TENS
TENS
Have you ever wished for a magic wand to make your pain disappear? While we can’t offer magic, at SwaHealth, we have something pretty close: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, or TENS for short. This amazing therapy uses gentle electrical pulses to help manage pain, and it’s changing lives for the better, every day.
What is TENS?
TENS is a pain relief method that uses low-voltage electrical currents. Don’t worry – it’s not like touching an electric fence! The currents are very mild and are delivered through small electrodes placed on your skin. These tiny electrical pulses interact with your nerve signals to help reduce pain.
How Does TENS Work?
Imagine your nerves as busy highways carrying pain messages to your brain. TENS works in two clever ways to interrupt this traffic:
TENS stimulates certain nerve fibers that close the “gates” to pain signals, keeping them from reaching your brain.
The electrical stimulation can trigger your body to release its own natural painkillers, called endorphins
What Can TENS Help With?
TENS is a versatile therapy that can help with many types of pain:
Tendinitis
What Can TENS Help With?
TENS is a versatile therapy that can help with many types of pain:
– Lower back pain
– Neck pain
– Arthritis
– Tendinitis
– Sports injuries
– Post-Surgery Rehab
– Motor Vehicle accident injuries
Your TENS Experience at SwaHealth
Here’s what you can expect when you come for a TENS session:
- Get comfortable: You’ll sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
- Electrode placement: Small, sticky pads (electrodes) are placed on your skin near the painful area.
- Power up: The TENS machine is turned on.
- Tingling sensation: You might feel a buzzing or tingling feeling. It doesn’t hurt – just let us know if it’s uncomfortable.
- Relax and relief: A typical session lasts 15-30 minutes. Many people find it very relaxing!
Why choose TENS?
TENS has several advantages that makes it a popular choice:
– Drug-free: It’s a great option if you want to avoid or reduce pain medications.
– Non-invasive: No needles, no surgery – just place the electrodes on your skin.
– Customizable: The intensity and frequency can be adjusted to suit your needs.
– Few side effects: TENS is generally very safe when used correctly.
Is TENS right for You?
While TENS is safe for most people, it’s not for everyone. You should avoid TENS if you:
– Are pregnant (except for labor pain management under medical supervision)
– Have a pacemaker or other electrical implant
– Have epilepsy
– Have broken skin or open wounds in the treatment area
At SwaHealth, the expert Physiotherpists may after proper diagnosis of your condition, use TENS as part of a comprehensive pain management plan. This might include:
– Exercises to improve strength and flexibility
– Manual therapy techniques
– Heat or cold therapy
– Lifestyle modifications
Your therapist will work with you to create a plan that addresses all aspects of your pain and overall health.
What to Expect After TENS
Many people feel relief during and immediately after a TENS session. You might notice:
– Reduced pain in the treated area
– Improved mobility
– A sense of relaxation
For some, the effects last for hours after treatment. Others may need regular sessions to maintain pain relief. Everyone’s experience is unique!
TENS therapy offers a drug-free, non-invasive way to manage various types of pain. At SwaHealth, we’re excited to offer this innovative treatment as part of our commitment to your health and well-being.
Ready to zap your pain away? Give us a call today and explore how TENS can be part of your pain management solution!
