Table of contents:
- Get to know TENS and how it works
- What are the advantages and side effects of TENS?
- Who should not undergo TENS therapy?
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a therapy that uses electric currents to treat pain due to various conditions, from neurological disorders, surgery, to pain due to childbirth.
Like other types of therapy, TENS also has advantages and side effects. Although it is effective for some people, there are certain conditions that you need to pay attention to before undergoing this therapy. Here's more information.
Get to know TENS and how it works
Source: Wirecutter
TENS therapy is carried out with a small machine called TENS unit. This machine functions to deliver low voltage electric current into the nervous system. An electric current will enter the body through two electrodes attached to the skin.
TENS is one of many therapies used to treat neurological problems. Launching the Cleveland Clinic page and several other sources, TENS is also useful for reducing complaints due to:
- Menstrual pain or endometriosis
- Injury to the spinal cord and sports injuries
- Labor and surgery
- Joint, neck and back pain
- Inflammation of muscles or joint bearings
- Osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis
- Cancer
The electric current sent from TENS unit will flow through the central nervous system. This can reduce the ability of the nerves to send pain signals to the brain and spinal cord so that pain slowly decreases.
TENS is a safe and controlled therapy. You can control the intensity, duration, and frequency of the electric current from the control buttons located on the TENS unit. Generally, this therapy is carried out for 15 minutes using an electric current with a frequency of 10-50 Hz.
What are the advantages and side effects of TENS?
TENS is a very effective therapy for dealing with pain. This therapy can also prevent pain recurrence at a later date. The results of therapy may vary, but it does not rule out the pain can be lost permanently.
TENS therapy is also fairly easy and practical. Patients do not need to prepare anything before undergoing therapy. TENS therapy can be done independently at home, provided that you understand the points of the body that will be attached to the electrodes.
The side effects of TENS therapy are a tingling, stabbing, and humming sensation that some people may feel uncomfortable with. Some patients are also at risk of developing allergies to the sticky gel on the electrodes.
The sticky gel on the electrodes is in direct contact with the skin. Allergy to this gel is usually characterized by redness and irritation of the skin. If you experience these symptoms, try using electrodes with a hypoallergenic gel.
Side effects can also occur if you attach the electrodes incorrectly. Do not put electrodes on the front of the neck, as this can lower blood pressure and trigger seizures. Also do not put electrodes in the eye area as this can cause eye injury.
Who should not undergo TENS therapy?
Although effective, not everyone can undergo TENS therapy. People who should not undergo TENS are pregnant women, people with epilepsy and heart disease, and people who use pacemakers or similar implants.
The electric current in TENS therapy may interfere with the work of the pacemaker or interact with implants made of iron. Meanwhile, in people with epilepsy, electrodes placed near the neck or eyes can trigger seizures.
Make sure you have consulted with your doctor before undergoing TENS therapy. TENS is a very effective therapy when applied appropriately. The side effects are relatively minor compared to their great benefits in relieving pain.
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