Are you on a quest to find the best TENS units for back pain?
Then you’re in the right place. Because I have done the hard work for you and have reviewed dozens of models.
In addition, I will introduce the following related topics.
- Product Details (Including advantages and disadvantages)
- Benefits Of Using a TENS Unit
- TENS Unit for Treating Sciatica – Top Features to Look For
- Buyer’s Guide: Important Considerations When Choosing TENS Units
- TENS Units Types
…
I will also answer some common questions.
- What Is The TENS Unit?
- How To Use A TENS Unit?
- Does The TENS Machine Work?
- How Do The TENS Unit Work?
- What Side Effects Are Associated With The TENS Unit?
- Can You Use The TENS Unit Safely During Pregnancy?
- Why Will I Need TENS Units Replacement Pads?
- What Are The Differences Between The EMS And TENS?
- Is A Prescription Required?
- How Safe Is TENS Therapy?
- …
Without further ado, let’s begin!
Sooner or later, a majority of people will experience some kind of back pain. Whether it chronic pain due to an injury or just tight muscles following a long workout at the gym, usually people search for remedies for their back problems. These day there are numerous alternative treatments for pain, and they don’t all involve using medication. Using TENS units is one of the more effective treatments. A TENS unit is the ideal companion for people suffering from back problems.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS, is a type of back pain treatment where low voltage electric current is used for relieving pain. TENS therapy can be applied at home by sufferers on their own without needing help from a physician. TENS units are portable and small units that can be transported easily and used anywhere. For people who have hectic, busy lifestyles, this is very convenient. The units are normally pre-programmed with massaging programs, that are administered through using elecrotherapy with pads.
WebMD states that there are 2 potential reasons why pain is relieved by TENS unit therapy: It might be due to the fact that the electricity from the electrodes is stimulating the nerves within the affected area and sending signals to the brain that scramble or block normal signals Or the electrical stimulation of the nerves might help the body with producing endorphins, which are natural pain killers that might block perception of pain.
A portable TENS unit is a battery-operated, pocket-size device that transmits electrical current over the nerve fibers and reduces pain as a consequence. Very low voltage electrical charges are used by TENS units and the electrical charge doesn’t cause any pain. TENS units are very small, so usually they are powered with simple AAA batteries or specially made for battery packs.
TENS Units for Back Pain Comparison Table
You can find TENS units online and they are made by various manufacturers. The devices are affordable but at times selecting the right unit may be confusing. That is why we have created this guide to assist you with helping you find the best ENS unit to meet your needs.
Best TENS Units for Bad Backs
- HealthmateForever HM8ML 8 Modes Best Portable Smart Electro Pain relief Machine
- TENS 7000
- FDA cleared HealthmateForever Touch Screen 12 mode TENS unit
- iReliev TOP-BEST TENS Massager Unit & (20) Electrode Pad Bundle–Excellent product
- FDA cleared HealthmateForever TENS unit Pro8AB 8 modes pain relief electrotherapy device–Excellent product
1. HealthmateForever HM8ML 8 Modes Best Portable Smart Electro Pain relief Machine – Best Budget TENS Unit
- ✔️Medical device: FDA 510K Cleared OTC for safety and...
- 8 MODES WITH TWO OUTPUTS & 20 INTENSITY LEVELS. This portable muscle...
- ► MILLIONS OF CLIENTS WORLDWIDE: Sufferers in over 100 countries...
- ► 10 YEARS OF RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT: Still Formulated & Designed by...
- As this device has Wireless Access, it is Compatible with WI9 Wireless...
If you are on a strict budget and the high cost of going to the chiropractor, medication and various other therapy options are hitting your wallet hard, then you may want to try this unit. It is among the most affordable, but you shouldn’t assume that just because it is affordable that it is cheap. The unit comes in a small package has been designed to provide top performance. The HealthmateForever TENS Unit is a portable, very small and lightweight electrotherapy device that offers pain relief via electric stimulation.
