TREATMENT OVERVIEW
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a non-invasive, drug-free pain relief method. It uses a small, battery-powered device to send low-voltage electrical currents through electrodes (sticky pads) placed on your skin near the source of your pain. This gentle current helps block pain signals from reaching your brain and can also stimulate the release of endorphins, your body's natural painkillers.
HOW IT WORKS
A TENS unit works based on two primary theories. First is the **"Gate Control Theory,"** which suggests that the gentle electrical current stimulates non-pain-carrying nerves. This "closes the gate" in the spinal cord, preventing the slower-traveling pain signals from reaching the brain.
Second, the electrical stimulation can trigger the body to produce and release **endorphins**, which are your brain's natural pain-relieving chemicals. This provides a more systemic and lasting analgesic effect.
Your doctor or physical therapist will show you how to place the electrodes and operate the device. You can control the intensity and frequency to find the most comfortable and effective setting for your specific pain.
TREATMENT ADVANTAGES
TENS is a popular first-line treatment because it is safe, easy to use, and offers relief without medication.
Provides a safe alternative to pain medications and avoids the side effects, dependency, or interactions associated with them.
There are no needles, incisions, or procedures. The therapy is applied completely on the surface of the skin.
You are in complete control of the intensity and timing of the treatment, allowing you to get relief exactly when you need it.
The units are small, portable (often fitting in a pocket), and reusable, making them a cost-effective long-term solution.
By managing chronic pain effectively, TENS can often reduce a patient's reliance on and dosage of oral pain medications.
Certain settings can stimulate the release of your body's own natural painkillers, providing a sense of well-being and pain reduction.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
TENS is extremely safe for most people. However, there are important contraindications. You should **NOT** use a TENS unit if you have a **pacemaker**, a spinal cord stimulator, or other implanted electrical device. It should also not be used if you are pregnant (especially over the abdomen or low back).
Important: Never place electrodes on the front of your neck, over your eyes, or on broken/infected skin. Always consult your doctor before using a TENS unit to ensure it's safe for you.
USAGE GUIDE
Using a TENS unit is simple. Always start with a low-intensity setting and gradually increase it.
Gently clean the skin where the electrodes will be placed with soap and water. Dry completely. Do not use lotions or oils.
Place the sticky pads on the skin, typically surrounding the area of pain as instructed by your therapist. Ensure they are fully adhered.
Turn the unit on *after* the pads are placed. Slowly increase the intensity until you feel a strong but comfortable tingling or buzzing sensation.
A typical session lasts 15 to 30 minutes. You can use the TENS unit several times a day as needed for pain relief.
TREATMENT GUIDE
TENS therapy is about finding the right settings and routine that work for your specific pain.
Your doctor or therapist will guide you. The goal is to find a setting that feels comfortable. The sensation should be a tingling, not painful or jolting.
You will experiment with different frequencies (pulse rate) and modes. Some settings block pain (high-frequency), while others release endorphins (low-frequency).
TENS is excellent for "on-demand" relief. You can use it during an activity that normally causes pain or as soon as you feel a pain flare-up beginning.
Your body can get used to one setting. It's important to vary the settings or take breaks from the TENS unit to ensure it remains effective over the long term.
Please don't hesitate to reach out and request an appointment. We look forward to meeting with you, addressing your concerns, and working together to enhance your quality of life.