In this tutorial, we explore and discuss whether Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is an effective tool for pain management.
Does TENS Actually Work? | Expert Physio Review
TENS machines
THE MOST PORTABLE TENS UNIT | MUSCLE STIMULATOR FOR PAIN RELIEF
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!
How to Use a TENS / EMS Unit for Pain Relief
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What’s the difference between TENS and EMS?
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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.
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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.
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Pain Management – Pros and Cons of TENS Machines
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Ever heard of a Tens Machine?
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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.
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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.
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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.
Are TENS machines Safe to Use for Pain?
Is TENS Safe to Use for Pain? Bob and Brad discuss TENS Units and when they are beneficial for decreasing pain.