What is a TENS Unit?
- TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) is a method of electrical stimulation used to relieve post-operative, acute and chronic pain. The TENS unit consists of a small machine with controls, connected by lead wires to electrode pads. When turned on, the unit delivers a tingly, buzzing sensation to the area under the electrodes. It is thought that this sensation works with your body's natural systems to alleviate pain and the way the unit is used may depend on the type of pain the patient experiences.
- The electricity sent out from the TENS unit causes your body to release natural pain killers called endorphins. The presence of endorphins in the blood stream prevents the pain signals from reaching the brain. Most units operate in two modes, a burst or pulse mode for chronic or low-level pain and a constant mode for acute short lived pain. The device is easily available in the market. Price ranges from $100 to $150 depending on whether you go in for analog or digital version. Apart from the basic unit there are various accessories such as gloves, electrode rubber, charger and conductive gel that you may need to invest in.
- A device like a TENS unit should be used only under the continued supervision of a physician. Remember TENS does not cure the ailment; it is just a symptom-based treatment which suppresses the pain sensation. Many people take the treatment because no drugs are involved. But nevertheless, it does have a few side effects. The most common complaint is an allergic type skin reaction (experienced by about 2% of patients) and this is almost always due to the material of the electrodes, the conductive gel or the tape employed to hold the electrodes in place.
- There have been many contradictory reports on the effectiveness of TENS. Some authenticate its working; others have found no relation on usage and lessening of pain sensation.
- It is also important to note that TENS devices can affect the operation of demand type cardiac pacemakers. It is not recommended for patients with known heart disease to begin electrical therapy without physical evaluation of their risk factors. Further, it is important to knowledgably apply the power of the device. Do not stimulate over the eyes or carotid sinus nerves. Also, electrodes should NOT be placed in a manner which allows current to flow trans-cerebrally (through the head).