TENS, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, is a nonsurgical technique to relieve pain. A TENS unit can be used for severe nerve pain by directly targeting where the pain is.
History
The TENS procedure stems from the Gate Control Theory, which was developed by Dr. Ronald Melzac and Dr. Patrick Wall in 1965. The theory proposed that electrically stimulating nerves reduced pain by closing "a gate mechanism in the spinal cord."
Procedure
TENS units have outgoing wires with electrodes attached to the end. These electrodes are attached to the patient's skin at the source of pain and a mild electrical current passes through the electrodes to the nerves.
Duration
The ACS states the duration of a TENS session varies on the severity of the pain, though they usually last five to 15 minutes.
Availability
While some patients receive TENS treatment during a physical therapy session, the Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of TENS units at home. The ACS notes that to obtain a TENS unit, the patient must have a prescription.
Possible Complications
While a relatively safe procedure, the ACS states if the electrical current is too intense, it can burn or irritate a patient's skin. TENS should not be used by people who have implanted pacemakers, defibrillators or infusion pumps.