The thing I like the most about this TENS Unit is that it isn’t necessary to use disposable batteries with it. It comes with an internal lithium rechargeable battery that provide power for as long as 10 hours worth of continuous use. Compared to some of the other inexpensive TENS unit that is great since battery free results in it being lighter and easier to carry around with you in your pocket.
Another one of the features that I really like its simultaneous dual output design. This allows you to use the 6 pads in two different parts of your body. It is easy to stick these pads to your skin. On the top part of the pad there is also a small pull feature that is used to remove the pad from your skin without need to touch the gel that is on the underside.
This TENS Unit features 6 different programmed modes that allow you to select the the kind of pulse that you want. After you have selected the mode the strength of the pulses can then be adjusted using 20 different intensity levels, through simply pressing on the “+ button.” In addition this unit comes with a useful acupressure point chart that shows the different pressure points on the body and how they are linked to common pain areas.
This HealthmateForever TENS Unit is a lightweight and portable device that offers great value and is also effectively stimulates nerve endings which in turn provide relief to chronic and acute pain.
- Lightweight and portable
- 6 pulse modes
- Internal lithium rechargeable battery
- 20 intensity levels
- 6 reusable pads
- Dual system output for targeting two areas of your body simultaneously
- Extra set of electrodes is provided
- Affordable
- Lifetime warranty
- Comes paint point and acupressure chart
- Instructions are somewhat confusing to understand
- The electrode pads may only be used a couple of times before they start losing their adhesive strength
- It might be a bit complicated to determine the best settings for you
- Appears to have a limited warranty. Need to pay $20 to have a replacement shipped to you
2. TENS 7000 – Editors’ Choice & Best Seller
- NEED PRESCRIPTION STRENGTH PAIN RELIEF? A TENS unit muscle stimulator...
- OVER 1M TENS 7000 DEVICES SOLD: A consumer over the counter favorite...
- A LEADER SINCE 2008: A 10+ year favorite TENS device among medical...
- GET IMMEDIATE PAIN RELIEF: TENS machine comes with multiple TENS...
- DUAL CHANNEL TENS UNIT: The TENS 7000 TENS unit provides TENS therapy...
This unit is sold under the ROSCOE as well as the Balego brand names. The unit was designed as an electro-stimulator for relieving pain in the joints and muscles for rehabilitation programs. It comes with a powerful 9V batter that offers up to 48 hours worth of treatment. Four individual electrodes are included along with an attractive carrying case. This is an outstanding TENS unit for pain relief within inflamed areas, shoulder tensions, inflamed joints or discs or back pain. It is not only safe to use, but also easy to operate, effective, reliable and affordable. Pulse frequency and with is adjustable using the five operation modes: Strength Duration 2, Strength Duration 1, Modulation, Normal and Burst.
Electro muscle stimulation for rehabilitation and pain management is a very popular technique and this TENS 7000 is among the most popular units to achieve results with. Despite having only five “modes,” frequency and pulse modulation are clearly displayed and completely adjustable. Although it technically is channel settings, dual channel, the intensity level is the only independent selection. A swing out cover protect the adjustment buttons. This unit overall is very capable and also very affordable.
The TENS 7000 is basically an upgraded version of the very popular TENS 3000, which is difficult to find now. It has superb built quality bit is not lightweight. However, when it comes to an EMS unit it really delivers, and you can afford two with a price at around $30.
- Five modes for treating any symptom
- Dual channels
- Lots of duration and power
- Not rechargeable
- Somewhat bulkier than comparable models
3. FDA cleared HealthmateForever Touch Screen 12 mode TENS unit – Editors’ Choice & Professional’s Choice
- FDA CLEARED TENS UNIT & PMS MACHINE. 3.75” LCD screen with backlit...
- 8 PRE-PROGRAMMED MODES WITH TWO OUTPUTS & 20 INTENSITY LEVELS. 8...
- FDA 510K CLEARED LEADING TENS PADS& INDEPENDENT A/B CHANNELS. Includes...
- EASY TO CARRY. Enough battery life for up to 20 hours of continuous...
