Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, or TENS, is a natural method of pain relief. It helps alleviate chronic pain, contractions during labour, and other acute pain. Also, it is suitable to apply on various body parts, including the hands. Using the TENS unit for hands is easy. Users should attach the electrode patches to the palm, the back of the hand, or the wrist. Then, they should adjust the settings or choose an appropriate pre-set mode for a personalised experience.
Medical professionals, such as occupational and physical therapists, develop a treatment plan for hand pain. This includes wrist exercises, heat and ice therapy, and a TENS machine. The electrical device keeps the pain under control by stopping pain signals from getting to the brain. Also, it triggers natural painkillers. Consequently, these reduce discomfort and promote healing. The following sections will present more about what TENS is, how it works, and how to use it effectively.
What is a TENS Unit for Hands?
A TENS unit for hands is a small, battery-operated device. It emits mild electric currents. Delivering these electrical pulses to the hands helps manage pain and improve mobility. This a non-invasive and drug-free method of pain relief. Thus, users do not need to worry about adverse reactions commonly associated with traditional treatment methods.
The electronic device is lightweight. This means people can easily carry it around. Moreover, they can utilise it whenever necessary. Its compact size also makes it convenient for users to target specific pain areas in their hands. TENS machines come with electrode pads. The patches have adhesives that stick to the skin. Some require wires, while some models are wireless.
TENS units are adjustable. Hence, individuals can control the intensity and frequency. Other machines have pre-set modes that target different types of pain. These include hand pain, bursitis, joint pain, fibromyalgia, and neck pain. Additionally, they can modify the duration of each session based on their needs. However, they should still refer to the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Causes of Hand Pain
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Compression of the median nerve in the wrist. This condition results in numbness and tingling in the hand and fingers.
- Arthritis – Inflammation of the joints, such as osteoarthritis. These cause discomfort and stiffness in the hands.
- Tendinitis – The tendons in the hand become inflamed. It is often due to overuse or repetitive movements.
- Fractures – Broken bones in the hand can cause swelling and severe pain.
- Nerve damage – This can be from an injury or medical condition. The damage leads to discomfort and weakness.
- Trigger finger – A condition where the finger gets stuck in a bent position, causing stiffness in the hand.
How a TENS Unit for Hands Works
The TENS unit for hands works in various ways. Firstly, it sends mild electrical pulses to the sensory nerves. The mechanism blocks messages from reaching the brain. Users can utilise high frequencies to activate this. They can set it from 50 to 120 Hz. The effects can be felt immediately. However, these may diminish from the body once they remove the electrode patches.
Secondly, TENS stimulates the release of analgesic chemicals in the brain, such as endorphins. These natural painkillers help reduce the perception of pain in the hands. People can utilise low frequencies from 2 to 10 Hz to trigger this response. Typically, low-frequency settings may take a while to feel the full effects. Nevertheless, the pain relief can last longer even after the TENS machine is turned off.
Lastly, using a TENS device for the hands can also help to improve circulation and reduce inflammation in the target area. The pulses from the unit can help increase blood flow. Subsequently, this mechanism reduces swelling in the hands. This can be especially beneficial for those who suffer from conditions such as arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Main Theories at Work
TENS has two main theories at work. The first theory is the Gate Control Theory. It suggests the impulses TENS emits can override the pain messages travelling to the brain through the spinal cord. Essentially, this closes the “gate” for pain perception. This theory also proposes the stimulation of large sensory fibres by TENS can inhibit the transmission of pain signals.
The second theory is the Endorphin Release Theory. It posits that electrical stimulation can trigger the body to release its natural painkillers. These chemicals can bind to the opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, reducing the perception of pain.
How to Use a TENS Unit for Hands
When using a TENS unit for hands, select the appropriate size of adhesive electrode patches. These must fit comfortably on the palm and back of the hand. Clean the area thoroughly before applying the pads to ensure they stick well. Then, determine the correct electrode position. Afterwards, place the electrodes directly on or near the pain site.
Turn the TENS device on once it is set up correctly. Adjust the electric pulses to the desired intensity and frequency level. Start low to prevent getting electrical shocks. Users should feel a tingling or buzzing sensation, but it should never be painful. Be sure to monitor the skin for any irritation or redness. Discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur.
After 20-30 minutes of undergoing TENS therapy, turn the machine off. Carefully remove the electrode pads. Clean the hand to remove any residue from the gel. Also, store the unit and pads in a safe and dry place to ensure they are ready for future use. Regularly check them for wear and tear. Individuals must replace them as needed.
Proper Pad Placement
The correct TENS electrode placement is crucial for effective treatment. Attach the patches to the palm or back of the hand to target the specific pain site. Additionally, users can utilise units they can wear around the wrist. Ensure the pads are at least one inch apart to avoid overlapping the electrical signals.
For hand pain radiating from the fingers, place the electrode patches on the top and bottom of the hand. Position them near the base of the fingers. Adjust the placements to find the most effective position for relief. Experiment with different patterns or areas for maximum relief and comfort.
Conclusion
The TENS unit for hands is a highly effective and non-invasive pain management method. It has adhesive electrode patches that users can stick to the skin surface. This form of electrotherapy delivers low-voltage electrical currents to the affected area. Then, it activates pain gating, endorphin release, and blood flow-enhancing mechanisms. Therefore, the machine is ideal for people suffering from hand discomfort. Nevertheless, they can utilise it for other conditions like arthritis pain and period pain.
Using the TENS medical treatment is simple. The person must place the electrode pads on their palm, the back of their hand, or their wrist. They can adjust the settings until they satisfy their pain relief needs. Let the TENS device do the work as it delivers gentle electrical pulses to alleviate pain and improve hand functionality. With its ease of use and proven effectiveness, TENS offers a convenient and drug-free option for managing hand pain and promoting overall well-being.
