In recent years, Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) machines have become increasingly popular among people from all age groups as an effective way to manage pain. These small, portable devices use electrical currents to stimulate muscles and nerves, providing targeted pain relief. They provide a great alternative to medication for instant pain relief.
So how exactly do simple but effective machines work? Well, it’s fairly simple. The devices are designed to deliver electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin near the area of pain or injury. The currents disrupt pain signals to the brain while also triggering the release of endorphins, which are natural pain relievers. This dual effect makes TENS machines a great option for managing many different types of acute and chronic pain.
Many of use now use TENS units to provide pain relief for a wide range of conditions, including:
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- Pain in both the neck and shoulder
- Lower back pain
- Arthritis in joints such as the knees or hands
- Sciatic nerve pain radiating down the leg
- Fibromyalgia
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Understanding How TENS Machines Block Pain Signals
To understand how TENS therapy provides pain relief, it helps to first understand how our body experiences pain.
Pain signals travel from the site of injury along nerve pathways to the brain. For example, a sore knee joint will send pain signals up the leg to the spinal cord, which relays them to the brain.
The electrical stimulation of TENS activates nerve fibers that close the “pain gate” in the spinal cord, preventing some pain signals from reaching the brain. Endorphins released by the brain also reduce the intensity of any remaining pain signals that get through.
By interfering with this pain signaling process, TENS blocks the perception of pain that would normally alert the brain. The result is a reduction in your discomfort.
Choosing the Right TENS Unit
With so many TENS machines on the market, it can be tricky choosing the right device for your needs and budget. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Power source – Rechargeable battery units offer portability, while plug-in units don’t require charging. Consider when and where you’ll use the device.
- Channels – Dual channel machines allow you to stimulate two areas simultaneously for added pain relief.
- Controls – Some units offer preset programs while others allow full manual intensity adjustment. Choose what suits your tech comfort level.
- Electrode options – Larger, longer-lasting electrodes may be preferred for convenience. Disposable electrodes can be cost-effective if changed frequently.
- Warranty – A minimum 1-2 year warranty provides assurance of durability. Watch for limitations on replacements.
- We recommend – Our recommended TENS machine is the Kinetik Wellbeing Dual Channel TENS Machine, which we keep in stock for same day shipping to customers placing orders through this website,
Consult your doctor or physiotherapist for guidance on selecting a high-quality device appropriate for your expected usage and pain symptoms.
The portability and ease of use of TENS machines offer significant advantages over pain medications. Let’s explore the top 5 benefits of using a TENS unit:
1. Effective Pain Relief
The electrical stimulation provided by a TENS machine has been clinically proven to reduce pain associated with various conditions. For those suffering from chronic pain, the units offer an alternative to reliance on medications long-term. The intensity and duration of relief will vary based on settings used, but many experience a significant decrease in their pain levels.
2. No Side Effects
A major perk of using a TENS unit is the lack of side effects. Medications commonly used for pain like NSAIDs or opioids come with potential gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, kidney and other risks. TENS machines have no known side effects when used as directed, making them an incredibly safe method of pain management.
3. Affordable Treatment
While TENS machines used to be quite costly, improved technology has made them affordable for most budgets. Quality FDA-approved units are now available in the £25 to £100 price range. Considering the cost of prescription pain medications and potential medical treatments, TENS machines are a budget-friendly option.
4. Portability
The compact size of TENS units allows for easy portability compared to bulky devices of the past. The small controller connects wirelessly to electrode pads that can be placed where needed on the body. This makes it simple to use a TENS machine at home, work or on-the-go without disruption. The portability makes it easy to access quick pain relief whenever flare-ups occur.
5. No Risk of Addiction
For those needing ongoing pain management, there is no risk of developing dependence or building tolerance from extended TENS machine use. The same can’t be said for commonly prescribed narcotic painkillers and muscle relaxants. TENS therapy can be used as-needed long-term without worry of addiction.
How to Use a TENS Unit
Using a TENS machine is a straightforward process once you understand the basic steps:
- Choose electrode placement – Electrodes can be positioned near the source of pain or along the pathway of nerves causing discomfort. Common placements are on the lower back, neck, knees, shoulders, hands and feet.
- Attach electrode pads – Self-adhesive pads connect the electrodes to the skin. The pads contain conductive gel to allow electrical current to penetrate the skin effectively.
- Adjust settings – TENS machines allow you to control the intensity and pattern of electrical stimulation to suit your needs. Start at a low setting and gradually increase intensity to a level that provides pain relief without discomfort.
- Use regularly – Consistent use provides optimum pain relief results. A session can last 10-30 minutes as needed to manage pain. Daily use helps reduce flare-ups over time.
While individual results will vary, most people find TENS therapy provides significant pain relief with routine use. It’s easy to incorporate sessions into your daily wellness routine.
Combination Therapy Options
For enhanced pain relief benefits, TENS units can be combined with other therapies:
- Heat or ice – Use heat packs or ice at the pain site before a TENS session to increase circulation or reduce inflammation.
- Massage – Pre-treatment massage helps muscles relax to receive electrical currents more effectively.
- EMS – Electric muscle stimulation units contract muscles, complementing TENS pain blocking effects.
- Acupuncture – Acupuncture can align with TENS to activate natural pain relief mechanisms in the body.
- Medications – Under a doctor’s supervision, certain medications may be used with TENS for short-term pain flares.
Discuss combination therapies with your doctor to determine if they are appropriate for your circumstances.
Is a TENS Unit Right for You?
TENS therapy offers a flexible, affordable way to manage many types of acute and chronic pain. The units can be used standalone or combined with other treatments for enhanced relief. Speak to your doctor to find out if TENS is a good option for your pain symptoms. Proper guidance will help you select an effective device and use it safely.
With quality FDA-approved devices now accessible for home use, TENS machines empower you to take control of your pain. Their many benefits make them a staple therapy for improving function and quality of life when pain strikes.
Photo by Anthony Cunningham for Zoom Health
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