- KIT INCLUDES & WARRANTY. 1 x Dual Channel TENS Machine, 4 x 3"*1.75"...
The HealthmateForever Touch Screen TENS Unit s the size of an iphone yet makes you feel as if you just visited your local therapist. This unit costs more than an average TENS Unit does, but is well worth the investment.
I really like the touch screen on this device since it allows you to simply touch a button to choose one of the 12 different modes that are available.
Another excellent feature is being able to target not only two different parts of your body with one unit but also the intensity levels can be changed by the user for the two separate areas. What that means is that if one of the areas is more painful than the other one, the intensity level can be increased on the area that is more painful without having to change the other area’s intensity level.
This unit is lightweight and portable. It features a locking system that lets you walk around with it without needing to worry about turning it off or changing its settings. There are 20 intensity levels on this device that may be changed independently or in channels A or B.
If you are searching for a high quality TENS Unit that will provide pain relief for joint pain, muscle spasms, herniated disks, joint pain, rotator cuff injuries, tension pain, or arthritis, then this HealthmateForever Touch Screen TENS Unit may be your best option.
- Lifetime warranty
- Lock system, means when you move around the setting will not change
- Comes with a touch screen
- Each channel’s intensity can be changed independently
- Dual channels for targeting to different painful areas at the same time
- 12 modes
- 20 intensity levels
- Portable and lightweight
- Most expensive than what the average TENS Unit costs
4. iReliev TOP-BEST TENS Massager Unit & (20) Electrode Pad Bundle – Excellent Product
- FDA CLEARED TENS UNIT & PMS MACHINE. 2" W x 3.5" L LCD touchscreen...
- 12 MODES WITH TWO OUTPUTS & 20 INTENSITY LEVELS. This portable muscle...
- FDA 510K CLEARED LEADING TENS PADS& INDEPENDENT A/B CHANNELS. Includes...
- EASY TO CARRY. Enough battery life for up to 20 hours of continuous...
- KIT INCLUDES & WARRANTY. 1 x TENS Machine, 4 x 3"*1.75" Hands...
The iRelieve unit offers EMS capabilities for muscle recovery and TENS technology for managing pain. Seven TENS modes increase endorphin output and block pain. Arthritis treatment has its own unique TENS modes and there are six EMS modes that provide massaging impulse for stimulating muscle activity and increasing blood flow. Select from sessions lengths ranging from five minutes to 60 minutes and 25 intensity levels. Independent control over two different body areas at the same time is provided by the dual channel design. place the large pads that are supplied on the painful areas directly. For larger treatment areas you can place smaller pads for a wider areas. Comes with a 1-year warranty and three AAA batteries.
Muscle conditioning capabilities and pain relief are provided the iRelie TENS/EMS combination unit, making it competitive with the highest rated TENS unit we are reviewing here. In addition the independent channels allow for customized treatment for different areas simultaneously. The EMS P1 setting is used for warming up the muscles before exercising, the P2-P4 are modes for exercise muscle recovery, and P5-P6 are for strength and endurance. You could expect it to be a rechargeable unit given its $60 price tag, however it is a great value still, when you consider the superior flexibility that the unit provides.
iReliev has a great design that combines muscle conditioning EMS and TENS pain relief. Use it to deal with post-exercise soreness or stiffness or to supplement exercise routines. The flexibility and power that it provides are impressive however we really wish that it was rechargeable. The iRelieve TENS Massage Unit has been approved by the FDA. It is an excellent small device that provides very good nerve stimulation and is able to relieve muscle spasm pain, carpel tunnel syndrome, arthritis, Sciatica, pinched nerves and joint pain.
