TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. In simple terms, it uses electrical currents to reduce nerve activity or stimulate muscle fibers.

There are two main theories on how TENS therapy works. The first suggests that the electrical stimulation prompts your body to release endorphins, which are natural painkillers. The second theory is that the stimulation interferes with the brain’s ability to perceive pain signals, allowing you to experience temporary pain relief even if the injury is still present.

TENS machines typically use 2-4 electrodes placed at the pain site or along nerve pathways to stimulate the associated nerves.

TENS therapy is effective for managing various types of physical pain, including back pain, arthritis, headaches, neck pain, rheumatism, diabetic neuropathy, tendinitis, sciatica, and many other conditions.

Yes, TENS therapy is safe. The electrical current used is not strong enough to cause harm or shock the skin. However, individuals with cancer, pregnancy, epilepsy, or pacemakers should avoid electrotherapy.

Electrodes should never be placed on the face, front of the neck, or over the heart, as the current can adversely affect these areas. Additionally, avoid placing electrodes on open wounds or areas with reduced sensation.

No, TENS therapy is designed to reduce pain, not increase it. Some patients may feel a tingling sensation on their skin during extended treatment sessions, but this can usually be alleviated by reducing the intensity.

For optimal results, TENS therapy should be conducted at an intensity that is "tolerable" but not "uncomfortable."

Individual TENS sessions usually last between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the specific therapy being applied. Many patients report immediate relief following a session, with the effects lasting for hours afterward, making TENS an effective method for pain management.

You can use your TENS machine as often as needed to manage your pain. TENS therapy triggers your body’s natural pain relief mechanisms, and there are no known side effects from regular use, except for potential skin irritation where the electrodes are placed.

For personal use, there are two primary types of TENS units: analog and digital.

• Analog TENS units have rotary dials and switches. These typically require setup assistance from a healthcare professional for your specific condition. Once set, you only need to turn it on and adjust the power levels.
• Digital, pre-programmed TENS units come with various preset programs designed for specific conditions or body parts. These require less professional assistance but may need you to input settings for each use. Some devices include a LOCK feature, allowing you to save your settings for future sessions.

TENS units are available at a wide range of price points, depending on their features and whether they are intended for clinical or personal use. Some units offer additional waveforms beyond TENS, expanding your treatment options. There is a TENS machine to fit every budget, making it a valuable long-term investment for managing various types of physical pain.