TENS Machine

TENS abbreviates to Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator, in essence an electronic pain relieving device. Here, Transcutaneous means ‘to penetrate through the skin’. TENS Machine is an appliance that delivers mild electrical currents to nerve endings to help in releasing endorphons and hence ease pain throughout the body. TENS is a non-invasive, safe and effective treatment intended to reduce acute and chronic pain.

TENS machines are set differently to treat different pain situations. Their worldwide usage would imply that they are extremely effective in reducing pain. However, the amount that the pain is eased is likely to vary from person to person with the same condition.

TENS Machines pass small electrical impulses to the body via electrodes placed on the skin. The pulsing affects the way pain signals are delivered to the brain. Nerves and spinal cords help pain signals to reach through the brain. If the pain signal is blocked, then the brain will receive fewer signals from the source of the pain. We will then feel less pain.
TENS machines are made to work in two ways.

Firstly, when the machine is set on a high pulse rate it triggers the 'pain gate' to close. This is thought to block a pain nerve pathway to the brain. This is the normal method of use.

Secondly, when the machine is set on a low pulse rate it stimulates the body to make its own pain easing chemicals called endorphins. These act a bit like morphine to block pain signals.

TENS machines are likely to reduce pain from problems in muscles, joints and nerves rather than abdominal, chest or head pains. Unlike medication, there are no side-effects with using a TENS machine. You must not use a TENS Machine if any of the following applies to you: 

If cause of the pain is not known or not diagnosed

If you are pregnant (unless specifically medically advised)

If you use a pacemaker

If you have epilepsy or certain types of heart disease

New inventions, such as the Digital TENS Machine, have been developed. They are a new portable, digital device designed with dual isolated channels. A Digital TENS Machines provides symptomatic relief from chronic and acute pain. They consist of a microprocessor control and digital selection; users can set parameters accurately, and the device is easy to operate. In addition to it’s sleek look, the digital TENS machine has improved functions and differing modes, including burst, normal, MRW, SD and Bi-pulse, a final countdown indicator, patient compliance timer and low battery indicator.

TENS Machines uses quality premium self adhesive and reusable replacement electrode pads for TENS units and come in packs of 4. TENS Machines Pads are cloth backed and have a single 0.08" female pin style connector. These TENS Machine electrodes work with entire Tens units (except the Pro-Muscle Massager - uses SNAP connector pads below) and most other manufacturer's TENS models. These self-adhesive TENS Machine pads do not need extra conductive gel. The Rubber non-adhesive electrode pads will require a conductive gel for use. For best results, it is recommended that you replace the electrodes as soon as the conductive gel starts to wear down. This will generally occur anywhere from 20-50 uses (depending on use). Lifespan of TENS Machine electrode pads can be increased by keeping them in the air tight package when not in use, cleaning your skin prior to putting the pads on your skin and rubbing a small drop of water on the electrode pad after each use.

Earlier usage of TENS Machines at the time of Pregnancy, were found to be unsafe. But now TENS Machines have been introduced, and recommended by midwives and widely used during childbirth in the UK. It is a background level of pain relief to which other pain relief methods can be added, although some mothers use only TENS throughout their labour. There are no harmful side effects and as a result babies are born more awake and responsive than those whose mothers have used strong drugs for pain relief. This allows for quicker bonding and consequently breastfeeding difficulties are less likely.

When not to use TENS Machine:

When broken or damaged skin

At front of the neck, close to eyes or in the mouth

Over areas of reduced sensation

Near water such as in the bath or shower

While driving or operating machinery