- 1-year warranty is included
- Comes with various sized pads for different purposes
- Dual channels means you are able to treat two areas of your body with different programs simultaneously
- Automatic shut off whenever skin contact with the pad is lost
- 25 intensity levels offers more precise fine-tuning
- 8 modes
- Clip and holster are provided that makes it easy to carry
- 20 electrode pads are included
- Very portable
- Approximately the same size as a credit card
- Electrode pads begin losing their stickiness quickly
- Display is not backlit so in dim areas might be hard to read
- Not rechargeable
5. FDA cleared HealthmateForever TENS unit Pro8AB 8 modes pain relief electrotherapy device – Excellent Product
- WHAT IS TENS?: Stands for "Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve...
- FEATURES:The iReliev Pain Relief System Features 8 Pre-Programmed...
- SAFE & EFFECTIVE: FDA Cleared for Natural Pain Relief! The iReliev...
- WHY ITS BETTER: iReliev Technology is easier to use, More Effective,...
- FEATURES: DUAL Channel, which means you can use with 2 Pads for...
The unit is a EMS and TENS combination machine, so you receive two units for one price. You can target two different parts of your body at the same time with the machine. It helps with alleviating nerve and muscle pain from various conditions. You can relieve pain effectively in your shoulders, lower back and other parts, in addition to treating chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia and sciatica.
There are eight different modes featured on the unit along with many different settings for various purposes, ranging from helping with weight loss to pain management. It is really easy to use, lightweight and small. Unlike some machines it is not overly complicated. Rather than using traditional batteries that have a tendency to drain fast and get expensive over the long term, this unit comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. It can run for several sessions before it needs to be recharged.
It comes with instructions, charger, battery, replacement electrode pads, and a chart outlining the best placement points so that you can start to use it right away. The Forever in its name applies to the warranty as well, which is for the user’s lifetime, so you know you are purchasing an excellent product compared to what you could find inside a chiropractor’s office.
if you are having a difficult time trying to recover from an injury or can’t get the pain under control form your chronic condition, then you will want to try out a TENS unit for relief without medication. No matter what your issue happens to be, the HealthMate Forever Pro-8AB is a great choice to help you with pain relief. So whether you have chronic or acute pain that is major or minor, the unit has all of the various settings that you need for getting effective relief.
Double duty is pulled the this combo unit in that it targets nerve and muscular pain for effective and quick results. A lifetime warranty comes with it, which makes it a smart purchase for anybody who is searching for a more natural way of relieving and treating pain.
- Long battery life
- May be charged using a USB with a computer or a wall charger
- Comes with a chart outlining the best electrode positions
- Is very powerful
- One of the best warranties around
- Comes with eight different modes
- May be used for various purposes, including cupping and body building
- Comes with two channels so that two areas can be treated in different ways
- Easy to use
- Must be set correctly in order to prevent pain rather than emit jolts
- Has snap-on electrodes, making it harder to find replacement pads
- More expensive compared to many OTC units
What Are The Benefits Of Using a TENS Unit?
Although the results are temporary, numerous individuals do find that using a TENS unit on a regular basis can be very helpful with managing their chronic pain.
The following are some the benefits that it can provide:
- Fewer visits to the doctor
- Easier physical movement
- Anxiety and stress reduction
- Reduce irritability
- Endorphins are produced by electrical impulses which help to improve your mood
- Your need for pain medication can be reduced by using a TENS unit for managing your daily pain
- It can be used on the move, which is an excellent option for keeping you working and active without pain
- It gently massages and relaxes your sore muscles
- Send pain signals to your brain are block you get temporary relief from pain
TENS Unit For Treating Sciatica – Top Features To Look For:
Multiple Intensity Levels:
The device should range in intensity levels all the away from gentle pulses for sensitive areas all the way to powerful pulses to be used on larger muscle group. All of the models we are reviewing here come with at least 20 intensity levels.
Setting Options:
The key to obtaining relief is customization. Finding the correct mode for treating your condition is pain management. All of the units we have tested include settings modes for Cupping, Tap, Acupuncture, Knead and much more.
LCD Display:
The backlit LCD display enables you to navigate through various features easily both night and day.
Automatic Timer:
Nobody wants to have to check the clock in order to see how they have used their TENS unit for. The option for setting the timer so that you can relax, watch tv or read while using it is a must-have options when selecting a device. After the time is up, the device will shut off automatically.
