Do tens machines work for nerve pain?

Are you tired of feeling like a live wire with nerve pain? Are your doctors advising drugs with side effects that make Charlie Sheen’s party habits look tame? Well, never fear, because we’re here to answer the big question…Do tens machines work for nerve pain?

What is a TENS Machine?

Before we establish whether this wonder machine will alleviate your pins and needles, it’s important to understand what one actually does. A Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) machine is essentially a pocket-sized pain management tool. It works by delivering small electrical impulses through electrodes attached to the skin.

How Does it Help with Nerve Pain?

Great question! In very basic terms, TENS machines aim to intercept or ‘confuse’ the messages sent between nerves and our brains which cause us so much discomfort [1]. Essentially reducing incoming signals from painful areas. For instance, if someone has persistent lower back problems due to compressed nerves around their lumbar spine then using a tens machines can help in reducing these signals from being transmitted towards the brain.

While many believe that TENS units stimulate endorphin release – responsible for boosting our mood and helping us fight off pain – there’s little scientific evidence on this front[2].

That said; if something seems too good to be true – as Dad always says – then it probably is.

So let’s get down into detail: research on this therapy reflects significant improvement over time post-TAS treatment, not only regarding acute localized muscle tension but also long-term functional freedom [3].

So…Does it Actually Work?

The great debate surrounding electric stimulations continues amongst scientists everywhere yet one scientific consensus states “the efficacy of standard (non-invasive) TAS therapies remains controversial” ([4]).

Although some people find relief from its usage[others didn’t experience any improvements [1]]; it is apparent that thus far, there’s no definitive answer to the question of how well TENS machines work in treating nerve pain.

It’s important to bear in mind: every person’s nervous system is different; not everyone will respond identically even under standard treatments.

That said; there is optimism for those experiencing electrotherapy as a treatment option, but we’re not here today to break down medical literature – let’s chat about the likelihood of you benefitting from using product XYZ[insert random device name].

What Should You Consider?

If our musings so far have sparked your interest then consider following tips before making your first purchase:

1. Consult and Get Approval From Your Doctor

Jumping on board with novel treatment methods can be tempting – who doesn’t want a quick fix right? But before beginning TAS therapy make sure that:

  • You discuss this course of medication with your GP,
  • Ensure (s)he approves of such interventions,

The reason being that some people are allergic or hypersensitive to electric stimulation, which could worsen their condition rather than relieving it.

But don’t worry too much about disturbing your dream doc – current research indicates “TAS therapies may provide an alternative and valuable therapeutic modality for drug-resistant chronic neuropathic pain.” ([5])

### 2. Finding the Right Stimulator
As various types exist like small battery-operated ones fit in a pocket, more extensive equipment frequently accompanies special cases like after surgical intervention or essential care at home usage [6].

In customizing test result values/electric impulses intensity, it would help if you looked out for features such as sensitivity levels adjustment options based on location/ region/intensity alteration button pads & pulse duration settings since these all affect personalized relief rates.

Keep scrolling!

3. Don’t Forget Maintenance Needs

Even though most devices are straightforward to use, they require more than just turning the switch on and off. Your machine has a lot going on like:

  • battery life replacement
  • cleaning requirements
  • electrode maintenance procedures

By ensuring you know how to keep your gadget clean, working correctly is essential for creating an efficient and comfortable experience.

4. Cost Across Product Lines Varies Significantly!

Just because it has a hefty price tag doesn’t imply it’s superior quality!

In some cases with these devices, tipping over in one purchase direction could lead to wasted money [7]; consider choosing TAS machines priced from mid-level categories based upon proper research recommendations rather than assuming exorbitant costs reflect product efficiency.

Conclusion

While TENS machines can provide relief for certain patients experiencing nerve pain[1], its efficacy isn’t set in stone.

We recommend discussing TAS therapy options thoroughly with professionals & doing adequate device research before making any purchases such as:

  • Approved by doctor selected stimulation device models,
  • ‘Easy-on-the-Pocket’priced,
  • Personalizable electric impulse settings/electrodes flexibility,
  • Keeping them regularly maintained/cleaned.

We hope this article provides insight into whether TAS machines effectively relieve chronic neuropathic discomfort or are better served as pizza paddles! 😂

[1] Davis M,Walsh D.Lancet Neurol.Nerve pain:transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS).[Internet].2012 Dec;11(12):1019–21.Available from:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3528015/.

[2] Current state of knowledge about transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for acute and chronic pain [Internet].2006 Mar.Available from:http://europepmc.org/backend/ptpmcrender.fcgi?accid=sys0028313&blobtype=pdf

[3] Srbely J, Dickey JP.Laser Therapy.Relevance of the Electromodulative Health Intervention in physical Rehabilitation. [Internet]2012 Mar.;21(1):30–4.Available from:https://journals.lww.com/lasersinmedicalscience/Abstract/2006/01000/Clinical_relevance_of_the_electromodulative_health.6.aspx

[4] Scientific Opinion on health complications resulting from electrical and non-ionizing radiation exposure (November 23, 2015). [Internet]. Available from https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/reveh-2016-0019/html

[5] Chow RYL, Johnson MI,Loppnow L et al . Efficacy of Electrotherapy Modalities for Chronic Low Back Pain:a Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis [Internet].2020 Jul;51(7):1093–102.Available from:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7330178/

[6] Gelmetti C,Damaskos M,Kang J,Cheung K,Ahmed ZP.Machines used within Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation practice.[internet].[updated June 18th,2022];Available at https://pmr.med.uoc.gr/mycourses/sites/default/files/placeholders/users/gelmetk/christina_gelm.html.htm

[7]Stanos S.G.,Argoff CE.Functional Electrical Stimulation Applications to Reduce Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain[Cited online(May29th)]Posted date(July 27,2011)Available at
http://practicalpainmanagement.com/treatments/function-electrical-stimulation-applications-reduce-chronic-musculoskeletal-pain

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