Information about TENS

What is TENS?
T.E.N.S stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. TENS is a drug-free alternative for managing pain. For the past twenty years, doctors have been prescribing TENS as an effective way to relieve pain. TENS offers many people safe comforting relief. It reduces and often even eliminates pain. It is FDA approved, and it is reimbursable by most insurance providers.

How Does TENS Work?
TENS was designed to relieve pain by sending gentle electrical impulses through the skin to the nerve fibers. This suppresses pain by blocking the pain signals before they reach the brain. TENS sends these gentle impulses through lead wires that are connected to electrodes. These electrodes are strategically placed at appropriate pain sights on the body. 

TENS is believed to work by two different mechanisms. First, electrical stimulation of the nerve fibers can block a pain signal from being carried to the brain. If the signal is blocked, pain is not perceived. Secondly, the body has its own mechanism for suppressing pain. It does this by releasing natural chemicals called endorphins in the brain which act as analgesics. TENS may activate this mechanism.

Because there are many different kinds of pain, and each individual is unique, pain relief varies from person to person. Some users experience pain relief only while the TENS unit is turned on. For others, relief continues for a length of time even after the unit is turned off. TENS is an excellent, non-drug alternative for chronic pain such as lower-back ache and arthritis. It is also useful in relieving acute pain associated with surgery, traumatic injury, and other conditions.

The TENS Unit
We offer advanced, pocket-sized, fully portable TENS systems designed to relieve both acute and persistent pain. The TENS provides several different modes of operation; this provides the user with a variety of treatment options. Because the TENS uses two channels, it can be used to relieve pain at two body locations. The TENS is about the size of a deck of playing cards, so you can wear it anywhere, at home, to work, or in your car. A convenient belt clip allows you to wear it on your belt or even inside your clothing.

What is the most effective way to use TENS?
To achieve the best results of TENS therapy, it is important to remember that TENS merely activates the body's own pain-fighting mechanism. Placing electrodes directly over or around the painful area delivers pain-blocking current to the nerves leading to that area. Some healthcare professionals have found that placing the electrodes along acupuncture points is also effective. Also, it is good to vary the placement of the electrodes each treatment to avoid skin irritation.

How long does it take for TENS treatment to produce results?
In most cases, studies show that it takes roughly 30 minutes for TENS treatment to begin to relieve pain. However, for conventional, high frequency TENS treatment, there is no set treatment limit. Some patients find hours of pain relief from short 30-to-60 minute sessions. Others use their TENS units for several hours a day or all day, depending on the pain generated by daily activities. Always use your TENS unit according to your physician's directions.

When can TENS treatment be administered?
TENS can be administered any time of day or night. It is recommended that TENS not be used while sleeping. This is simply because movement during sleep may cause electrodes to come off or be pressed into the flesh, causing skin irritation. However, always use your TENS unit according to your physician's directions.

Does TENS treatment have any risks or side effects?
Unlike surgery or prescription drugs, TENS is virtually risk free from injury, side effects or addiction. The low-volt electrical current delivered by the electrodes only penetrates the skin to the level of the nerve fibers, usually only one to two inches. This poses no danger to most individuals. However, those with cardiac conditions and/or pacemakers, and pregnant women should consult their doctors before using TENS. Also, neck and head pain that requires locating electrodes on these areas of the body should be conducted only with the consent of a physician. Use caution when you drive or operate heavy machinery.

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