Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, often known as TENS or TNS, is a method of providing drug free pain relief using a small portable machine.
A TENS machine provides a small electrical current to the skin via either two or four self adhesive electrodes.
When switched on, the sensation from the TENS machine feels like a prickling or pins and needles sensation, and depending on the setting that the machine is used on, pain relief is achieved by two methods:
- The Pain Gate Method: Put simply, the nerves are so busy conducting the pins and needles sensation they cannot conduct pain, thereby shutting the gate on the pain.
- By the release of endorphins: Endorphins are the body's natural pain killing substance. The TENS machine stimulates the body to produce more endorphins, which relieves pain. The release of endorphins from the use of the TENS machine means that the pain relief effect lasts even once the TENS machine is taken off.
TENS for Pain Relief
A TENS machine is used to help pain. TENS can be used alongside painkillers.
TENS gives best pain relief in chronic pain (pain that has been present for several weeks or more). The kinds of conditions that often gain pain relief from the use of TENS are:
- arthritis
- back pain
- pain due to nerve damage
- phantom pain sometimes experienced after amputation
Disadvantages and Contraindications to TENS
TENS is a safe treatment with few side effects; however, TENS should not be used in the following situations:
- During pregnancy. TENS is, however, safe to use during labour, and is very effective in helping with labour pain.
- TENS electrodes should not be placed over the face or the front of the neck unless directed to do so by a medical practitioner
- TENS electrodes cannot be placed over broken or damaged skin.
- TENS electrodes should not be placed over areas of skin which are numb, or have altered sensation
- TENS machines can adversely affect some pacemakers. People with pacemakers in situ should check with their medical practitioner prior to commencing TENS therapy.
- A TENS should not be used when driving or operating machinery as the pins and needles sensation may act as a distraction.
- TENS can be very useful in alleviating pain from cancer. However, patients with cancer should check with their medical practitioner prior to commencing the use of TENS.
Other Methods of Drug Free Pain Relief
The application of heat or ice can also be useful to reduce pain.
Disclaimer
This information is written by a Chartered Physiotherapist. It is provided to help individuals learn a little about TENS and its uses. However, there are many causes of pain. If you have any concerns about your pain you should always seek advice from a qualified professional such as your physiotherapist or doctor.
Jane Hodgson - physiobench.com/physios/2/Jane-Hodgson I'm co owner of Physiobench, a web based physiotherapy (physical therapy) practice. We're ...
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