People with pain usually ask their doctors what the best way to treat pain is. There are a variety of treatments or programs available for pain management, one of them is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). TENS reduces the pain felt in the back, shoulders, arms, legs, and feet. TENS is a form of therapy that uses low-voltage electrical impulses on the body’s nerves to block or reduce pain. People with acute or chronic pain usually ask: are there TENS unit risks?
A TENS machine is a small portable device composed of electrodes with sticky gel pads. The iTENS is a wireless TENS device that is Bluetooth-capable. The centre disc that connects the wing pads is controllable via Bluetooth connection with a smartphone. Are there TENS unit risks with iTENS? The electrode pads of iTENS deliver the electrical impulses to the nerves through the skin. The electrical sensation causes the sensory nerves to block pain signals from reaching the brain, reducing pain perception. The electrical stimulation creates a tingling or buzzing sensation upon use, but it is not uncomfortable. You can increase the intensity up to a level that feels strong yet still comfortable.
TENS Unit Risks: Precautions
In particular circumstances, it is not advisable to use a TENS machine. There are TENS unit risks for women who are pregnant. A TENS unit is helpful during the early stages of labour but not during pregnancy. There are also TENS unit risks for people with cancer, epilepsy, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), heart diseases, and people with cardiac pacemakers or defibrillators. Additionally, do not place electrode pads on the head and the throat. This type of placement may cause acute hypotension or lower blood pressure. It may cause redness or skin irritation to some. If it occurs, switch the device off before carefully removing the pads from the skin. Avoid using TENS more than the recommended time (20-60 minutes). Lastly, do not use TENS while driving, sleeping, or near water.
TENS unit therapy is a non-invasive form of therapy and is generally safe without the typical side effects of oral medications. Taking precautionary measures is vital in keeping the TENS unit risks minimal. You may check the complete information regarding the proper use of the machine to prevent further damage in the user manual or the iTENS app. Furthermore, the app comes with a Pre-set mode for different treatments and placement guides, making it more convenient and hassle-free. Visit a physician or physiotherapist for proper guidance on the use of a TENS machine.
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