Do you suffer from chronic pain, muscle tension or sports injuries? There TENS (transcutaneous nerve electrical stimulation) could be the solution to your pain problems.
But what is the TENS Exactly ? How does it work? What are the advantages and limitations of this technique?
If you are considering using a device TENS, you will find in this article all the answers to your questions, as well as the recommendations of a health professional on the subject.
– People with chronic pain – People who wish to avoid or reduce their use of painkillers. – Patients in rehabilitation following an operation or injury
Benefits
– Fast pain relief – No significant side effects – Easy to use at home
Drawbacks
– Short-term effect – Limitations of use – Contraindications
Our opinion
By using TENS, patients can regain mobility, function and quality of life without having to undergo invasive surgeries or potentially addictive medications. However, it must be integrated into a more global approach.
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Contents
Our recommendations
Here is our selection of the best TENS devices for pain relief. They meet all the selection criteria mentioned in this article:
Last updated on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API
What is TENS?
Le TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is a treatment modality that uses an electronic device to send weak electrical impulses through the skin to the nerves.
These electrical impulses can block pain signals transmitted by the nerves to the brain, thus reducing the painful sensation.
According to some modern theories, this device would cause a reaction in the brain that would relieve pain and reduce muscle tension.
The devices TENS are often portable and can be used at home or in consultation with a physiotherapist.
When should TENS be used?
The therapy by transcutaneous nerve electrical stimulation has been used or studied for the relief of chronic (long-lasting) and acute (short-lasting) pain.
Some of the most common conditions for which TENS has been used include:
Pain treatment: the EM 59 device relieves pain by means of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), it acts without medication and without side effects directly on the painful area
Electrical Muscle Stimulation: The stimulation current device also has an EMS function which can be used to tighten your muscles or to regenerate muscles individually
Last updated on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API
What are the benefits of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation therapy?
This therapy can provide several benefits for pain relief.
First, it can help reduce pain intensity and frequency of pain attacks.
It can also help to improve the quality of sleep, which is especially important for people with chronic pain.
Source
Finally, the TENS can help reduce dependence on medication for pain, which is especially important given the current opioid crisis.
Another advantage of the TENS unit is that it is small and portable, so it can be used at home or outdoors, whenever pain relief is needed.
What does science say?
The results of using the TENS for pain relief have been variable and inconclusive.
In some studies, patients have reported pain relief with the use of TENS. In other studies, pain relief by TENS was not significantly higher than that reported by the TENS “fictitious” (placebo); in other studies, results were better than placebo.
Effectiveness may depend on many factors, including the type of condition for which pain relief is desired, the location of the electrodes on the skin, and device settings TENS itself (frequency, duration, intensity and type of pulse).
The researchers say it is difficult to assess its effectiveness due to the lack of randomized trials comparing the TENS to conventional therapy and that further studies are needed.
TENS + EMS. AUVON electrostimulation device combines 2 therapies in 1 device, in which TENS provides safe, non-invasive and drug-free pain relief methods used by doctors and physiotherapists for years. PMS/EMS causes elicitation of muscle contraction using electrical impulses and activates muscles to help increase strength and endurance as a rehabilitation and strength training tool .
Last updated on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API
What are the risks and side effects of TENS?
Therapy TENS has few reported side effects. In rare cases, patients have reported burns where the electrodes are placed.
Some patients may be allergic to the adhesive used to attach the cushion to the skin or to the materials of the cushion itself (the skin may become red, irritated or a rash may occur).
Some people may be sensitive to the tingling/cloudy sensation generated by the unit TENS or feel uncomfortable with it.
When to avoid TENS?
Although this therapeutic method is safe for most people, experts recommend that certain groups of people avoid this treatment unless a doctor advises its use.
This recommendation applies to the following persons:
Pregnant women : Pregnant women should avoid using TENS in the abdominal and pelvic regions.
people with epilepsy : Applying electrodes to the head or neck of people with epilepsy can cause seizures.
People with heart problems : People with a pacemaker or other type of electrical or metallic implant.
Opinion of a health professional (physiotherapist)
Transcutaneous Electro-Nerve Therapy, or TENS, is considered an effective tool for relieving physical and muscular pain.
However, it is emphasized that this modality should be used as a complement to other treatment approaches, rather than as a replacement. Although the TENS may offer an alternative to medication for those who do not want to use it, it does not address the underlying cause of back pain or physical pain.
Source
Therefore, a global approach is rather recommended, which includes physical activity, stress and sleep management, as well as manual therapy for a complete and lasting healing.
In sum, the TENS can be a great option for pain relief, but must be used in conjunction with other therapies for effective and complete treatment.
What our patients and other users say
It is interesting to take into account the feedback from patients and other users of TENS, in order to better understand its effectiveness and its use in a practical context.
Among these returns, some highlighted the benefits of TENS in pain management.
For example, a patient who bought TENS following our advice testified that "this product gave him real relief both in terms of pain in his leg and in his back, without having to gorge on medication".
Similarly, another user testifies to its effectiveness for muscle problems and back pain, emphasizing "it brings real relief especially with regard to muscle pain".
These positive feedbacks thus underline the interest of TENS in pain management, by offering an effective non-drug alternative to relieve chronic or temporary pain.
How to choose a TENS device?
Now that you know what the TENS and how it can relieve your pain, you are probably interested in purchasing a device for your personal use. But how to choose the right one? Here are some tips to help you choose the best one for your needs.
First, it is important to consider the product quality. Be sure to choose a device TENS high quality and reliable, which has been tested and approved by medical professionals. Avoid cheap and untested products, which may not work effectively or even be dangerous.
Then you should think about the fease of use and device portability. Is the device easy to use? Is it lightweight and portable so it can be used anytime and anywhere? These features are especially important if you plan to use the device for TENS during your daily activities or while traveling.
Finally, think about your specific pain needs. Some devices of TENS are designed to treat specific areas of the body, while others can be used all over the body. Be sure to choose a device that meets your particular pain needs, based on the location, intensity, and frequency of your pain.
All in all, choosing the right device can be tricky, but with these tips in mind, you're sure to find the right device. TENS perfect for relieving your pain.
So don't wait any longer and choose your device now to start living a pain-free and more active life!
Electrical stimulation device with three functions: EMS electrical muscle stimulation, TENS transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and massage
The SEM 43 electrostimulation device with TENS has 44 pre-programmed applications and six individually adjustable programs (TENS and EMS) for a variety of treatments
On the backlit LCD display of the device, you can set the timer function. For safe use, the device has a key lock and a safety stop
Last updated on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API
To remember
La TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) is a non-invasive and effective therapy for pain relief, especially in the field of health and well-being.
Ultimately, if you suffer from chronic or acute pain, it may be worth seeing your doctor to determine if the TENS is an appropriate treatment option for you.
Remember that the TENS is a technique approved and recommended by healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists and doctors. By choosing the right device for your needs, you can achieve even more effective results.
So don't suffer in silence anymore. Invest in a device now. TENS premium quality and enjoy the many benefits it can offer for your health and well-being. You will not regret it !
Johnson M (2014) Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation: review of effectiveness. Nursing Standard. 28, 40, 44-53. Date of submission: November 4 2013; date of acceptance: December 18, 2013
My name is Mehdi Toufik, I am a general practitioner and French-speaking web editor. As a health professional, I spend my time reading, studying and documenting all the scientific information to extract the essentials. My passion for literature and writing led me to start writing articles on the theme of health and well-being, by offering unique and original articles, pleasant to read.
