What exactly is a TENS machine? A TENS machine, as defined by the American Association of Clinical Electroencephalographs (AACFE), is a medical apparatus that provides electrical stimulation to the brain in order to reduce pain. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation is the application of small electrical current produced by an electronic device directly to the central nervous system for therapeutic purposes. The treatment may be used to mitigate the impact of neurological conditions such as stroke and chronic pain associated with diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and Multiple Sclerosis.
There are several different ways in which a TENS machine may be used. The primary benefit of the treatment is that it targets pain signals to the spinal cord, relieving the debilitating effects of pain on the patient's body. The primary way in which this technique is used is to relieve the effects of certain spinal cord injuries and illnesses, such as a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease. The portable units produce small electrical pulses targeted to the affected area to relax the muscles, ease pain, increase range of motion and improve muscle strength. Click here to get the best TENS machine.
When using a TENS machine, it is important to follow some safety precautions. Always ensure that you are working with a trained professional who has experience in the operation of the unit and the safe application of electrodes. Also, wearing protective clothing while using a tens machine should be followed. Always make sure the patient has an understanding of the therapy and that there are no foreign objects lodged in the ears or neck. It is also important to have appropriate ear plugs and to consult with the patient regarding any adverse effects that could occur.
There are two types of TENS machines on the market; those that require the patient to apply the electrodes either side of the spine or those that can be worn like regular ear plugs. The disposable pads either side of the spine are used in this manner. These pads are pre-moistened with a gel which softens and fits perfectly against the skin. To apply the pads either side of the spine, the patient is required to lie on a padded table that has one end resting on a platform at the back of the patient's bed. He or she then presses the pad onto the desired location as per instructions given on the manual.
TENS machines have been successfully used to treat various chronic conditions including pain, inflammation, stress, spasms, depression and fatigue. TENS machines are useful for home use as well. Many individuals have reported positive results when applying this therapy to ease the effects of pain when performing simple tasks such as reading, writing or sleeping. Individuals suffering from arthritis have found relief when using tens machines to relieve pain and stiffness and for the treatment of arthritis and joint-related problems.
When using a TENS machine, it is important to be aware that the electrical current does not physically hurt the body but only works to affect the brain's nerves. There are certain precautions that must be taken before using a tens machine. For instance, individuals with pacemakers must be sure they do not suffer an electrical shock as the current can interrupt the pacemaker's flow of electrical signals. Before the TENS machine is used, it is important that a medical professional to check the patient's electric stimulation level as the machine can be dangerous if incorrectly used. Also, individuals with diseases that affect the nervous system such as diabetes, epilepsy, neurological disorders and others should consult their physician before using the machine. Check out this related post to get more enlightened on the topic: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Massage.
