TENS

TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) AKA Home Electrical Stimulation

This therapy is used for both severe pain and pain lasting longer than three months. For these conditions, an at home TENS unit will be fitted in the office and the patient will be trained on how to use it. This therapy also stimulates the nerves to provide temporary pain relief. The way that that works is very similar to how a mother treats a small child who falls down and isn’t bleeding. A Mom’s first instinct is to rub on whatever hurts. This works because the information that says mommy’s hand is over here and then over here creates a rush of information to the brain. That information creates a traffic jam in the nerves and either prevents or reduces the nerve signal that carries the message of pain.   TENS also helps with edema (swelling) following acute injuries. The continued stimulation of the muscles creates a pumping action and works to decrease the swelling around the injured area.

The main advantage of this technique is you can apply it at home every 30 minutes if needed. It is important not to use this continuously. If during use your pads start to dry out simply rub a little water on them and stick them back on the plastic holders your were given. The water will re-hydrate your pads before your next treatment. If this problem persists ask your provider for a new set of pads.

Contraindications to TENS

Make sure to let your doctor know if you have any of the following conditions: Pregnancy, malignancy (cancer), pacemaker, open wounds.

Houston Injury Solutions Network
1216 East Main Street, Suite A
League City, TX 77573
Phone: 281-557-6882