For many people with chronic pain increasing the level of drugs to deal with the pain may not be the best solution. Have you considered using a TENS unit instead? I first heard of TENS units for pain when I was looking for something to help my elderly father who loves his garden but finds that he can't work longer than twenty minutes without being in severe pain from his back. To try to find a solution we tried a few different methods but the one he has come to rely on is his TENS unit. He now works in the garden until the pain starts to become unbearable, comes in and puts on his machine for twenty minutes then is able to return to his garden again.
What is TENS?
TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. 'Transcutaneous' means that it works by applying 'electrical nerve stimulation' directly to the skin in the area where there is pain. The electrical stimulation sends low voltage pulses through the nerves which are transmitting the pain messages to the brain, effectively blocking the pain signals. When applied the stimulation feels light a mild tingle at low levels but can be felt as pain if you set the voltage too high.
How does a TENS unit relieve pain?
TENS machines can be used in two ways. As above to block the pain or at a lower pulse rate to encourage the production of endorphins, the body's own pain killers. This allow the effect of using the machine to last after you switch it off. Hand held TENS machines usually have controls to change the pulse rate, pulse intensity and an automatic timer to switch off the machine after a pre-set time. For effective pain relief around thirty minutes is usually recommended.
Can I use a TENS unit for all types of pain?
The most effective use of these types of machines is for chronic pain from muscles, joints or nerves. many people use them for the relief of chronic back pain which is very widespread. They can also be used for the pain arising from arthritis, RSI (repetitive strain injury) fibromyalgia and even for labour pain. They should not be used for pain arising from medical conditions such as appendicitis or hepatitis.
How safe are TENS units?
Tens machines are very safe as long as you follow a few simple safety rules. You should not place the electrodes on any area with broken skin or on wounds, on numb areas, in the mouth, on each temple, directly on the groin or near the eyes. They have not been tested for safety before 37 weeks of pregnancy although they can be used during labour under medical supervision.
Can I use a TENS unit during labor?
These machines are becoming more and more popular to relieve labor pains without the use of drugs. They are used in two ways, on a high pulse rate during a contraction to dull the pain and on a low pulse rate between contractions to stimulate endorphin production. It is best to begin the use right at the beginning of labour to encourage endorphin stimulation before the pain becomes intense. As noted above however they should always be used with your medical practitioners consent.
Are TENS units expensive?
You can buy a simple machine for around $20 although you will have to replace the electrodes regularly. Units that include muscle stimulation as well as nerve stimulation are more expensive and can be up to about $400. They are widely available and you don't need a prescription to buy one.
Conclusion
TENS units are a safe, cheap alternative to drugs for the relief of chronic pain. Although not everyone finds them effective many people, including my father, wouldn't be without one! If you are looking for relief and don't want to rely on ever increasing dosages of pain medication then you should give one a try.
For more information on TENS units see The Top Five Best Portable Tens Units or Cheap TENS Machines for Sale.
Image attribution http://www.flickr.com/photos/physio/ / CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
