TENS units (also known as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation or TENS) are digital devices that use electrodes to send low-voltage electrical impulses to the targeted muscles. When these impulses are sent to the targeted muscles, they induce pain relief, reduce muscle spasms, and reduce tension in the affected area. Especially for those with neck pain, TENS can offer a whole new range of benefits.
In other words, a TENS unit is a small device that you can wear to stimulate specific muscles and provide relief from pain. They consist of two electrodes that are attached to two metal pads. All you have to do is press the electrodes against the back of your neck. The TENS unit sends electrical impulses to the targeted muscles, which relieves pain and tension. You can use a tens unit at home, at work, or while you’re travelling. Here’s everything you need to know about using a TENS unit for neck pain.
The Cause of Neck Pain
The neck is a complex group of muscles, ligaments, and vertebrae that support your head. It’s especially vulnerable to injury because of its unique anatomy; much of the spine is located in the middle of the back, and it’s connected to the skull by a very small number of joints. A common cause of neck pain is an injury to the soft tissues of the neck. You need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of neck pain to prevent this type of injury. Sharp pain in the neck is often related to musculoskeletal injury, such as car crash whiplash, sports injuries, whiplash injuries, and falls. Pain that persists longer than two weeks with no obvious cause should be evaluated by a doctor.
Treating Neck Pain with TENS
There are many ways to relieve neck pain, one of the method is using TENS unit. TENS is a noninvasive treatment that uses electrical impulses to relieve pain and reduce muscle spasms. It works by registering the electrical activity of a person’s muscles and sending the same impulses to the affected muscles, reducing pain and spasms. Electrical impulses have been known to the medical community for more than 50 years, but they became popular as a pain treatment in the 1990s.
Over the years, several studies have been done on the effectiveness of TENS in treating neck pain. TENS, when combined with other interventions is useful in relieving neck pain (Rampazo, Martignago, et. al., 2021).
There are many kinds of TENS units, but they all work in the same way. On the front of the device is a small computer screen that shows a graphic user interface. You can use the user interface to select which areas of the body you want to stimulate, change the intensity of treatment, and monitor treatment.
Considerations of Using TENS on Neck Pain
There are several things to consider before using a TENS device on neck pain. The type of device you use can affect how well it works for your symptoms. You’ll need to find a device that delivers the impulses you want and doesn’t cause any unwanted side effects.
The best way to find the most suitable device for your symptoms is to try different devices and see how they work. You can do this by visiting online reviews and reading how-to guides for your device. For example, if your pain is mild to moderate, you can try a unit with a lower intensity. You can adjust the intensity as your symptoms change or when you need more pain relief. Or if you have a severe headache or a migraine, wait until the pain is gone before using a TENS unit.
TENS for Neck Pain: Massmulator
Massmulator is one of the best TENS therapy units for pain and aches all over the body. It’s formed in special pads that are sealed and reusable. Effortlessly press the button on this LED display touch screen, or simply use a stylus pen that comes with it. Massmulator wireless electrical nerve stimulator provides 28 different modes of treatment, including massage and various types of physical therapy. The intensity levels feature 20 adjustments with each mode, so you can get the perfect level of stimulation for your needs.
Final Words
You can relieve pain and reduce muscle spasms with a tens unit. There are several things to keep in mind when using the device, so make sure to follow these tips.
- Make sure the device is correct for your symptoms. The device should match the intensity of the impulses you want to give, so it doesn’t cause any unwanted side effects.
- Don’t use the device while driving or doing any activities that involve your neck.
- Don’t use the device for more than a couple of weeks. If your symptoms don’t improve or if you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor.
For the most effective treatment, make an appointment with a doctor who specializes in neck pain and headaches. Your doctor can help you figure out the underlying cause of your pain and determine the best treatment.
