Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free method of pain relief that uses low-frequency electrical impulses to stimulate the nerves. TENS therapy has been used for decades in the fields of physical therapy, sports medicine, and rehabilitation to help individuals with a wide range of conditions. This article will explore the underlying principles of TENS therapy, the benefits and risks associated with its use, and the various clinical applications of TENS therapy.
The underlying principles of TENS therapy: TENS therapy uses low-frequency electrical impulses to stimulate the nerves, which can help to relieve pain. The electrical impulses are delivered to the body through electrodes that are placed on the skin over the area of pain. The electrical impulses are generated by a TENS unit, which is a small, portable device that can be used at home or on the go.
TENS therapy works by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain. The electrical impulses stimulate the nerves, which sends conflicting signals to the brain, effectively “jamming” the pain signals. TENS therapy also increases the production of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body.
Benefits of TENS Therapy
TENS therapy has been found to be an effective form of therapy for a wide range of conditions. Some of the most notable benefits of TENS therapy include:
• Relief of pain: TENS therapy has been found to be effective in the relief of pain associated with conditions such as chronic back pain, arthritis, and neuropathic pain.
• Drug-free pain management: TENS therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free method of pain relief, which makes it a suitable alternative for individuals who are looking to avoid the use of pain medication.
• Increased mobility: TENS therapy can help to increase mobility in individuals with conditions such as arthritis, as the electrical impulses can help to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as improve range of motion and flexibility.
• Improved quality of sleep: TENS therapy has been found to improve the quality of sleep in individuals with chronic pain, as it can help to relieve pain and improve mobility, which can lead to a better night’s sleep.
Risks of TENS Therapy
While TENS therapy does have many benefits, there are also some risks and potential side effects associated with its use. These include:
• Skin irritation or discomfort at the site of the electrode pads: This can be particularly problematic for individuals who have sensitive skin.
• Risk of injury if the device is used by people with certain health conditions, such as heart problems or nerve disorders: Pregnant women or people with pacemakers should avoid the use of TENS therapy.
• Not all individuals may respond well to the therapy: some people may not find TENS therapy to be effective in relieving their pain.
• The results may not be as good as traditional exercises when used alone: TENS therapy is most effective when used in conjunction with other forms of therapy, such as exercise and physical therapy.
TENS therapy has been researched for various clinical conditions and has been found to be an effective form of therapy for some of them. Some of the most notable clinical applications of TENS therapy include:
1. Chronic pain management: TENS therapy has been found to be effective in the management of chronic pain conditions, such as chronic back pain, neuropathic pain, and fibromyalgia. TENS therapy can help to reduce pain by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain and by increasing the production of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals.
2. Osteoarthritis: TENS therapy has been found to be effective in the management of osteoarthritis, a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. The electrical impulses used in TENS therapy can help to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as improve range of motion and flexibility.
3. Postoperative pain management: TENS therapy has been found to be effective in reducing pain and improving mobility in the postoperative period. TENS therapy can help to reduce pain by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain and by increasing the production of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals.
4. Labor pain management: TENS therapy has been used as a non-pharmacological method for pain management during labor. It’s been found to be effective in reducing the perception of pain and the need for pain medication during labor.
5. Migraine and tension headaches: TENS therapy has been found to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines and tension headaches. The electrical impulses used in TENS therapy can help to reduce pain and muscle tension, which can help to prevent migraines and tension headaches.
Conditions Helped by TENS Therapy
TENS therapy is a pain killing treatment which involves the use of electrodes and a machine to transmit an electric current through the skin. It is not proven how this method works, however many patients have reported positive results from TENS therapy. Many doctors and physiotherapists in Australia recommend TENS therapy as a possible alternative to drugs, deep tissue massage and other types of treatments. Modern TENS machines often come with an EMS function which not only helps to target the source of the trauma, since EMS penetrates more deeply into the body tissues it can actually help to stimulate muscles, increase blood flower and rebuild torn and damaged body tissues.
Acute and chronic conditions helped by TENS include:
Acute Pain Conditions
• Broken Bones
• Childbirth Pains
• Dental Pain
• Fractured Ribs
• Joint Strain
• Muscle Spasms
• Post – Operative Pain
• Pre-Menstrual Pain
• Sporting Injuries
• Tendonitis
• Tennis Elbow
Other types of pain helped by TENS pain management include:
• Arthritis
• Back Pain
• Cervical (neck) pain
• Chronic Pain
• Diabetic Neuropathy
• Facial Palsy
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Ischemic Pain
• Leg Pain
• Lower Back Pain
• Migraine
• Organic Lesions
• Phantom Limb Pain
• Rheumatism
• R.S.I
• Sciatica
• Scoliosis
• Stroke
• Tension
TENS therapy seems to work well for some patients and is less effective for others and it varies between treatments. If you are considering TENS therapy we strongly suggest you consult with your doctor before starting any treatment. TENS is not suitable for some conditions, and it is best administered by a professional who can talk you through aspects such as TENS pad placement and the various programs and ways that a TENS machine can be used.
