Back pain is common for people of all ages, yet it can be difficult to treat. The discomfort associated with lower back pain can make it difficult to perform everyday activities. One option is TENS unit therapy.
TENS units are Medicines Management systems that could deal with back pain and other types of discomfort. However, many individuals do not understand what a TENS unit is for or how it operates. If you’re someone who fits this description, there are a few key factors that will help you better understand how this device works, and point you in the right direction of curing your chronic back pain.
What is a TENS Machine?
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Before you buy TENS machine you should know that is not a machine at all, it's actually just an electronic device that sends electronic impulses to the body through wires that are attached to electrodes. The electrodes are placed on or near the area of pain and deliver a mild electric current. Most of these machines also have a timer that helps control how long the electrodes are left in place and provides an easier way to ensure you're getting adequate treatment on a regular basis.
How Does it Work?
A TENS machine uses micro-current electrical signals to stimulate nerve cells in the body. When these signals are sent through the body, they block the signals that cause pain, making it possible for patients to gain pain relief without taking drugs or consuming other remedies.
Nerve Retraining
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Pain relief with TENS is the result of nerve retraining. It's a pain management technique that uses electrical stimulation to help re-train your nerves to send messages to the brain about where you are feeling pain. The idea is that if the brain receives faulty information from the nerves, it will try to compensate by generating incorrect responses, such as inflammation and muscle spasms. TENS can help reduce pain by helping your brain get a better handle on what's really happening in your body.
Reduced Inflammation
TENS machines ease inflammation, which is a significant factor in chronic pain. When you're in pain, your muscles clench up to guard against further injuries. This causes more tension and more pain. Using a TENS machine regularly helps prevent your muscles from tightening up so much, reducing their overall tension. That in turn reduces inflammation and allows the tight muscles to relax, relieving the pain.
No Side Effects
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The TENS machine does not produce any side effects because it does not introduce any type of drug or medicine to the affected area. It merely blocks pain signals from reaching the brain. This makes it an ideal treatment for individuals who are allergic or sensitive to most medicines and drugs. The best thing about this type of treatment is that it is safe and effective in relieving chronic pain. However, there are a few situations when you should avoid using TENS:
- If you've just had surgery, wait until your doctor clears you for physical therapy with the use of a TENS machine
- If you have heart disease or any type of cardiac arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat, consult with your doctor before using a TENS machine
- If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before using a TENS machine
- If you're on medication like narcotics or sedatives, consult with your doctor before using a TENS machine
Affordable
For those on a budget, the initial cost when you buy tens machine can be an obstacle. But don't let that keep you from making an investment in your health. The cost of back pain treatments like acupuncture or massage therapy can quickly add up, and with the decline of options like visiting the chiropractor, there are plenty of people who are looking for alternatives. By choosing to use a TENS machine at home, you'll be able to get all of the benefits of professional treatment without ever setting foot inside a clinic. It's important to find the right TENS machine for you since they vary in price and features, but that doesn't mean you need to spend a lot of money to get what you need.
Easy to Use
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TENS units can be used by both men and women, whether they are suffering from chronic or temporary back pain. These units are small and easy to use, making them ideal for taking with you when travelling or using at work throughout the day. They come in several different sizes, shapes, and styles depending on your level of comfort. Some features include timers so you can set your unit to turn off after a certain period of time or even attach it to a belt clip so it will stay with you at all times. The biggest benefit of these units is that they allow you to get relief from back pain without having to take powerful medications or turn to invasive procedures like surgery.
To Sum Up
A TENS unit can be an effective, safe and non-invasive way to manage your back pain. It's designed specifically with the intent to treat chronic back pain and other discomfort symptoms caused by a variety of conditions. When used appropriately and in conjunction with other pain management treatments, a TENS unit could be the solution you've been looking for in order to help you manage your chronic back pain.
