Dimishing Pain with Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

Dimishing Pain with Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve
Stimulation (TENS)
advancebackandneck.com /dimishing-pain-transcutaneous-electrical-nerve-stimulation-tens/
Pain seems to have become a part of accepted lifestyles. Many people go through their daily grindfeeling
the pain in necks, their lower back and in achy joints and simply getting through their tasks.
Some manage the discomfort with medication. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is
a method that uses electrical nerve impulses to reduce feelings of pain. It is possible to feel better other
than reliance on medication.
What is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)?
Clients in pain visit a chiropractor or a physical therapist. Electrodes are placed near or on the area of
discomfort. Electrical impulses are conducted through the electrodes to corresponding nerves. The
body’s pain signal is interrupted with this new electrical stimulation.
The device consists of electrodes and an adjustable power unit. The average power unit is about the
size of a cell phone. The intensity can be adjusted from low to high frequencies. Electrodes are selfadhesive
and typically gel is placed between the electrode and the skin to increase efficacy of the
transmission of the impulses from the TENS device to the area of application. Electrode pads are also
of different sizes. When used at home as part of their self-care, patients find it beneficial to place the
electrode on a trigger point or acupuncture point that sets up a referral pattern for the pain signal. A
physician can recommend areas that may be used for placement of the electrodes. Patient results vary
and different levels of intensity may be necessary for a set of conditions, threshold of pain and
perception of pain versus the tingling or massage-like feelings from the TENS.
Theory of TENS

Studies show varying levels of efficacy for patients. Many doctors recommend it as a part of their pain
management program. TENS works for a number of clients but researchers still debate on exactly how
the application of TENS results in pain relief. Theories suggest that the electrical stimulation of the
nerves blocks the feeling of pain and that TENS releases endorphins, a natural pain-killing hormone
present in the body.
Who Benefits from TENS?
People with short-term or chronic pain can benefit from TENS. Those who wish to reduce dependency
on medications or do not benefit from prescribed medications can also be candidates for this method of
pain relief. As part of a self-care program, patients like having the ability to adjust the intensity of the
current and therefore exerting a level of control.
The top 10 conditions that TENS has been shown to be useful for are as follows:
Muscular Pain
Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Sciatica
Pain after Surgical Procedures
Bursitis
Traumatic Injury
Dental Pain
Pinched Nerves
Degenerative Discs
Contraindications for TENS Application
TENS is not always a suitable method of pain relief. Those who have a pacemaker or who are
pregnant should speak with a doctor to find out if this method is appropriate for their specific situation.
TENS can cause skin irritation around the area of the electrode application and changing the type of gel
or electrode can help with this. There are varying levels of results for individuals with this method of
pain relief.
Do Not Apply TENS:
Directly on top of wounds or areas of broken skin though it is possible to apply in proximity to the
area.
On the front of the neck since the stimulation of nerves in the area can affect the rhythms of the
heart.
Over the eyes or mouth
On the temples
Over a tumor or malignancy
Over a numb area since patients cannot perceive how the intensity level of the TENS device
affects them.
The professionals at Advanced Back and Neck Care is located in Chandler, AZ and assist clients on
their path to wellness.