Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a method of pain relief involving the use of a mild electrical current usually from a portable TENS machine
see also: Tens Machines – Help to Reduce Pain in Muscles, Joints and Nerves
Overview
A TENS machine is a small, battery-operated device that has leads connected to sticky pads called electrodes.
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.
Some History
The first know records of people discovering the use of electricity to numb pain, or at least noticing that it has some effect, dates back to around 2500BC. In the Egyptian Fifth Dynasty, stone carvings have been found showing an electric fish, or possibly an electric eel being used as a pain treatment.
Roman physician, Scribonious Largus who was the physician to the Emperor Claudius noted that by standing on an electric fish could relieve some symptoms of pain. At this point nobody had an understanding of what electricity was, and had no way of generating it artificially but Largus found a way or harnessing some of the electrical energy from these electric fish and used it as a treatment for headaches, migraines and gout.
In the nineteenth century machines were invented that used static electricity to treat headaches, migraines and other types of pain. They were very popular until medicinal pain killers were discovered and the crude static electricity machines became obsolete. It was not until the 1970’s when electrical pain killing devices were once again used by the mainstream with the discovery of TENS. Modern TENS units are capable of producing a wide range of electrical signals and are able to be adjusted to suit a wide range of individual types of pain and applications. (source: https://www.tensmachines.co.uk/)
What TENS is used for
TENS may be able to help reduce pain and muscle spasms caused by a wide range of conditions including:
It’s also sometimes used as a method of pain relief during labour.
Does TENS work?
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.
Trying TENS
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.
How to use TENS
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.
Positioning the pads
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 heart (on the left side of your chest)
- irritated, infected or broken skin
- varicose veins
- numb areas
Turning it on and adjusting the strength
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.
Are there any risks of side effects?
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 rhythm disorder (arrhythmia)