Buyer’s Guide: Important Considerations When Choosing TENS Units
If you have decided to tackle your pain head-on, it is now time to make the purchase. Your physician can provide valuable input when it comes to choosing a unit that will match your needs or make recommendations regarding what you should be looking for. Here are some of the things to take into consideration and ensure that you make the right purchase decision.
#1 TENS Unit Brands
When you get to choosing a TENS unit, you will quickly realize that there are many manufacturers in the market. The following top brands all have different selling points with regards to marketing of their TENS units. Here are some top rated brands of TENS machines.
Omron is a TENS unit manufacturer that has been producing devices for over 2 decades and offers a wide range of units designed to reduce pain with sufficient power while producing the most compact units possible.
Balego is a TENS unit manufacturer from China that sells the very popular TENS 7000, which is dual-channel and has been branded as the Roscoe Medical DT6070. The TENS 3000 is another popular model from Balego.
HEalthmate manufactures a wide range of home beauty and health devices among them being an impressive collection of TENS units. The devices are very affordable and offer all the functions and features you can expect from a great TENS unit.
The TENS units from AccuRelief focus on affordability, colorful design, high portability, and innovation. The brand even has a wireless TENS unit and an attractive, 3-channel, standalone foot stimulator model ACRL-5500.
truMedic is a manufacturer that has been trusted by the medical profession for a long time. The brands luxurious and highly reliable TENS units make sure that you can reduce or even get rid of very severe lower back pains permanently.
Pure Enrichment claims that one of its missions is to provide customers with healthy, life-balancing devices that can be used at home. The brand offers easy-to-use TENS units that the FDA has approved for use at home.
Zewa is a brand that has been producing high quality TENS units for over 25 years. The portability and affordability of the TENS machines from the brand is the main reason for their popularity among customers.
#2. Price
TENS machines are currently available over-the-counter, which means that you can find them at different price points, from below $50 for basic units to several hundred dollars for advanced units. It is important to only go for something you can afford, but ensure that it has enough features to provide you with a personalized pain management program. It is critical that you balance out the price with the overall value to make the best decision with regards to buying your unit.
#3. Warranty
The fact is that electronics fail. Electronics may fail over time even if they are the best devices and even if they are handled with the best care. However, it is not unreasonable to expect to enjoy a lot of use out of your new purchase before it starts acting strangely. This is the reason why a warranty is so important. If something were to happen to your device after using it properly, the warranty backs the purchase so that you are not the one to pay when it comes to repairing or replacing the unit.
#4. Number of Electrodes
If you are experiencing pain in a large part of the body, you will need enough electrodes to cover the area adequately. Look for the number of electrodes that each unit supports. It is equally important to ensure that the replacement electrodes are readily available and are affordable.
#5. Settings
Pain is not all equal, even if you deal with a particular problem area every day. The pain may be worse on some days than it is on others. Ensure that the unit you buy offers several different options so that you can dial down or crank up the power as needed to provide relief without causing more injury.
#6. TENS Units Types
If you have discussed with your physician about using a TENS unit and you believe it might be beneficial when it comes to aiding your pain, but don’t fancy the idea of having to pay thousands of dollars for one, you can still buy one without a prescription, but only if you are fully aware of what to look for. You can start by understanding the different types available to you.
Miniature units are characterized by their small size. Most of them are cordless but still have the electronic mechanism built into a single piece with sticky electrodes. Miniature units might be quite inexpensive but tend to have very few settings options, which makes them less effective when compared to other units.
Combination units simply combine the functions of TENS units and Electronic Muscle Stimulator units. They work to help with muscular pain as well as pain caused by nerves. Combination units are ideal for treating a wide variety of conditions such as muscle aches and spasms.
HEalthmate manufactures a wide range of home beauty and health devices among them being an impressive collection of TENS units. The devices are very affordable and offer all the functions and features you can expect from a great TENS unit.
