Saturday, May 28, 2011

The Use Of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

The Use Of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
By Adriana Noton


The use of electrical current produced by a device to stimulate nerves therapeutically is the definition of a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device. These therapeutic devices are most commonly used in hospitals and physical therapy offices to help patients get relief from chronic and even acute pain. TENS units were first used back long ago for pain control.

Taking the presented nerve stimulation and controlling pain idea, the TENS unit was created. Numerous devices were used daily to help relieve headaches and other pain. 1974 brought us the very first patented portable nerve stimulating device. These were used primarily for tolerance of pain in patients until doctors confirmed that they actually relieved pain.

Intended for the testing of pain tolerance in patients only, pain relief came from using these units. After this information got around, more devices were produced and distributed. Today doctors and physical therapists everywhere rely on these units for patient pain relief.

Being portable now these nerve stimulators are not only used in doctor offices and physical therapy suites. Many patients are able to purchase and take them anywhere for use as needed. Some swear by these devices and others can't use them because they make their pain even worse. It is always best to discuss these types of pain relieving methods before making any decisions. Professionals everywhere can help you research and make the best choice.

Safe and non-invasive, TENS units are intended to relieve or reduce pain of all types, acute and chronic. Cell death can occur with long time use of these devices so doctors and therapists alike recommend only using them short term. If cell death occurs, most patients heal on their own without any difficulty.

Placing the electrodes of a device directly over a pacemaker or the spinal column is never recommended. Due to acute hypo-tension that may occur, placing electrodes on the front of the neck is not a good idea either. The increase of intro-vascular pressure could be the result if electrodes are placed over the eyes. These untie are never to be placed on wounds, though around the wound could relieve pain, and never on broken skin.

Activation of opioid receptors in the central nervous system is produced by the high and low frequencies produced by these nerve stimulating devices. Serotonin receptors are also activated in the spinal cord due to stimulation. Activation of serotonin among these other effects are how the units are able to control one's pain. Keep in mind that these devices do not work in all cases. Some have found they cause more pain and some have found pain relief.

If pain controls you and up your life, talk to your doctor or physical therapist about using a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device. It works for most but not for some and the only way to find out if it works for you is to do some research. There are websites available to help you better understand these units and what your options really are.




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The Use Of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

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