Re: Tens Unit

[Guest guest]

donna goodine wrote:

>You folks speak of TENS UNIT! What exactly is this?

Here's the scoop on a TENS UNIT:

------------------------------------------------------------------------

TENS Unit FDA Approved

Tens Units and Electrotherapy Devices : This type of stimulation is

characterized by biphasic, low volt, current and selectable parameters such

as pulse rate and pulse width. TENS Units stimulates sensory nerves to block

pain signals, stimulate endorphin production to help normalize sympathetic

function.

What is TENS?

T.E.N.S stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. It's is a drug-

free alternative for managing pain. For the past twenty years, doctors have

been prescribing it as an effective way to relieve pain. It offers many people

safe comforting relief. It reduces and often even eliminates pain. It is FDA

approved, and it is reimbursable by most insurance providers.

How Does TENS Work?

This electrotherapy was designed to relieve pain by sending gentle electrical

impulses through the skin to the nerves. This suppresses pain by blocking the

pain signals before they reach the brain. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve

Stimulation sends gentle impulses through lead wires that are connected to

electrodes. These electrodes are strategically placed at appropriate pain

sights on the body. Because there are many different kinds of pain, and each

individual is unique, pain relief varies from person to person. Some users

experience pain relief only while the TENS unit is turned on. For others, relief

continues for a length of time even after the unit is turned off. It is an

excellent,

non-drug alternative for chronic pain such as lower-back ache and arthritis. It

is also useful in relieving acute pain associated with surgery, traumatic

injury,

and other conditions.

What is the most effective way to use the device?

To achieve the best results of electrotherapy, it is important to remember that

the therapy merely activates the body's own pain-fighting mechanism. Placing

electrodes directly over or around the painful area delivers pain-blocking

current to the nerves leading to that area. Some healthcare professionals

have found that placing the electrodes along acupuncture points is also

effective. Also, it is good to vary the placement of the electrodes each

treatment to avoid skin irritation.

How long does it take for the treatment to produce results?

In most cases, studies show that it takes roughly 30 minutes for TENS

treatment to begin to relieve pain. However, for conventional, high frequency

TENS treatment, there is no set treatment limit. Some patients find hours of

pain relief from short 30-to-60 minute sessions. Others use their TENS units

for several hours a day or all day, depending on the pain generated by daily

activities. Always use your TENS unit according to your physician's directions.

When can the treatment be administered?

It can be administered any time of day or night. It is recommended that TENS

not be used while sleeping. This is simply because movement during sleep

may cause electrodes to come off or be pressed into the flesh, causing skin

irritation. However, always use your tens unit according to your physician's

directions.

Does TENS treatment have any risks or side effects?

Unlike surgery or prescription drugs, TENS is virtually risk free from injury,

side effects or addiction. The low-volt electrical current delivered by the

electrodes only penetrates the skin to the level of the nerve fibers, usually

only one to two inches. This poses no danger to most individuals. However,

those with cardiac conditions and/or pacemakers, and pregnant women

should consult their doctors before using TENS. Also, neck and head pain

that requires locating electrodes on these areas of the body should be

conducted only with the consent of a physician. Use caution when you drive

or operate heavy machinery.

Hope this answers your question.

With love, hope and prayers,

Heidi

Heidi H. Griffeth

South Carolina Rep.

SE Regional Rep., PAI

Note: All comments or advice are based on personal experience or opinion,

and should not be substituted for consultation with a medical professional.