TENS unit is
the short form of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Unit. It is a
biomedical electronic device that is used for pain control therapy. It is an
extremely handy device which is quite small in size; it can be easily fit into
a pocket. This portable device is powered by external batteries and it is
extremely safe to use.
Working
Principle
TENS unit
works in a very simple yet delicate manner. The basic principle of the device
is, replacing pain with a different sensation. Pain is just an electronic
sensation that we feel in our brain passing through the nervous system. TENS
unit has electrodes that needs to be placed on one’s skin. The device sends a
signal through the wire into the electrodes which penetrates the skin and
enters the nerves. Then the signal is passed into the brain which alters the
pre-existing pain signal into a comfortable tingling sensation. TENS unit can
also increase the release of endorphin in our system. Endorphin is body’s natural
defense mechanism to reduce pain.
How to
use TENS unit
The placement
of the TENS unit electrodes depend on the location of the pain. It can be
placed on or surrounding the area of the pain. This device works excellent with
joint pain, muscle pain and spasm. Placing the electrodes in the correct place
is probably the most important part of using TENS unit. If it is placed in a
wrong area, it will not reduce the pain at all. It is absolutely not allowed to
place the electrodes in the eyes or any nerves above the shoulders.
Who can
use TENS unit
TENS therapy
is usually not applied for more than a week. But for recurring pain like
arthritis and phantom limb (recurring pain after being amputated) pain, it may
be used more often. One of the biggest advantages of TENS unit is its
portability. It allows people to use it in their own homes. Before using it on
their own, it is important to learn how to use it properly from professional
medical personnel.
Things
to look out for:
·
First thing to check when using a
TENS unit is whether the batteries are fully charged or not. If the device
stops during an ongoing session, it might make the pain worse.
·
There are 2 circular knobs in the
device; one controls the strength of the signal and the other controls the speed.
Both need to be turned off before using it.
·
Thin layer of a special gel needs
to be applied where the electrodes will be placed. This gel helps to pass the
signal into the nerves properly.
·
Make sure the electrodes are
properly stuck to the skin. The electrodes need to be placed in the proper spot
throughout the session.
·
Follow the doctor’s recommended
strength and speed of the signal.
·
If the strength or speed of the
signal is too much then the muscle will start to spasm. If the tingling
sensation is not felt then the strength or speed is too low.
·
It is absolutely forbidden to
sleep or take a shower while using TENS unit
·
Heart patients using a pacemaker
cannot use this device
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