TENS and back pain - A-Z guide
TENS - or transcutaneous nerve stimulation, is a back pain treatment that uses low voltage electric current to relieve pain.
TENS is usually made with a TENS unit, a small battery operated device, which is charged.
The device can be connected to a belt and connected to two electrodes. Electrodes carry current from TENS to skin.
There is very little research on TENS principles with the body - to support how TENS actually works.
Its use originated in the 1960s with the introduction of pain gate control theory.
In theory, stimulating nerves play a "gate" mechanism in the spinal cord, and that can help eliminate pain. During TENS treatment for back pain, electrodes are placed on the skin on an area of the back pain.
This creates electrical impulses that move along the nerve fibers and create a tingling sensation. Pain relief usually begins immediately and stops immediately after treatment.
Another theory is that stimulating nerves can help the body produce natural painkillers called endorphin.
However, like acupuncture, most studies failed for back pain.
In a study of four studies comparing TENS with placebo, conflicting evidence made it difficult to determine whether TENS was beneficial in reducing back pain intensity.
Before starting TENS, ask your doctor or physical therapist to show you how to use TENS. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take the following precautions:
TENS is usually made with a TENS unit, a small battery operated device, which is charged.
The device can be connected to a belt and connected to two electrodes. Electrodes carry current from TENS to skin.
How TENS can help relieve back pain
There is very little research on TENS principles with the body - to support how TENS actually works.
Its use originated in the 1960s with the introduction of pain gate control theory.
In theory, stimulating nerves play a "gate" mechanism in the spinal cord, and that can help eliminate pain. During TENS treatment for back pain, electrodes are placed on the skin on an area of the back pain.
This creates electrical impulses that move along the nerve fibers and create a tingling sensation. Pain relief usually begins immediately and stops immediately after treatment.
Another theory is that stimulating nerves can help the body produce natural painkillers called endorphin.
However, like acupuncture, most studies failed for back pain.
In a study of four studies comparing TENS with placebo, conflicting evidence made it difficult to determine whether TENS was beneficial in reducing back pain intensity.
Use TENS
TENS, when used properly, is usually safe. If you think you want to try TENS for back pain, talk to your doctor. This technique works differently for different people and it is not for everyone. Your doctor may advise against using TENS if you have a pacemaker or you are in the first few weeks of pregnancy.Before starting TENS, ask your doctor or physical therapist to show you how to use TENS. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take the following precautions:
- Only use TENS when your doctor requires it. And: let your doctor know if your condition changes.
- Do not leave the electrodes in place for long periods without checking and cleaning the skin below them before practicing
- If the rash or burn develops below the electrodes and lasts more than six hours, stop TENS, and ask the therapist.
- Do not place electrodes on broken or irritated skin.
- Do not drive while using a TENS unit.
- Do not use the device in a bathroom or bathtub.
- Do not use TENS set with hot pads or cooler bags.
- Do not use TENS while sleeping.
Red more: Pros and Cons of Using TENS Devices
TENS unit placement for lower back pain
Make sure your skin is clean and dry. Never place pads over areas of broken or infected skin. In general, you want to place the pads directly over the location of pain. Avoid placing them on top of bony areas and aim for the softer muscle belly.
Pad placement is going to be key for effective TENS treatment
Make sure your skin is clean and dry. Never place pads over areas of broken or infected skin. In general, you want to place the pads directly over the location of pain. Avoid placing them on top of bony areas and aim for the softer muscle belly.
Run your fingers down your spine to feel the bony prominence’s. Once you have reached the level where your pain is located, move your fingers a few inches to each side. You should feel a meaty section of muscle running alongside your spine. Place one pad on each side of the spine, a few inches apart with the gel side against your skin.
If you have two channels with four pads, you can set them up in a square arrangement. While the pads must be at least one inch apart from each other, you can experiment with the exact distances to find what is most comfortable and effective for you.
Keep in mind that the further the distance between the pads, the less intense stimulation you will feel.
Best TENS unit for lower back pain
This TENS unit is powerful. I did not go past 6 for intensity level and found the Hi-Lo combo to be the sweet spot. Everyone is different of course so experiment to find the best setting.
Once I zeroed in on my preferred setting my lower back pain disappeared completely.
I have tried dozens of TENS units but this one felt different. The Hi-Lo combo setting delivered a pleasant but strong enough stimulation that it effectively blocked the pain signals from my lower back. This is well worth the $80 I paid. It is a bit pricey but it works to alleviate lower back pain. So using the TENS setting will provide immediate and quick relief from your lower back pain.
Choose the best TENS: TENS - EMS - Store
TENS and back pain - A-Z guide
Reviewed by DCPTAO
on
1:42 AM
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Reviewed by DCPTAO
on
1:42 AM
Rating:
It is safe for most people to use a TENS unit , and they will not usually experience any side effects.
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