Painful conditions, like neuropathic conditions, require pain control. An option is using Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation TENS for neuropathic pain in adults. TENS is a natural method of pain relief. It utilises a portable device that emits electrical currents to activate the natural pain-relieving mechanisms of the body. Utilising TENS as a treatment of pain provides various benefits. For instance, it is non-invasive and drug-free. Also, it can manage other types of pain. These include postoperative pain and primary dysmenorrhea.
Nerve pain can be a burden on people because it is debilitating. Damage or dysfunction of the nerves can be the cause of discomfort. Fortunately, they can undergo TENS therapy in hospitals. Moreover, they can buy personal units and operate them at home. Applying TENS is simple. Users must place the electrode pads on the skin to administer a treatment session. To learn more about electric nerve stimulation, the article will present it, its mechanisms of action, and its benefits.
What is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation TENS for Neuropathic Pain in Adults?
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation TENS for neuropathic pain in adults is a natural form of therapy. It involves using a portable device that delivers low-voltage electrical currents to the skin. The purpose of TENS is to stimulate the sensory nerves. Consequently, it can alleviate discomfort and aches. Nevertheless, people must consult a doctor beforehand for maximum safety.
Individuals can buy a TENS unit in wired or wireless versions. The former requires a cable to connect the device to the patches. Meanwhile, the latter usually has Bluetooth connectivity for convenience. Moreover, the electrodes can come in different shapes and sizes. As a result, it allows users to target specific body parts. For instance, larger electrodes may be used for broader areas like the lower back to target sciatica.
Professionals utilise TENS as an alternative or adjunct therapy to manage nerve pain. Its regular use can improve the daily living and quality of life for individuals suffering from different neuropathic conditions. These include diabetic neuropathy, phantom limb pain, or post-herpetic neuralgia. Interested buyers of TENS devices can check iTENS from iTENS Australia for reliable units.
Research and Systematic Reviews on TENS Therapy
- The Cochrane Collaboration researched the effectiveness of TENS. It included randomised clinical trials. They concluded that TENS provided short-term pain relief for chronic low back pain but had limited effects in the long term.
- A review was published in the Journal of Rheumatology that aimed to determine the efficacy of TENS therapy in treating rheumatoid arthritis. It found that TENS therapy had modest but statistically significant pain reduction effects.
- Neuromodulation: Technology at the Neural Interface published a systematic review. It concluded that TENS therapy demonstrated a beneficial effect in reducing phantom pain and stump pain, leading to improved quality of life for amputees.
Mechanisms of Action of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation TENS for Neuropathic Pain in Adults
Using Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation TENS for neuropathic pain in adults can activate various mechanisms of action depending on the settings. One of these is delivering low-voltage electrical impulses through the skin to the underlying nerves to trigger endorphin release. Endorphins are natural painkillers that help provide relaxation. People can activate this mechanism by selecting low frequencies (less than 10 Hz).
In addition, TENS sends mild electrical currents to the target area for pain gating. This method helps interrupt the pain signals sent to the brain. According to the Gate Control Theory of Pain, non-painful electrical stimulation can help close the “pain gates” in the spinal cord. Then, this prevents the transmission of pain messages. Users can utilise high frequencies (more than 50 Hz) for this.
Furthermore, TENS has a neuromodulatory effect on the peripheral nerves. Stimulation can modify nerve excitability and decrease the hyperexcitability associated with neuropathic pain. This means that TENS can help regulate the abnormal firing of nerves that leads to pain. This mechanism of action contributes to the effectiveness of TENS in providing pain relief.
Frequencies and Intensities
TENS frequencies are the rate of electrical impulse delivery. They typically range from low to high. Low frequencies are suitable for chronic pain management. On the other hand, high frequencies are often more appropriate for acute pain management. By altering the frequencies, people can tailor TENS to address various types of pain.
Meanwhile, TENS intensities determine the strength or power of the electrical current. Individuals can use low intensity for sensitive areas or those with a lower pain threshold. Those with more severe pain can use a high intensity of application for maximum pain relief. Nevertheless, they can consult a doctor for further guidance.
Benefits of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation TENS for Neuropathic Pain in Adults
People who administer Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation TENS for neuropathic pain in adults can receive many benefits. Firstly, they can enjoy the non-invasive and drug-free approach that TENS provides. This means that they do not need needles or medication, reducing the risk of side effects or adverse reactions. Thus, they can get perceptible tingling sensations from 20 minutes to hourly sessions. It ultimately depends on their chronic pain condition.
Aside from chronic pain control in people, TENS can manage other types of pain. These include labour pain, primary dysmenorrhea, and sports injuries. Incorporating TENS into daily routines can improve the health-related quality of life and overall well-being. Users can observe the difference in pain intensity once they apply TENS daily.
Another benefit of TENS is its customisable settings. This feature allows individuals to personalise their pain management experience. TENS machines typically offer various modes and intensity levels. Those with a wireless device can utilise a mobile app to adjust the pulses according to their preferences and needs. Then, they can control conditions efficiently.
Potential Risks Associated with TENS Therapy
TENS therapy is generally safe. Nevertheless, various levels of risk are present when operating the device. For instance, incorrect use can lead to skin irritation or burns. It can occur if the intensity is too high. Thus, carefully following the instructions is vital. Doing so ensures appropriate electrode placement and settings.
Also, individuals with certain medical conditions must avoid TENS. They should consult a doctor first before a single trial of TENS therapy, as it may not be suitable for everyone. Those with pacemakers, implanted defibrillators, epilepsy, or specific cancer should refrain from using a TENS device without medical supervision.
Conclusion
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation TENS for neuropathic pain in adults is a natural pain reliever. Different clinical trials showed significant pain reduction using this technique. Thus, it is a viable alternative or complementary therapy to traditional pharmacological approaches. TENS delivers low-voltage electrical currents to the skin. It stimulates the nerve fibres and alters pain perception by blocking pain signals. Moreover, it can enhance the release of endorphins. Subsequently, it treats chronic pain conditions and improves quality of life.
Relevant studies show that TENS provides numerous benefits to its users. For instance, it reduces analgesic consumption of medications, which can have harmful side effects and potential for addiction. Moreover, eligible studies concluded that TENS can manage different conditions. These include acute pain conditions, like primary dysmenorrhea and labour pain. Furthermore, users can personalise their treatment experience. Its regular application can improve the well-being of adults living with neuropathic pain and other conditions.
