, including its mechanisms of action and how to apply it effectively.
What is TENS Therapy for Muscle Pain?
TENS therapy for muscle pain is a natural method of pain relief. It is a drug-free, safe, non-invasive, and effective treatment option. This form of therapy utilises a portable electrical device that produces mild electrical pulses. TENS delivers the currents to targeted body areas. As a result, people experience reduced muscular aches and discomfort.
The TENS pain control has one or more sets of electrode patches. Individuals can buy a unit in a wired or wireless model. Wired TENS typically has two pads connected to the machine via cables. On the other hand, wireless devices use Bluetooth technology to connect the patches to the main unit. They can obtain these from pharmacies, local medical supply stores, or online retailers.
Users can adjust the settings or select pre-set modes depending on their comfort level and pain intensity. They can modify them safely at home. However, they should consult a healthcare provider before a single treatment session because the pain threshold and response to TENS therapy may vary from person to person. Also, professionals may further guide on correct TENS usage.
Causes of Muscle Pain
- Muscular discomfort can occur due to overusing or straining the muscles beyond their normal capacity. Typically, this happens during intense physical activities.
- Chronic stress, anxiety, or poor posture can lead to muscle tension, causing pain.
- Muscle aches often occur due to acute injuries like strains, sprains, or tears. These injuries can result from accidents, falls, or sudden movements.
- Some medications, such as statins, may cause muscle pain as a side effect.
- Insufficient fluid intake can cause muscle cramps. When the body lacks hydration, it can alter the balance of electrolytes, affecting function.
- Conditions like fibromyalgia can cause muscular aches due to an immune system malfunction.
Mechanisms of Action Behind TENS Therapy for Muscle Pain
There are various mechanisms of action behind TENS therapy for muscle pain. It involves the electrical stimulation of nerve fibres, helping modulate pain signals and promote pain relief. TENS delivers gentle electrical pulses to the affected area via electrode patches people place on the skin. Then, it can activate the pain-gating mechanism, which essentially blocks transmitting pain messages from going to the brain.
In addition, TENS can trigger the production of opioids within the body. Opioids, such as endorphins, are natural pain-relieving substances that bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. The electrical currents can stimulate these receptors, enhancing the pain-relieving effect. This mechanism promotes longer-lasting pain reduction.
Furthermore, electrical nerve stimulation can induce muscle contractions. Subsequently, this can help increase blood flow to the affected area. Improved blood circulation allows the delivery of oxygen and vital nutrients to the muscle tissues. Then, this reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Also, muscle contractions from TENS may relax stiffness and tension, increasing mobility and range of motion.
Benefits of TENS Treatment
People can receive various benefits from TENS treatment. Firstly, it can help manage a wide range of health issues. These include chronic pain conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and neuropathic pain. It can also aid acute pain conditions like labour pain, menstrual pain, and postoperative pain. Nevertheless, pregnant women must consult a doctor beforehand.
Secondly, TENS can avoid potential side effects associated with medication. It only has minimal side effects reported, such as temporary skin irritation. Thirdly, individuals can administer a session at home, providing flexibility and convenience in managing their muscular pain. Lastly, TENS is cost-effective when compared to traditional pain management methods.
How to Apply TENS Therapy for Muscle Pain
Generally, applying TENS therapy for muscle pain is simple. However, people must follow the guidelines for optimal results. To begin, they must identify the location of muscular discomfort. Then, they should clean the pain site with mild soap and warm water to ensure optimal electrode adhesion. Afterwards, they can remove the protective film from the electrode pads and place them on the skin.
Individuals must adhere to correct electrode placements to maximise the benefits of TENS. For lower back muscle pain, place the pads on either side of the spine. Similarly, position them on the muscles surrounding the shoulders or neck for aches in these body parts. Once they attach the electrode patches, they can turn the TENS unit on.
Adjust the settings on the TENS machine, starting with a low setting and gradually increasing if needed. Users can modify the pulse duration, intensity, or pulse amplitudes. There should be a pleasant tingling or pulsating sensation. They must undergo the therapy for only 20-30 minutes. If unsure about the appropriate settings or need guidance, consult a doctor. Turn the device off after the session.
Safety Considerations
When using TENS therapy, it is essential to consider various safety aspects. For instance, it is crucial to follow the instructions and guidelines from the manufacturer regarding the proper use of the TENS machine. Also, people should start with lower-intensity levels regardless of the pain intensity to prevent sudden shocks.
Moreover, users should always prepare the skin surface to minimise the risk of skin irritation or burns. Regularly checking the skin for any redness, allergic reactions, or discomfort during and after the TENS therapy session is also essential. Additionally, they must not administer this method of pain relief when sleeping or driving.
Conclusion
TENS therapy for muscle pain is a drug-free and non-invasive treatment option. It provides effective analgesia by sending low-voltage electrical currents to the nerves. Then, TENS interferes with pain signals and promotes the release of endorphins. Additionally, TENS can enhance blood circulation and reduce muscle spasms. TENS users can receive various benefits. One example is they can utilise the device for other types of pain. These include joint pain, menstrual cramps, musculoskeletal pain, and postoperative discomfort.
Also, applying TENS is simple. Individuals can begin by cleaning the skin and placing the electrode pads on the target area. Then, they can adjust the intensity and frequency of the electrical stimulation to cater to different comfort levels and specific pain needs. With its easy application and lack of side effects, TENS therapy provides a convenient and natural solution for managing muscular pain. Nevertheless, they must be cautious and recognise the safety considerations to ensure proper TENS usage.