EMS and TENS units are quite distinct. Both offer electro-stimulation, but TENS units stimulate the nerves while EMS units stimulate the muscles. TENS units use low and high frequency current pulses in a small range of about 100ma. EMS units utilize cycles that induce muscle relaxation and contraction at different intensities from 1 to 130Mh. The cycles improve blood flow to the muscles while reducing inflammation. While the TENS units are primarily used to manage pain, EMS units are used for reversing muscle atrophy and retraining previously paralyzed muscles.
The difference between TENS units and Electronic Pulse Massagers is often without distinction. Strictly speaking, pure TENS units supply stimulation only to the nerve endings while the EPMS trigger the contraction of muscles too.
#7. Reviews
If you want to choose the right EMS or TENS unit, it is important to read through customer feedback and reviews. You will be able to get a good idea of how satisfied other users of the device are with their purchase and you might find answers to questions you might have about the product. The answers are from users such as yourself and sellers will sometimes actually provide answers to the questions. You can read the pros and cons of the product to determine which factors are important to you and the ones that are not so important.
#8. Features
Number of Pads:
This determines the number of parts of the body you can treat at once. Some of the devices actually have multi-channel controls that allow you to set different intensity of operation for different pads.
Pre-Set Modes:
First-time users will probably find it more preferable to choose a unit with pre-set programs or modes, which means that there will be less guesswork involved.
Rechargeable Batteries:
Some of the TENS units are actually rechargeable, which might translate to higher costs upfront, but could save you from having to buy replacement batteries later on.
Portability:
The portability will be affected by battery life as well as size and weight. If you plan to be leaving home with your TENS unit, choose a lightweight model with a battery that last long.
Usability:
Take into consideration how easily you are able to read the display as well as how easy it is to use the controls. The controls must be clearly and visibly labeled while the display must be easy to understand so that you are able to use the unit in the right way.
Additional Accessories:
Some units come with additional accessories such as extra pads, gel, and even spare batteries.
TENS Units Modes:
Standard Mode is about 50Hz to 200Hz with a 200μS (micro-Siemens) pulse for quick pain relief. (1 Siemens = 1 Ohm)
Burst Mode provides you with the same results as acupuncture. The unit emits short pulsating bursts that provide pain relief for much longer.
Modulation Mode has a continually cycling pulse width, which is almost similar to the burst method but feels like a massage by a therapist.
Digita LCD:
Digita LCD is an analog TENS unit that requires manual operation. If you would like to change the machine’s settings, you have to use the controls and dials that should be tweaked using the fingers. They are cheap to purchase, reliable, and easy to use even for the technologically challenged.
Digital LCD TENS units feature digital displays and operate as a modern cell phone does. They usually feature long warranty periods and multiple pre-set TENS program. They are completely customizable and adjustable, which means that they are able to provide all the options needed when it comes to TENS units. They cost more but if you would like to regularly vary your TENS massage, they are the right option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Is The TENS Unit?
A: TENS is the acronym which stands for: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. The TENS units are a representation of a non-invasive method for the treatment of pain without the need for medications or adverse side effects. The device works on pads or electrodes placed on the surface of the skin directly over painful areas. The electrodes send mild and low voltage impulses that work on blocking the pain signals. This electrical stimulation is believed to raise the endorphin levels that are natural pain-fighting chemicals.
The TENS therapy shows up beneficial results in a number of studies conducted involving treating acute and chronic pain. The relief from pain is said to last for a number of hours, or it can decrease the amount of the pain medication usually required. The TENS unit is believed to be beneficial for various conditions that include bursitis, tendinitis, lower back-pain, bone, joint and muscle problems. Massage therapists, physical therapists, acupuncturist or chiropractors often use the TENS unit in conjunction with their treatment plans.
If you suffer from persistent back pain, you are able to use the TENS machine a number of times throughout your day. You can use this device from home, work, in your car or even when you visit the gym, without having to be concerned that the device will get it in your way or become cumbersome.
