|  | Conditions Treatments | Pain Management

TENS System Treatments

As people age and arthritic changes set in, chronic pain can develop. This can interfere with daily living. Doctors order medication, heat and cold, exercises and other techniques, hoping to improve the condition. The TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) system can be used as part of the treatment of physical therapy. You can use it at home to treat pain at as needed, and in relation to the intensity of your pain.

  1. Features

    • The TENS unit is a rectangular box about the size of an average cell phone. It is a special device which transmits electrical impulses to the part of the body that is in pain. The system consists of an electrical power unit which is connected by wires to 2 or 4 electrodes. The treatment consists of placing the electrode pads on the body at the site of the pain. You turn on the switch of the unit and a mild electrical sensation reaches the body. You use it at physical therapy or at home. You can use it from 5 to 15 minutes at a time as needed. For home use, place it in a pocket and walk around with it the entire day, turning it on whenever the pain returns. It is not a cure, but the treatment gives short-term relief.

    History

    • In 1965, Dr. Ronald Melzac and Dr. Patrick Wall developed a theory called the "Gate Control Theory." The idea was that when nerves are electrically stimulated, a pathway in the spinal cord closes and blocks the pain. This principle is based on a treatment of the ancient Greeks in which they placed electric eels on the body to relieve headaches and gout. In the 19th century, doctors sometimes used electricity to relieve pain.

    Uses

    • The TENS system treats pain caused by surgery, bursitis, headaches, arthritis and tendinitis. It can relieve pain from nerve damage in cancer patients, labor pain, acute pain from sports and other injuries as well as diabetic neuropathy. As new studies are expanded, the treatment probably will be used in other areas.

    Problems

    • There are some conditions for which the TENS machine may be dangerous and is not recommended. People with heart problems, pacemakers or defibrillators should not use a TENS unit. Those allergic to adhesives may react to the electrode pads. Do not place the unit near the eyes, heart, brain or throat. Do not turn the current too high because you can burn your skin.

Pain Management - Related Articles