Some devices play a crucial part in pain management. They help people to manage pain and reduce the use of opioid medicines. A TENS machine is a small medical device that delivers electrical pulses to the body to manage pain. It is used by millions of people all over the world and has proved to be effective in relieving various types of pain, such as backache, joint pain, arthritis etc.
THE POPULARITY OF TENS MACHINES
TENS machines are becoming increasingly popular in the pain management industry. These devices use a small electrical current to stimulate nerves, which can block pain signals to your brain and reduce the sensation of pain. They are electronic devices that deliver electric current through electrodes (small pads) placed on or near painful areas. Electrical stimulation delivered by TENS machines is effective for treating chronic and acute low back pain, musculoskeletal injuries like sprains and strains, and fibromyalgia symptoms such as muscle aches and stiffness.
It’s also used for pelvic floor rehabilitation after childbirth or surgery to repair incontinence issues like urinary leakage caused by stress or urge urinary incontinence. There isn’t much research available about how effective e-stim is at rehabilitating the pelvic floor muscles following childbirth or other surgeries. It is safe for use during pregnancy when used correctly and under appropriate supervision from a qualified healthcare professional.
PAIN MANAGEMENT
TENS machines are used to manage various types of pain, such as:
- Chronic pain (e.g., back pain)
- Acute pain (e.g., post-operative)
- Cancer-related pain
- Nerve pain
- Sports injuries
TENS MACHINE BENEFITS
- TENS machines are used for a wide range of health and wellness issues. They can effectively treat chronic pain, muscle spasms, inflammation, post-operative pain and even headaches.
- They have also been shown to reduce stress and anxiety and treat insomnia.
HOW DO TENS MACHINES WORK
A TENS unit is a small hand-held device that produces electrical impulses to stimulate nerves. These impulses block the pain signals going to the brain, which helps to relax the muscles and relieve the sensation of pain. It also stimulates the body to release endorphins – natural chemicals that block pain and create a sense of well-being. A TENS machine delivers low levels of electrical pulses through thin electrodes (small discs) inserted into your body by attaching them to the skin with tape or gel pads – similar to those on an electrocardiogram (ECG). The resulting stimulation helps reduce pain and relaxes muscle spasms while increasing blood flow.
USES OF TENS MACHINES
It can be used by anyone who suffers from chronic pain, muscle spasms, arthritis, back pain, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome or sciatica. It helps people who suffer from low back pain by providing localized relief in the area that needs it most. The use of a TENS machine is widespread in treatmenting many conditions, including pelvic floor dysfunction, incontinence and more. It’s also used as part of physical therapy after surgery or injury. It is safely used for 30 – 60 mins up to four times a day.
As we have seen, there are many benefits to using a TENS machine. The most important thing is that it should be used responsibly and only under medical supervision. If you do not have other medical conditions, consider trying them out to relieve pain.