Q: How To Use A TENS Unit
A: To begin with you need to prepare the electrodes or pads by wetting them using gel or water, according to the instructions from the manufacturer. Make sure you place the pads onto clean and dry skin and use tape in order to secure each electrode or pad. Make sure that the pads make full contact on your skin over areas that cause you pain. If you fail to feel a sensation, make sure that the wire connections have been secured and that there is power running to the unit.
To begin with set your unit of the low setting and then switch the unit on. You will immediately feel a tingling and gentle sensation. Now slowly increase your setting and you will start to feel an increase in the tingling sensations. Continue to increase the setting to a stage that you can handle, if the sensation become uncomfortable lower the setting slightly. If your muscles start to spasm or twitch decrease the intensity. If this sensation persists, consult with a doctor.
When you have completed a treatment, clean the pads or electrodes with warm water and soap. Avoid using solutions such as alcohol as this can weaken the rubbers. You should replace the pads every month, dependent on how frequently you use the machine. Treatment protocols are generally set at 20 to 60 minutes, up to a maximum of 3 times every day.
Q: Does The TENS Machine Work?
A: Due to the latest digital technology, the TENS units offer precise intensities and patterns in regards to electrical stimulation that significantly improves efficacy when it comes to electrotherapy in regards to eliminating or decreasing acute and chronic pain.
The significant amount of stories related to success derived from buyer reviews is an indicator to the relief obtained for a variety of people who have purchased the EMS, EPM or TENS units. However, to date there is at this stage no conclusive based clinical studies that have been released that prove efficacy of the TENS units. Thousands of individuals have provided their success stories that these machines do provide improvement and relief from chronic and acute pain without having to use dangerous and expensive drugs.
Q: How Do The TENS Unit Work?
A: The electrodes of a TENS unit are placed directly onto the skin over or close to the painful areas. Digital TENS units produce massage-like, gentle tingling sensations. The decrease in pain happens because of one or two of the following mechanisms:
1.The Gate Theory
This theory that is suggestive that the human central-nervous system features a built-in gate mechanism. When these gates are opened, the pain signals can pass into the brain and the result is the experience of pain. When this gate closes, pain message are blocked which means the experience of pain disappears. Impulses from a TENS machine stimulates non-pain carrying nerves which effectively closes the “gate.” The signals move faster than pain signals which are slower. This results in the brain becoming preoccupied with the faster impulses that are transmitted by a TENS unit, which means pain signals are not able to pass through.
2.The Stimulation Of Endorphin Production
Electrical impulses are what stimulate the body into producing its own pain-killers which are known as enkaphalins and endorphins. These mechanisms are called motor-level stimulation.
Q: What Side Effects Are Associated With The TENS Unit?
A: While the TENS unit may appear to be a outstanding solution when it comes to relieving acute and chronic pain, there are a few side effects associated with the machine. One of these examples is that it is vital to ensure the stimulation electrodes are positioned in the correct position. If placed incorrectly, the unit can result in further pain. Certain users have reported that prolonged use can result in tinnitus.
Q: Can You Use The TENS Unit Safely During Pregnancy?
A: If you plan to use a TENS machine before pregnancy, it is important to take caution as to when you use the machine. You should avoid using the unit when you are close to your delivery date, but the unit can be used safely in the earlier stages of your pregnancy. However, it is still advisable to ask your doctor before you decide to use one.
Q: Why Will I Need TENS Units Replacement Pads?
A: The pads that are included with the TENS units make use of adhesive that stick onto your skin, After you have used these pads over a period of time, the natural oils in your skin will cause the pads to lose adhesiveness. This means that you need to invest in replacement pads from time to time.
Q: What Are The Differences Between The EMS And TENS?
A: There is one primary difference between the units that are designed to offer EMS and TENS. The TENS units work on stimulating the nerves, that results in the relief of chronic pain that includes carpal tunnel, back pain and arthritis. The EMS machines work on contracting the muscles. These contractions strengthen and rehabilitate muscles.
