Can I Use a Tens Unit on My Neck
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a method of pain relief involving the use of a mild electric current.
A TENS auto is a small-scale, battery-operated device that has leads connected to sticky pads called electrodes.
You attach the pads direct to your skin. When the motorcar is switched on, minor electric impulses are delivered to the affected area of your body, which yous feel as a tingling sensation.
The electrical impulses can reduce the hurting signals going to the spinal string and brain, which may help relieve pain and relax muscles. They may likewise stimulate the production of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers.
What TENS is used for
TENS may be able to help reduce pain and musculus spasms caused by a wide range of weather including:
- arthritis
- menses pain
- pelvic pain caused past endometriosis
- knee hurting
- neck pain
- sports injuries
It's too sometimes used as a method of pain relief during labour.
Does TENS work?
At that place'south not plenty expert-quality scientific bear witness to say for sure whether TENS is a reliable method of pain relief. More research is needed and clinical trials are ongoing.
Healthcare professionals have reported that information technology seems to help some people, although how well it works depends on the individual and the condition being treated.
TENS is not a cure for pain and oftentimes just provides short-term relief while the TENS motorcar is being used.
However, the treatment is more often than not very safe and you may feel it'south worth trying instead of, or in addition to, the usual medical treatments.
Trying TENS
If you're thinking nearly trying TENS, it's a good thought to speak to a GP about a referral to a physiotherapist or hurting dispensary.
A physiotherapist or hurting specialist may be able to loan you a TENS motorcar for a curt period if they think it could help.
You lot can choose to buy your ain TENS automobile without getting medical advice, but it'southward generally amend to have a proper cess first, so you can find out whether a TENS machine is appropriate for you and be taught how to use it properly.
To become the near benefit from TENS, it'due south important that the settings are adjusted correctly for you and your individual condition.
If you lot find TENS effective, you lot tin buy a TENS automobile from a pharmacy. They range in price from about £10 to £200. More expensive machines are not necessarily any better than lower-priced ones, then information technology'southward all-time to exercise some research before you lot buy.
How to use TENS
This is a general guide on how to use a TENS machine. Always follow the manufacturer's specific instructions.
TENS machines are small-scale and lightweight, then you tin can use them while working or on the move. You lot can put information technology in your pocket, prune it to your belt or hold it in your hand.
Yous can use TENS throughout the solar day for as long as y'all like, although it should not be used while you're driving, operating mechanism, or in the bath or shower.
Positioning the pads
Make sure the machine is switched off before y'all attach the pads to your skin. Position the pads either side of the painful area, at least ii.5cm (1 inch) apart.
Never place the pads over:
- the forepart or sides of your neck
- your temples
- your rima oris or optics
- your chest and upper back at the aforementioned time
- irritated, infected or cleaved skin
- varicose veins
- numb areas
Turning it on and adjusting the force
Plough on the TENS machine when the pads are attached in the correct places. You'll experience a slight tingling awareness laissez passer through your pare.
The machine has a dial that allows yous to command the force of the electric impulses.
Start on a low setting and gradually increase information technology until the sensation feels potent only comfortable. If the tingling sensation starts to experience painful or uncomfortable, reduce it slightly.
Switch the TENS motorcar off after yous've finished using it and remove the electrodes from your skin.
Are in that location any risks of side effects?
For about people, TENS is a rubber treatment with no side effects.
Some people may exist allergic to the pads and their pare may become red and irritated, merely special pads for people with allergies are available.
TENS is not safe for anybody to utilise. Do not use it without starting time getting medical communication if:
- you lot take a pacemaker or another type of electrical or metal implant in your trunk
- you're pregnant, or there's a chance you lot might exist meaning – TENS may not be recommended early in pregnancy
- you take epilepsy or a centre problem
Page last reviewed: 10 Baronial 2018
Next review due: 10 August 2021
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/transcutaneous-electrical-nerve-stimulation-tens/
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