![]() TENS utilizes electrical pulses that are sent to interfere with nearby nerve fibers that send signals to the brain. These pulses target nerves specifically while not affecting nearby muscles. In this treatment, electrical impulses sent by a TENS unit reduce pain by mimicking signals sent by the nervous system. TENS is used exclusively for pain therapy, whether chronic (long-term) or acute (short-term). Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) addresses pain relief, while electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) is used for muscle healing. Generally speaking, e-stim has two primary applications – pain reduction and muscle stimulation. Some patients experience instant relief, while others may need more regular treatment. The therapist will remove the electrodes once the treatment is over.Therapy for muscle stimulation or pain relief should last between 10 to 30 minutes.For best results, the current should feel intense but not uncomfortable. The intensity will be adjusted to the patient’s liking.The patient will feel a painless tingling sensation. The therapist will engage the machine in a low setting at first.These are easy to remove after the treatment. Electrodes connected to a stimulation unit will then be placed onto the patient’s skin.A therapist will expose and clean the treatment area.Here are the typical steps during a treatment session: While an electric stimulator is a passive treatment modality, it still helps to know what to expect. ![]() ![]() Regular therapy may be required as relief only lasts for the duration of the treatment.ĭespite this, e-stim remains an attractive mode of therapy as it is a convenient procedure that effectively repairs and relieves pain. One person may feel better after just one treatment, while another may need an extended rehabilitation program. The alleviation of pain that electric stimulators provide also varies per patient and disease state. Combining e-stim with active therapeutic techniques such as myotherapy and chiropractic treatment as part of a more extensive rehabilitation program produces the best results. While electrical stimulation is as effective as an interventional pain treatment technique, it isn’t a solitary treatment of pain and muscle damage in patients.Īn electric stimulator is designed to be a complementary modality of treatment a patient receives during physical therapy. Image Source: Shutterstock Do Electric Stimulators Actually Work? □ E-stim’s popularity is growing due to its ability to provide pain relief without prescription painkillers’ negative side effects. In contrast, most regular physical therapy programs involve strenuous participation from the patient. It even helps alleviate pain in mothers seeking to avoid anesthetics during childbirth.Į-stim is considered a “passive” mode of treatment. This includes repairing damaged muscle tissue, helping stroke survivors re-learn basic motor functions, and treating arthritis and tendonitis. This allows patients to alleviate pain while providing the peace of mind that they are safe and effective.Īn electric stimulator also has applications beyond treating pain. People turn to electrotherapy because it is an alternative pain relief technique that is natural and non-addictive. These effects of prescribed painkillers are partly responsible for the growing popularity of electric stimulators. Treating chronic pain may invoke the use of painkillers or opioids however, they can be associated with adverse side effects such as nausea, tolerance, physical dependence, and in some cases, addiction. Image Source: Shutterstock What Is an Electric Stimulator used for? E-stim makes use of electrode pads to deliver painless electrical currents. These pulses can reduce pain by stimulating nerves as well as facilitating muscle repair and growth by inducing contractions. ![]() Read our guide to discover how you, too, can have pain-free days and a better quality of life! What is Electrical Stimulation?Įlectrical Stimulation (e-stim), or electrotherapy, is a minimally invasive pain treatment technique that delivers mild electrical pulses to reduce discomfort and heal muscles.Į-stim works by using an electrical stimulation machine connected by wires to electrode pads, which directly deliver painless pulses to a patient’s muscles. Often misunderstood, electrotherapy uses stimulation machines to relieve pain and repair tissue damage. Tired of being trapped in an endless cycle of painkillers and their unpleasant side effects? Fortunately, an electrical stimulator provides a non-painful, non-addictive alternative to prescription opioids. ![]()
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