The four ligaments in your knee include the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL). These ligaments connect your thighbone to your shine bone and increase the stability of your knee. Knee ligament sprain or tears are common sports injuries. Your collateral ligaments prevent your knee from bending inward or outward. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), your MCL is the most likely to be injured than the LCL. Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulators (TENS) are sometimes used to treat MCL injuries. Follow these guidelines to properly use your TENS unit.
Step 1
Test the battery pack of the TENS unit to make sure it is fully charged, according to Drugs.com. Turn the control knobs to "Off" before beginning TENS therapy.
Step 2
Clean your shoulder skin with rubbing alcohol. Make sure your skin is dry. Clean your electrodes with soap and water if they have been previously used.
Step 3
Place a small amount TENS gel on the bottom of each electrode to help the electric current transmit through your skin. Avoid applying too much gel.
Step 4
Place the electrodes on the inner part of your knee. Place one electrode on the lowest, inner portion of your thighbone, above your knee. Place the second electrode on the highest, inner portion of your shinbone, below the knee. Tape electrodes to your skin to prevent the electrodes from falling off.
Step 5
Connect the electrode wires to the TENS unit. Make sure your connections are correct.
Step 6
Use the settings recommended by your doctor. Keep the TENS unit on your skin for the length of time recommended by your doctor. Attach the TENS unit to your belt for long-term use.
Step 7
Use soap and water to clean your skin and electrodes after treatment. Replace the unit battery with a charged battery. Place the used battery on your charger.
Step 8
Follow your doctor's additional rehabilitation instructions to ensure a full MCL recovery.
Tips and Warnings
- Do not use TENS unit if you are submersed in water. Reduce your setting if you experience muscle twitching.
Things You'll Need
- TENS unit
- Rubbing alcohol
- TENS gel
- TENS charger
