TENS Machines: A Drug-Free Alternative to Pain Relief

WHAT IS A TENS MACHINE?

TENS stands for “Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation”. A TENS machine is a device that uses mild electrical current to block pain through the skin via electrodes.

WHAT DO PEOPLE USE TENS MACHINES FOR?

Patients use TENS machines to treat various types of pain, including arthritic, muscular, joint, menstrual and back pain.

TENS machines are also used during pregnancy and labour, but a physician would instruct the patient in these situations.

HOW DO TENS MACHINES RELIEVE PAIN?

The gentle electrical current is thought to decrease pain via something called the “Gate Control Theory”. A “gateway” in the spinal cord controls pain signals, and some stimuli, including an electrical current from a TENS machine, can close this gate.

TENS can also release endorphins which can decrease pain perception. Pain relief may also occur by relaxing the blood vessels at the point of pain.

HOW DO I USE A TENS MACHINE?

Place the electrodes at the point of pain or surrounding the area. Choose the intensity that feels tolerable, strong but still comfortable.
Each device comes with recommendations for how long the current should be on and usually ranges from five to 30 mins.

Recommended frequencies range from once daily to as needed. Some manufacturers recommend treatment of one region for no more than 30 mins three times a day.

ARE TENS MACHINES SAFE?

Over-the-counter TENS devices are considered extremely safe. During treatment, patients may experience warmness or a mild tingling at the site of the electrodes.

ARE TENS MACHINES EFFECTIVE?

Many studies have proven that TENS machines are effective. However TENS isn’t a cure for pain and often only provides short-term relief while the TENS machine is being used. There is a chance that the body will build up tolerance to the TENS stimuli, meaning over time the effectiveness might decrease.

ARE THERE ANY PRECAUTIONS WHEN USING A TENS MACHINE?

TENS is not recommended for use by patients with heart conditions, epilepsy, pregnant patients, or those at risk of internal bleeding.
These devices are also not recommended to be used by any patient using other electrical devices, such as a cardiac pacemaker, an infusion pump, or an implanted defibrillator. Application sites that should be avoided include the front of the neck, eyes, chest, brain (opposite sides of the head), and face. Always check with a healthcare provider before trying TENS for the first time.