TENS has proved to be effective for many types of pain. It is commonly used during childbirth, after surgery, for bursitis, tension headaches, tendonitis, cancer, chronic wounds, arthritis, migraine headaches, injuries, and other painful conditions. Medical practitioners believe that the technique stimulates the body to produce endorphins which are natural painkillers. However, they do not claim that this therapy addresses the root cause of pain. Its primary use is to offer short-term relief while healing is occurring.
A TENS device comprises of an electric unit that is connected to electrodes. These are attached to the skin near the targeted area. When the device is switched on, a low-voltage current is delivered into the body. During therapy, the patient will feel a warm, tingling sensation.
A session usually lasts between 5 and 15 minutes. Treatment may take place as often as necessary according to the severity of the pain. TENS can best be described as an electrical massage. It is widely used by physiotherapists, massage therapists, and chiropractors. Portable systems are available so that patients can apply the therapy at home.
In the USA, there are over 100 different types of portable TENS machines which have received approval from the Food and Drug Administration. However, the public may not use them unless authorized by a medical practitioner. Some units deliver the electrical impulses via acupuncture needles. This method has to be performed by a qualified health care practitioner.
Research indicates that TENS therapy has shown some efficacy with cancer patients, especially those who have neuropathic pain which is related to nerve or tissue damage. In such cases, TENS works best when combined with medication. It has shown to be particularly helpful to relieve painful bones and muscles after major surgical procedures.
Patients who are allergic to adhesives may react adversely to the electrode pads. This therapy is not suitable for patients who have heart problems. Also, it should not be administered to people with implanted defibrillators, pacemakers, infusion pumps, or any other internal device that may malfunction due to the electrical current. If a woman suspects she may be pregnant, she should advise the practitioner because the effects on an unborn fetus are not yet known.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation is otherwise considered to be safe. Anyone applying the treatment at home should take care that the current is not too intense because it may irritate or burn the skin. Never place the electrodes near the throat, brain, heart, or over the eyes. Always ensure that you know how to operate the device correctly and that you have received instruction from a professional practitioner.
The Differences Between Muscle Stimulators and TENS Devices
Muscle Stimulators (also known as Electronic Muscle Stimulators-EMS)
Electronic muscle stimulation involves using a low voltage pulsing electronic current that targets motor nerves in order to cause them to rapidly contract and relax multiple times. The muscle tissue contracts when the low level electronic voltage passes into the fibers, and then relaxes as the voltage ends. This pattern continues over and over as the muscle tissue is stimulated and worked. This continual muscle stimulation helps to tone the muscles underneath the skin. It also increases blood flow to the muscles which aids in healing of torn or damaged tissues. EMS is most often used in conjunction with physical therapy or chiropractor treatments to relax the muscles and reduce pain and inflammation. The improved circulation brings more healing oxygen to the muscles and removes toxins to help with speeding up the healing process.
TENS Devices (also called Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulators)
The TENS device is similar to the standard EMS system, but it works somewhat differently. The TENS device also produces a form of electrical muscle stimulation, but it focuses only on the sensory nerve endings only to reduce pain associated with muscle spasms and injury. As the electronic current passes through the muscles, endorphins are released by the brain into the body to naturally reduce the pain that the patient may be experiencing. At the same time, the electrical current blocks any further signals to the pain receptors in the brain that the muscle is hurting so that the endorphins can do their job of healing that particular area of the body that is being treated.
Both EMS and TENS treatment are especially effective for anyone who is experiencing muscle atrophy from not being able to use a part of their body for a long period of time, such as a bedridden or handicapped patient. Muscle atrophy can also occur when someone experiences an accident, surgery or an injury that has caused them to become paralyzed or lose mobility in a part of their body. The benefits of both treatments are well worth the time that it takes to tone and heal muscle fibers in the body. It is also useful for anyone who experiences muscle spasms due to injury such as those that can occur as a result of a car accident or a sporting injury. Having the added benefit of being a useful tool for pain management has made EMS and TENS valuable treatment options that anyone can benefit from.