TENS therapy is becoming increasingly popular due to the prevalence of pain issues. Most working adults in Australia suffer from one kind of pain issue or another. A 2020 study reports that 3.37 million Australians suffer from chronic pain. 68.3% of this number are of working age. This prevalence has many looking up “what is the best TENS machine to buy” for convenient and efficient pain management.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) administers mild electrical currents to the skin to relieve pain. A small, lightweight, battery-operated device produces electrical currents to self-adhesive electrode pads attached to the skin. Moreover, TENS is drug-free and non-invasive, and highly effective. These qualities make TENS therapy the most sought-after alternative to extensive pain medications and costly surgeries. Therefore, TENS devices such as the wireless iTENS from iTENS Australia are becoming more popular because they are effective, convenient and easy to use. Many consider the iTENS to be the definitive answer to the question, “what is the best TENS machine to buy?”
What is the Best TENS Machine to Buy – What Can TENS Treat?
TENS therapy is a convenient and ideal method for pain management and relief. Before looking up “what is the best TENS machine to buy” online, it is worthwhile to understand the many types of pain that TENS treats. The following classifications are not mutually exclusive, as some pains may overlap. Nonetheless, these classifications are adequate for a general understanding of pain:
- Chronic pain – these pains, unfortunately, become almost inevitable as we age. Chronic pains last for extended periods of more than six months. Many underlying health conditions cause chronic pain and may become debilitating if untreated.
- Acute pain – these pains last for a short duration before the body naturally heals them. Furthermore, temporary injuries and illnesses usually cause this type of pain. Nonetheless, some acute pains turn chronic if left untreated.
- Neuropathic pain – damage to the nervous system causes this type of pain. Such pains affect touch sensitivity and impede regular movement. In addition, nerve pains are typically sharp and stabbing sensations.
- Radicular pain – these are types of pain that radiate from the back or hip into the legs via the spine, also known as sciatic pain.
- Nociceptive pain – external trauma, injury and general tissue damage cause this pain. In addition, nociceptive pain is generally sharp and throbbing.
What is the Best TENS Machine to Buy – How Does TENS Work?
Understanding how TENS therapy works is essential before looking up “what is the best TENS machine to buy”. TENS machines work by applying low-voltage electrical currents from electrodes placed on the skin to stimulate the sensory nerves. Moreover, TENS therapy is non-invasive and manages pain through two fundamental functions: The Pain Gate Control Theory and Endorphin Release. Firstly, TENS therapy slows the transmission of pain sensations passing through specific nerve clusters in the spine. According to the theory, these nerve clusters act as the nervous system’s pain gates. Thus the brain receives fewer pain signals when electrical stimulation closes these gates. Moreover, TENS machines use pain gating when set to the sensory level or high-frequency pre-sets of 50 to 130 Hz.
Furthermore, TENS therapy’s second function induces the body to release more endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural pain-killer. These are natural chemicals that the body produces to inhibit pain sensations, relieve stress and calm the mood. In addition, TENS machines use this function at the motor level or low-frequencies of 10 Hz or less.
Many consider “what is the best TENS machine to buy” because the treatment uses natural means to manage pain.
The Best TENS Machine to Buy – the Wireless iTENS
The iTENS is one of a kind, the first wireless TENS device to be cleared by the FDA. This clearance means it has passed extensive medical device effectiveness and safety tests. Furthermore, this clearance allows anyone to enjoy TENS therapy through the iTENS without needing medical supervision and assistance. As a result, people can use the wireless iTENS device in the safety of their home, during a work shift or even while exercising. The iTENS from iTENS Australia is an innovative electrotherapy device that incorporates wearable technology with effective TENS therapy.
Moreover, iTENS uses a set of wireless gel pads that you can pair with your iOS or Android device via Bluetooth. This feature allows people access to the iTENS companion app. This app contains numerous pre-set options for easy access to a broad range of specific treatments for many pain conditions. In addition, iTENS uses rechargeable and energy-efficient lithium-ion batteries for uninterrupted therapy. These batteries allow the iTENS to last 24 to 36 hours on a single full charge. These features make the iTENS the ideal choice when considering what is the best TENS machine to buy.
Is TENS Therapy Safe?
It is prudent to consider if TENS is safe before deciding on what is the best TENS machine to buy. Fortunately, TENS is one of the safest methods for managing pain. The electrical currents are highly modulated and harmless. Unlike certain oral medications, TENS does not have the risk of adverse side effects. Thus people can use TENS therapy as frequently as needed. Many who suffer from chronic pains use TENS as a drug-free alternative to orally ingested analgesics. Moreover, health experts advise users to remember TENS therapy’s “30 in 30 out” rule. This rule means that users can use TENS machines as often as needed as long as they limit their TENS sessions to 30 minutes each and take a 30-minute break between sessions. This precaution lets users avoid irritating or overstimulating the skin.
The innovative iTENS device uses wireless electrodes to apply TENS therapy. Thus, avoiding wire breakage and other risks from damaged wires. Furthermore, people should also keep a few things in mind when considering “what is the best TENS machine to buy”. Consequently, TENS machine use is not advisable for those with the following:
- Epilepsy
- Heart ailments
- Early pregnancy
- Blood clots
- Cancer
- Have electrical implants such as cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators
- Have metallic implants such as rods and screws for fractures and bone injuries
Conclusion
Pain conditions are a prevalent issue among working adults and seniors in Australia. Many who suffer from these pain conditions consider “what is the best TENS machine to buy” to manage their pain and discomfort better. Fortunately, the iTENS from iTENS Australia is readily available for anyone to use. In addition to pain conditions, the iTENS also helps stimulate the muscles to relieve pain from injuries and soreness. The iTENS is a flexible device that can fit most joints and body parts. In addition, people can easily apply for and use iTENS without needing medical supervision. The device is thin, light, and comfortable and connects via Bluetooth to your smartphone. This connectivity allows the user access to the innovative iTENS app for a broad range of pre-set options. Buying an effective TENS device such as the iTENS is a worthwhile investment for a pain-free and healthier life.
