T.E.N.S. is an acronym for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. They are small battery powered devices designed to relieve post-operative, acute, and chronic pain. TENS are similar size wise to an iPod. TENS units are safe, drug free pain management that reduces pain medication needs and supplements other pain control treatments. TENS is indicated for peripheral nerve pain, not centrally derived pain. TENS machines are prescription only devices. Usually they have attachments for one's pants making them easy to travel with.
TENS units are often used along with additional non-operative treatments such as Physical Therapy, Physiotherapy, Pain Management, Chiropractic Treatment, Spinal Decompression, or Manipulation Under Anesthesia.
How Do They Work?
A TENS machine transmits small square electrical pulses, which are then transmitted to the underlying nerves. The fundamental components of a TENS unit are the electrodes, a highly advanced computer chip, and an electrical battery source. The small amount of electricity is transmitted through the computer component then to the electrodes, which transmits the electrical waveform through the skin to the underlying nerves.
The user can personalize the pulse frequency, which is the strength of the electrical current given to the electrode (this should be accomplished in conjunction with the prescribing provider).Typically the prescribing provider will show the patient how to use the device and show any advisable setting options.
What issues are helped with TENS Machines?
Neck Pain, Back Pain, Arthritis, Sciatica, headaches, Muscular Strains, TMJ Disorder, Radiculopathy, pain from herniated discs, mid back pain, upper back pain, tendonitis, Sports Injuries, bursitis,
TENS units will not cure a disease or pain problem. TENS units do not have curing value. It is a symptomatic treatment which suppresses pain sensation.
Application of a TENS Unit
Electrodes are placed on or near the area of pain. Relaxing pulses are sent from the electrodes underneath the skin and along nerve fibers. The current travels through the electrodes and into the skin stimulating specific nerve pathways to produce a tingling or massaging sensation that reduces the perception of pain. The pulses suppress pain signals to the brain. TENS Machines also encourage the body to produce higher levels of its own pain killing chemicals called Endorphins.
What time frame does it take for a TENS Unit to start working to relieve pain?
It takes about thirty minutes or less to begin to work. Some people use their TENS unit throughout the day off and on. It's not typically recommended to be used continuously. It is best to utilize for one to two hours, then take off for a bit.
What does a TENS experience feel like when it's turned on?
The device produces a tingling sensation but should not be painful.
Who Should Not Use a TENS Machine?
- Persons using a CARDIAC PACEMAKER
- Has any form of malignancy,
- Various conditions where circulation is impaired.
- Persons with a heart condition.
- By someone with epilepsy
- Around the head
- With the electrodes placed on the neck near carotid
- It may not be used transcerebrally across the head,
- Not over the carotid sinus(where the jaw meets the neck), over metal implants or in conjunction with sleep apnea or heart monitors.
Be aware that TENS machines provide symptomatic treatment only and will not cure disease.
What are potential adverse effects with using TENS Units?
Users of TENS machines experience significant pain relief by and large. Some patients note that their skin is red where the electrodes are placed.
How can I obtain a TENS Unit?
One needs a prescription from a medical provider such as a chiropractor or an MD/DO for a TENS Machine. When you receive a TENS Unit, the machine will be set to optimally manage your pain condition and personal instructions will be given on its use. The settings should not be changed without undergoing the instruction.
The electrodes are placed on the skin where the pain is being experienced. It is important that you learn how to:
-Correctly put on the electrodes -Operate the Unit -Change the Batteries -Vary the controls and Settings -Set the proper duration and intensity of the stimulation
How well do they work?
For some chronic and acute pain patients, a TENS machine provides pain relief that can last for several hours. For others, a TENS Unit may help reduce the amount of pain medication needed.
Research on TENS
Few quality research studies have been done on the use of TENS for pain relief. The research that exists is somewhat controversial. Anecdotally however, patients often rave about the pain relief felt. In addition to chiropractic treatments, physical therapy, or pain management treatments, the results tend to be excellent. They also work well in the post-operative setting.
Conclusion
Despite the lack of hard scientific data backing up TENS unit efficacy, they are mainstream for pain control and extremely safe. Ask your provider if a TENS machine will assist in pain relief for your condition.