Over time, different kinds of therapy have been found to treat pain relief. People do these treatments in hopes of increasing their quality of life. But did you know that some kinds of pain relief treatment rely on electricity?
It’s certainly not something that everybody would be comfortable with, but it’s worth a try. This can be useful for those not comfortable doing therapy with needles or taking certain kinds of drugs. The therapy is commonly known as TENS therapy. So, what is it? Read on to find out.
What is TENS Therapy?
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a method of alleviating pain that involves the use of a mild electrical current.
It’s in the form of a small, battery operated device that is connected to a couple of sticky pads (electrodes). The small device delivers current either at or near the nerves where the pain is located.
The device is small and lightweight meaning you can use them while working or moving. It’s usually small enough to be put in the pocket, clip it to your belt, or just hold it in your hand when you move about. TENS can be used throughout the day for as long as you like. But, not while driving, taking a bath, or operating machinery.
Therapy Using TENS
The sticky pads or electrodes are attached directly to the skin. When the machine is switched on, small electrical impulses are delivered to the body. This will make you feel a tingling sensation in the affected area.
What happens is that the electrical impulses can reduce the pain signals going to the spinal cord and brain. This helps relieve pain and relaxes the muscles. The electrical impulses also stimulate the production of endorphins, which are also known as the body’s natural painkillers.
Using a TENS unit to Lose Weight
Many people search for a way to lose weight, so does the use of TENS work for weight loss? Although transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation uses electrical stimulation, they have a different purposes.
As we told before, TENS is a non-invasive method recommended by doctors, physiotherapists, and chiropractors for pain relief management and involves the use of a mild electrical current. You will feel a tingling sensation upon using the device. However, the pulsations from a TENS unit for weight loss will not be effective because it won’t burn calories. For weight reduction, a machine like EMS may bring more results.
Also read Do Abs Stimulators Work?
Who Can Use It?
TENS is a unique method of pain relief that can be used on a wide range of conditions. These conditions are arthritis, period pain, pelvic pain caused by endometriosis, neck pain, knee pain, sports injuries. Some have even used it to relieve pain during labor.
It’s a relatively safe method to use because it doesn’t require medicines or injections, you can move about as you use it, and it allows some control over the pain relief. If you use it during labor, there is no need to worry. TENS does not harm you or the baby; thus, it is safe to use during early labor.
Although TENS does allow some mobility and doesn’t cause much harm, there are slight disadvantages. TENS machines cannot be used in the bath or shower, and it’s advised not to use them while driving. Aside from that, it shouldn’t be used on an open wound, on pregnant women who are not in labor, on people with epilepsy, and certainly not on those with a pacemaker or a cochlear implant.
How To Use TENS Unit
Ready to Try TENS?
Like anything else, it’s not a surprise that TENS came with several risks and disadvantages. However, it doesn’t mean that those of you who can use it should be afraid. If it is suitable for you and was recommended by a medical professional, just give it a go.
Keep in mind that TENS is not a cure for pain. It usually only provides short-term relief while the machine is being used. It is absolutely worth it for those looking for alternatives as it is generally very safe.
