Looking forward

Pain Management

TENS Transcutaneous Nerve Stimulation

Information on the use of TENS in pain management

Southern Rehab | TENS

Looking forward

What is TENS? The benefit of TENS is that it is a safe, ‘drug free’ method of pain management. It acts through pads placed on the skin, sending small electrical impulses to the underlying nerve fibres (transcutaneous means ‘through the skin’).

How does TENS work? Nerve fibres carry sensations such as touch, warmth, pressure and pain. TENS can work in two ways:

> It can “block” the arrival of danger signals from reaching areas of the brain that create the pain experience.

> It stimulates nerves to release endorphins, which your body produces naturally. These have an analgesic effect that are helpful for pain. These act a bit like morphine and reduce the experience of pain.

How long should I use it for?We recommend that at first you try TENS for at least one hour, three times a day. You can use the TENS for as long as you need, as long as you take some breaks. After each treatment check your skin when you remove the pads. Your skin may appear red and this is normal. This redness should fade within an hour. If you have any problems, please contact your therapist.

How long does the pain relief last? Some patients find that the pain eases only when the machine is running. Others find that the pain is eased for several hours or even days. However, you may also find that TENS does not help your pain at all. We are unable to predict who is likely to benefit the most, so a trial of TENS use with different settings is the best way to discover what works best for you..

Southern Rehab | TENS

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How should I feel during the treatment? The sensation of TENS depends on the settings used. The feeling is often described as tingling, buzzing and pulsing. To gain maximum benefit, the sensation should be strong but not painful.

How do I use the TENS machine?> Always make sure the machine is switched off before starting.

> Make sure the selected skin area is clean and dry and the skin is not broken or numb. You should also refrain from using any body lotions, creams or talc on the selected area as these will stop the pads sticking to your skin.

> Firstly, connect the pads to the pins on the electrode wires.

> Your therapist will show you where the pads can be placed, but usually they are placed on or around the painful area and at least one pad width apart.

> Always apply the pads before switching the machine on.

> Connect the electrode wires to the TENS machine, then switch on the TENS machine.

> Slowly increase the intensity (by turning the dials) until you feel a ‘strong but comfortable’ tingling sensation. This should not be painful.

> When turning the machine off, turn the intensity down slowly.

> Switch off the TENS machine, disconnect the electrode wires and then remove the pads.

> Store the pads in their original packaging when not in use.

When should you NOT use the TENS machine? Most people can use a TENS machine, but there are some exceptions:

> TENS is not recommended if you have certain heart conditions or have a pacemaker

> TENS is not recommended during pregnancy

> TENS is not recommended if you have epilepsy

Southern Rehab | TENS

Looking forward

What precautions should I take when using TENS?> Do not apply pads over an area of reduced skin sensation or broken/damaged skin

> Do not use when driving or using machinery (a sudden change in stimulation may cause you to lose concentration)

> Never place the pads over jewellery, for example; a necklace.

> Do not use when sleeping

> Do not get the TENS machine or leads wet

> Do not let the TENS pads touch each other

The TENS machine is only to be used by the person it has been issued to by a therapist.

Care of the TENS machine and electrodes• The machine can be cleaned with a soft, slightly damp cloth.

• Please replace 9v alkaline battery correctly

• Always replace the pads onto the original backing and store in the sealed pocket when not in use.

If you have any questions or concerns please get in touch with your therapist at Southern Rehab.

southernrehab.co.nz