A Tens Machine Can Assist With Pain Management

By Author: Colin Sutton
Total Articles: 43
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A Tens machines can be an important device to assist with pain management. This is a practical and virtually side effect free way to combat the pain associated with a wide number of conditions and injuries.

Why use a Tens Machine

Dealing with chronic and acute pain can be challenging. Conventional pain medications by necessity have to be strong. This means that although they are useful for reducing pain they can also have a number of other effects on the body. This can include some negative side effects such as headaches, nausea and even addiction.

One of the main advantages of a Tens machine is that they can successful reduce the sensation of pain in a more natural way. Unlike pain medication a Tens machine has been shown not to cause any negative side effects on the body. This means they can be used safely for both long and short-term pain relief.

Patients Guide to Using a Tens Machine

Many patients are worried about using a Tens machine because they work by sending out electrical pulses. However these pulses are so tiny they do not harm the body in any way or cause pain. These tiny pulses ...
... mimic the type of natural electrical signals used to carry pain related information around the body. When you apply the electrodes from a Tens machine to an affected area the pulses will interfere with these signals and effectively block pain.

- Using a Tens machine is very straightforward and here are a few tips to help you get the best out of this treatment process:

- If you are an active person then you may want to invest in a smaller portable Tens machine. These can be worn comfortably on your belt or put in your pocket. Once you have fixed the electrodes in place you can then move around easily whilst you are receiving your treatment. Portable Tens machines are also useful if you need to travel a lot.

- Try to avoid placing the electrodes on the same patches of skin each time you use a Tens machine. This can cause some mild irritation and redness, particularly if you use medical tape as well to keep the electrodes in place. Alternate the application sites and avoid applying to broken skin. It can also help if you moisturise your skin regularly to prevent it from beginning dry (this will make it more prone to irritation).

- Check that the machine is switched off before you apply or remove the electrodes from your skin.

- For the maximum affects you will need to place the electrodes from your Tens machine as close as possible to the area of pain. Make sure you place them at least 2 to 3 cm (1 inch) apart though during use.

Colin Sutton is an author that for many years has written articles and advice on such subjects as how a Tens machine is an important device that can assist with pain management. Ten machines are safe to use long term and do not cause any negative side effects and are a great alternative to pain relief.