TENS is a easy to use electronic method of pain relief used by physiotherapists and hospital pain clinics since the 1960's.
TENS is an abbreviation of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. Transcutaneous means "across the skin". In simple terms, a TENS machine stimulates your nerves via an electrical current through your skin.
A TENS machine is usually a small battery operated box that produces pain relieving electrical pulses. Either two (single channel) or four (dual channel) self-adhesive electrodes are applied to the skin and attached to the TENS machine with lead wires.
Modified electrical pulses are then passed from the TENS machine via the lead wires and TENS machine electrodes, to the nerves which lie underneath the skin surface. The experience you normally feel is a comfortable tingle. Importantly, your TENS machine application should never feel painful.
The TENS electrodes are normally positioned over the area of pain but other more advanced applications may often prove better. Your physiotherapist is an expert in the application of a TENS machine. You are best advised to seek their professional advice for the most-effective results.
