Pros And Cons Of Using A Tens Machine For Pain Relieve

The transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) device is a battery-powered device used to relieve pain in certain people. TENS machine function by sending tiny electrical impulses via electrodes with adhesive pads that are attached to the user's skin. These electrical impulses overwhelm the nerve system, impairing its capacity to send pain signals to the brain and the spinal cord. The same electric signals drive the body to manufacture endorphins, which are natural pain relievers.

PROS

TENS is a therapeutic way of pain relief. People who get pain relief via TENS could be able to cut back on pain drugs, some of which might be addictive or have negative side effects. TENS devices are also useful since they are compact, portable, and generally inconspicuous. People can keep a TENS device in their purse or clip it to their belt to enjoy instant pain relief during the day.

CONS

Most people are safe to choose a TENS device, and they seldom have any negative effects. However, the electric signals produced by a TENS unit may induce a buzzing, stinging, or tickling sensation feeling that some individuals may find unpleasant. The sticky pads may cause allergic reactions in some persons.

Anyone who suffers from skin irritated skin can switch to hypoallergenic products instead. The electrodes must never be placed on the front of the neck or even the eyes. Placing electrodes on the spine might cause blood pressure to drop and spasms. When used on the eye, the sensors might raise intraocular pressure and even cause harm.

Experts have not yet decided if TENS is a viable therapy for pain reduction caused of a lack of elevated scientific and health studies. According to one research, TENS therapy gave transient pain alleviation for those with osteoarthritis while the unit was in operation, according to Trusted Source. TENS is a reduced pain treatment alternative for many patients, despite a lack of clear clinical proof for its usefulness. TENS effectiveness may be influenced by several factors, including:

TOLERANCE

Studies demonstrate that patients using a TENS unit on a routine basis at the very same rate and strength might acquire tolerance to the therapy. Tolerance means that a person no longer feels the same amount of pain alleviation that they experienced when they initially used the device. To avoid this, users might alternate between LF or HF TENS throughout each therapy session. They can also progressively increase the strength or length of TENS regularly.

THE LEVEL OF STIMULATION

Some of the discrepancies in research outcomes may be explained by the intensity range of the electrical stimulation. As per a study, HF TENS is more effective than LF TENS in treating pain.

In reality, research has revealed that LF TENS is useless. Because HF TENS is a more strong pain treatment, specialists advise users to use the highest-intensity TENS they can handle.

ELECTRODE POSITIONING

TENS is more efficient if the electrodes are placed on acupuncture sites. Acupuncture is a treatment that involves the insertion of needles to stimulate nerves beneath the epidermis at particular sites known as acupressure. According to experts, this aids the body's production of endorphins. One study discovered some indication that persons who get TENS through acupuncture locations may experience pain relief.