An Introduction to TENS Therapy

In our childhood, tingling and cuddling never failed to make us laugh. But as the time is elapsing and we are getting busier by each day passing, these memories are fading away from our minds. And yet, as you read these lines with your spine getting stiffer with each day passing, your happiness and relief still lie in tingling! Let’s soothe your taut body receptors and muscles by probing into the miraculous TENS therapy.

So the first question that we must ask ourselves is that what does TENS stands for? TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation. Transcutaneous means across or through the depth of skin. Now let’s probe a bit into the composition of a TENS unit.

A TENS machine consists of sticky pads and battery. The sticky pads are our electrodes. Pads are placed upon the skin, upon turning the device on, electric impulses are generated. The magnitude of these pulses is one that is not of a massive range. Rather they feel like a tingle when felt by the body. This tingling sensation is solely upon what TENS relies on. Prickly feeling thus produced has a galvanizing effect upon muscles. Pain alleviation is achieved in TENS via the following strategy. Electric current (of order not so large) acts upon pain signals which move via different arcs towards the central nervous system. Once these pain signals are reduced, pain is automatically cut down.

In addition to acting upon pain signals, TENS also triggers the release of Endorphins. These chemicals are synthesized de novo and are known as “The positive chemicals”. Although they do not mimic morphine but what they do is that they bind on to opiate receptors. It naturally leads to what we call a good feeling in our body. However, endorphin binding does not lead to addiction.

So now we have a basic idea as to how this device works and also, we have a rough sketch in our mind about what is its essential purpose. Let’s widen our spectrum and have a look at how TENS therapy is manipulated differently at different places. The Physical therapists use electrodes which are made of rubber. These electrodes are placed upon the skin, and they perform the therapy. Acupuncturists usually have other ideas about using a TENS unit. They connect the device to acupuncture needles. The Later strategy has a stronger effect as compared to the former. Chinese are obsessed with energy flow, so they are employing this tool to build up the flow.

There is a lot of controversy as to whether TENS can be used for soothing effects or not. However, after vigorous, recurring experiments expanding over the years, we are in a position that we can safely say Therapy via current is not completely dangerous.

While the unit itself is readily available, one must consult with their doctor or health care advisor as to whether TENS unit is suitable for one or not.

So it’s time to say goodbye to excruciating pains with just a TENS TINGLE!