Why Use a TENS Unit?
The uses and benefits
Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation
or TENS is a way to treat back pain. It is best used in conjunction with other
pain alleviating treatments[1].
A TENS unit, as it is called, is a battery operated durable medical device that
is relatively small and portable. While the research about TENS unit use on
back pain is inconclusive, it also appears that the research conducted has had
so many different control and sample group types, it can be difficult to say
that TENS treatment is NOT helpful. Many people have described relief, and many
others have not. The good news is that TENS treatment is relatively safe when
used properly. Here are some things you should know before using a TENS durable
medical equipment:
·
Uses: TENS is used for the treatment of acute lower back
pain (such as that experienced after back surgery) as well as to control labor
pain during childbirth. Generally, TENS is NOT USED FOR CHRONIC BACK PAIN
LASTING LESS THAN ONE YEAR. The idea for TENS use in childbirth is to use
it instead of other pain killing techniques than may harm mother, child or
both. It is also used to promote wound healing and neuropathic pain, a complex
condition of the soma sensory system.
Neuropathic pain can result from chemotherapy, shingles, multiple
sclerosis, alcoholism and many other situations.
·
How Does TENS Work? The basic idea around TENS is to
stimulate nerves in such a way as to alleviate pain. This is based on what is
called the Gate Theory which surmises that stimulating larger nerve fibers will
block out the pain felt from activity in the smaller nerve fibers. Ironically,
it is the small nerve fibers that are the culprit in pain. By stimulating
nerves in this way, the “gateway” to the brain in the spinal cord could be
blocked so pain is not felt. This is not a new theory, and has been around
since around 1965.[2]
·
How Long Does TENS Treatment Last? Pain relief can last anywhere from a few
minutes to 18 hours. If a high frequency electric pulse is used, pain relief is
usually instant, but ceases when the electrodes are
turned off. Using a lower frequency takes longer to work, but the effects tend
to last several hours. It is important that you talk to your doctor about which
frequencies are safe for you to use. Obvious concerns are things like
pacemakers and pregnancy, but there are other considerations that your doctor
can identify for your situation.
·
How do I get TENS Treatment? The first step is
to see your Chiropractor to determine if you are a candidate for TENS. If you are,
and your doctor prescribes it, you will then most likely see a Chiropractor to show you how to use the machine. You will learn where to place the
electrodes and the settings that will best treat your condition. There is a
learning curve for TENS units and safety precautions must be taken, TENS
treatment is not to be taken lightly[3].
Although the evidence about
the usefulness of a TENS treatment is varied, enough evidence shows that there
is reason to believe that it can be useful in managing long lasting (over one
year) chronic or acute pain. Probably the most important finding of research is
that TENS treatment does not seem to be effective as the ONLY treatment for
pain. But, when it is used in conjunction with other pain relieving therapies,
it seems to be more helpful. Adding TENS therapy to your pain management
regimen may serve you well and it is worth investigating.
Great blogs.
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