Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, also known as TENS treatment, is used to relieve acute and chronic pain by the application of electric impulses to the skin over nerves. A TENS unit is designed to apply impulses of different wavelength frequencies and intensity to relieve pain by having a numbing effect on the responsible nerve.
How TENS Works
Affecting the receptors in the nerve endings, TENS treatment reduces pain by altering the receptors and messengers responsible for sending and receiving pain signals. According to MayoClinic.com, TENS therapy electrodes apply impulses to nerve pathways which aid in controlling and relieving certain types of pain. TENS produces numbing effects by activating opioid receptors in the nerves. This reduces excitation of neurons that transmit pain information from the body.
Features
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator machines consist of a power unit similar to a small cell phone or radio with lead wires to which the electrodes attach. The unit, made to clip on the belt for convenience, has control buttons to control the signal intensity and the frequency wavelength. The proper adjustments are what determine the effects of the treatments.
Benefits
TENS treatment relieves pain from muscle strains, tendon and ligament injuries, chronic pain syndromes and a myriad of other conditions. According to Patient UK, TENS machines are popular for certain painful conditions. This would indicate that they might have some usefulness to reduce pain. How much pain it relieves will vary from person to person.
Misconceptions
The popularity of electric muscle stimulation using TENS units for toning muscles has increased with the introduction of commercially available TENS machines. The success of these devices for toning is debatable. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, These devices might be able to strengthen or firm muscle. However, as of 2010, its use for weight loss, or for toning abs does not have FDA approval. In addition, the FDA reports receiving complaints of burns, irritation and pain after the use of some these devices. There also have been reports of injuries because of electronic interference with pacemakers and other medical implants.
Warning
Use only FDA-approved devices when purchasing a TENS unit. Stop using the device and see your doctor if you experience burning, irritation or severe pain. Do not use around anyone with a pacemaker or other implanted electrical medical devices.
If you are receiving treatment after an injury, follow the prescribing doctors orders and inform him if you notice any changes in pain severity or irritation.
