Many physical therapy clinics use electric stimulation for chronic pain relief & rehabilitation. This portable tens machine is the best non-invasive, automated treatment for pain management! It has a rechargeable battery and easy-to-clean electrodes!
v
What’s the difference between TENS and EMS?
v
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is used to help reduce pain and increase circulation. Basically the vibration of the TENS follows the same pathway as the pain pathway to the brain and helps cancel it out. It is a great alternative to pain medication.
A TENS uses four electrodes with cross currents to surround the area. The deep vibration/massage helps relax the muscles and allow for healing. EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) helps contract the muscles to build back up strength after an injury. With EMS the muscles will actually contract, and you can use it as a tool while exercising to help retrain the muscle to work how it’s suppose to. It uses two electrodes directly over the muscle you are trying to contract.
v
The iStim EV-805 I use in this video is a 4 Channel TENS+EMS Combo Unit and comes with 24 Replacement Electrodes Pads. It has 5 TENS Modes + 3 EMS Modes + 24 Preset Programs. You can also manually set up the pulse rate and pulse width if you want to make it more specific for your needs.
v
v
Ever heard of a Tens Machine?
v
Tens machine is a staple part of treating pain for most therapists
BUT it is overused and far too relied upon. Most of all, it doesn’t treat the root of the problem only the symptoms
How does it work? Simple the Tens machine blocks pain signals which temporarily reduce pain and make you feel better. The keyword is temporary… So let’s talk about the pro’s and cons of using this machine, it does serve its purpose at certain times.
v
Pros
1️⃣Portability: It’s small and can be taken anywhere you go.
2️⃣Noninvasive: Application is comfortable, easy, and all topical.
3️⃣Easy to use at home: It can be used whenever you need to relieve pain without visiting a therapist.
v
4️⃣Immediate effects: Because of the fact that it blocks pain signals, you can feel the effects right away and helps most people just get through their day.
Cons
1️⃣Restrictions: Can’t be used if you’re pregnant, have a heart condition, have eczema or have a history of cancer.
2️⃣Lack of clinical evidence that this works: There hasn’t been a study to prove positive long term side effects of using the machine.
4️⃣Only treats the symptom: Using this machine is like using Tylenol, it can take away the pain temporarily but when the medicine wears off, your pain is still there. You need to treat the ROOT of the problem.
Is TENS Safe to Use for Pain? Bob and Brad discuss TENS Units and when they are beneficial for decreasing pain.
You attach the pads directly to your skin. When the machine is switched on, small electrical impulses are delivered to the affected area of your body, which you feel as a tingling sensation.
The electrical impulses can reduce the pain signals going to the spinal cord and brain, which may help relieve pain and relax muscles. They may also stimulate the production of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers.
TENS may be able to help reduce pain and muscle spasms caused by a wide range of conditions including:
arthritis
period pain
pelvic pain caused by endometriosis
knee pain
neck pain
back pain
sports injuries
It’s also sometimes used as a method of pain relief during labour.
There isn’t enough good-quality scientific evidence to say for sure whether TENS is a reliable method of pain relief. More research is needed and clinical trials for TENS are ongoing.
Healthcare professionals have reported that it seems to help some people, although how well it works depends on the individual and the condition being treated.
TENS isn’t a cure for pain and often only provides short-term relief while the TENS machine is being used.
However, the treatment is generally very safe and you may feel it’s worth trying instead of, or in addition to, the usual medical treatments.
If you’re thinking about trying TENS, it’s a good idea to speak to your GP about a referral to a physiotherapist or pain clinic.
A physiotherapist or pain specialist may be able to loan you a TENS machine for a short period if they think it could help.
You can choose to buy your own TENS machine without getting medical advice, but it’s generally better to have a proper assessment first, so you can find out whether a TENS machine is appropriate for you and be taught how to use it properly.
To get the most benefit from TENS, it’s important that the settings are adjusted correctly for you and your individual condition.
If you find TENS effective, you can buy a TENS machine from a pharmacy. They range in price from about £10 to £200. More expensive machines aren’t necessarily any better than lower-priced ones, so it’s best to do some research before you buy.
The information below is a general guide on how to use a TENS machine. You should always follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions.
TENS machines are small and lightweight, so you can use them while you’re working or on the move. You can put it in your pocket, clip it to your belt or hold it in your hand.
You can use TENS throughout the day for as long as you like, although it shouldn’t be used while you’re driving, operating machinery, or in the bath or shower.
Make sure the machine is switched off before you attach the pads to your skin. Position the pads either side of the painful area, at least 2.5cm (1 inch) apart.
Never place the pads over:
the front or sides of your neck
your temples
your mouth or eyes
your chest and upper back at the same time
irritated, infected or broken skin
numb areas
Turn on the TENS machine when the pads are attached in the correct places. You’ll feel a slight tingling sensation pass through your skin.
The machine has a dial that allows you to control the strength of the electrical impulses.
Start on a low setting and gradually increase it until the sensation feels strong but comfortable. If the tingling sensation starts to feel painful or uncomfortable, reduce it slightly.
Switch the TENS machine off after you’ve finished using it and remove the electrodes from your skin.
For most people, TENS is a safe treatment with no side effects.
Some people may be allergic to the pads and their skin may become red and irritated, but special pads for people with allergies are available.
TENS isn’t safe for everyone to use. Don’t use it without first seeking medical advice if:
you have a pacemaker or another type of electrical or metal implant in your body
you’re pregnant, or there’s a chance you might be pregnant – TENS may not be recommended early in pregnancy
you have epilepsy or a heart problem