Q: Is A Prescription Required
A: You will not require a prescription to purchase a TENS unit and they are readily available over-the-counter for rental or to buy. However, it is still advisable to use one under the supervision of your doctor, particularly when you are first learning how to use one. You will have to learn how to position the electrodes safely and which setting, intensity and duration is suitable for you.
Q: How Safe Is TENS Therapy?
A: TENS is considered to be a safe method to treat pain without having to take medication. There are extremely few side effects, the most common one being related to the self-adhesive pads, rather than to the device itself. People with sensitive skin may experience occasional burns and rashes because of the pads. The workarounds is simple and it consists from placing the pads in a different location each time. If you use the TENS therapy too often or if you adjust the pulse on a high setting, you may experience pain or muscle twitching.
Here are the contraindications for using TENS:
- Heart conditions of any type, including the use of a cardiac peacemaker
- Pregnancy, unless the patient has specific recommendation from her doctor
- Poor blood circulation
- Any malignant condition
- Epilepsy
- Allergies to the pads or to the contact gel. There are versions developed for sensitive skin, so you should consider using those instead of the regular ones.
- Before driving or operating heavy machinery
- In the bathtub or nearby water
While the electrodes can be places pretty much anywhere on the body, there are a few areas that are considered unsafe:
- The side and the front of the neck
- The eyes and the mouth
- The heart
- The head
- All areas that are numb or have reduced sensation
- Broken or irritated skin
- Varicose veins
You should always ask your physician for advice, in order to learn where to place the electrodes for maximum safety and less side-effects.
Conclusion
TENS units have been around for decades. They are used mainly for alleviating back pain, muscular stiffness and other similar problems. Today, these devices are available in many choices of functionality and operation. We’ve tried our best to put together this comprehensive guide that should offer you all the information you need before purchasing your own TENS unit. You should always make sure you read the instructions very carefully before starting to use your machine. These devices are fairly inexpensive and effective, so they may help you get rid of your pain and stiffness without the need for drugs.
Take Action
I hope these in-depth TENS units reviews and the other information on this website have helped you understand what to look for is such a device. You may now know much better what to expect from various models, so that you can make the best purchase to suit your needs. Pain management has never been easier, so get your own TENS unit today and free yourself from pain. You are only one or two days away from a pain-free life.
Editors’ Choice & Best Seller
- NEED PRESCRIPTION STRENGTH PAIN RELIEF? A TENS unit muscle stimulator...
- OVER 1M TENS 7000 DEVICES SOLD: A consumer over the counter favorite...
- A LEADER SINCE 2008: A 10+ year favorite TENS device among medical...
- GET IMMEDIATE PAIN RELIEF: TENS machine comes with multiple TENS...
- DUAL CHANNEL TENS UNIT: The TENS 7000 TENS unit provides TENS therapy...
Editors’ Choice & Professional’s Choice
- FDA CLEARED TENS UNIT & PMS MACHINE. 3.75” LCD screen with backlit...
- 8 PRE-PROGRAMMED MODES WITH TWO OUTPUTS & 20 INTENSITY LEVELS. 8...
- FDA 510K CLEARED LEADING TENS PADS& INDEPENDENT A/B CHANNELS. Includes...
- EASY TO CARRY. Enough battery life for up to 20 hours of continuous...
- KIT INCLUDES & WARRANTY. 1 x Dual Channel TENS Machine, 4 x 3"*1.75"...
Best Budget
- ✔️Medical device: FDA 510K Cleared OTC for safety and...
- 8 MODES WITH TWO OUTPUTS & 20 INTENSITY LEVELS. This portable muscle...
- ► MILLIONS OF CLIENTS WORLDWIDE: Sufferers in over 100 countries...
- ► 10 YEARS OF RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT: Still Formulated & Designed by...
- As this device has Wireless Access, it is Compatible with WI9 Wireless...
I’m Lucas. I used to be a back pain sufferer, but I’ve recovered. I created BestforBackPain.com to help others find relief without going to physical therapy or expensive medication.
Last update on 2021-01-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API