TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a non drug way of relieving pain in joints and muscles and some types of chronic pain. Acute pain can also be treated with TENS and is usually combined with other treatments or exercises. Using this means of pain relief is safe and effective.

How Does TENS Work?

Electrical stimulation is delivered by the machine to nerves in the skin, hence the name ‘transcutaneous’. These stimulations are pain free and do not have any side effects. They in turn then stimulate nerve fibers that are in the nerve endings in the skin and block the transmission of pain signals to the brain. In addition an increase in the production of endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers, is also increased and the skin becomes warmer which helps to increase mobility and decrease stiffness.

How Do you use a TENS Machine?

Patches are attached to the skin and the TENS machine, called a stimulator, creates the current which is directed through the patches. The base units are battery powered and portable and the patches vary in size depending on where they are to be used. For instance a specially designed patch that is long and thin can be used on the lower back. The person using the machine is in complete control of the level of stimulation.

Which Types of Pain do TENS Machines Work On?

Pain in the lower back, arthritis, joint, muscle and nerve pain. It is not effective for all pain and the degree of relief varies from person to person. It is not suitable for headaches, chest or abdominal pain. You should always consult a doctor or other medical practitioner before use as some people, for example those with a pacemaker or who suffer from epilepsy should not use TENS.

How Should you Adjust the Stimulation?

The intensity of the stimulation should be determined by starting with a low intensity and increasing it until an effective level is reached. The amount of stimulation varies with the location of the pain and the individual who is using the machine. Pain relief lasts after the machine is turned off and most people will use the machine for around 30 minutes at a time once or twice a day.

Can TENS be Used During Labor?

TENS can be used for pain relief during labor and many hospitals have TENS units for hire. It should be used before labor becomes too intense to stimulate the release of endorphins which help to relieve the pain. Usually four electrodes are place on the back and connected to the machine.

The woman in labour controls the device and can increase the stimulation as needed. TENS is used in two ways during labor. A low pulse rate is used to encourage endorphin stimulation between contractions and a high pulse rate to block the pain is used during a contraction.

Conclusion

If you have chronic pain and would like a drug free method of relief the use of a TENS machine could be ideal for you.

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