A standard TENS unit typically delivers a low-frequency (<50 Hz)
alternating current
to a focused treatment area. Due to the nature of low-frequency, however, these signals have a low capacity to overcome skin resistance – resulting in these units only providing pain relief via the Gate Control Theory while being worn.
What is the voltage of TENS?
Basic TENS devices have simple circuits that typically generate
no more than 40-60 volts
. Prescription devices may provide 100 volts. Quell has an advanced stimulation circuit based on a proprietary neurostimulation microchip that reliably generates up to 120 volts, which is 2-3 times higher than most OTC TENS devices.
Is TENS a pulsed current?
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a
non-invasive peripheral stimulation
technique used to relieve pain. During TENS pulsed electrical currents are delivered across the intact surface of the skin to activate underlying nerves.
What frequency is a TENS Unit?
Conventional TENS has a high stimulation frequency (
40-150 Hz
) and low intensity, just above threshold, with the current set between 10-30 mA. The pulse duration is short (up to 50 microseconds). The onset of analgesia with this setup is virtually immediate.
What type of current does TENS use?
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a therapy that uses
low-voltage electrical current
for pain relief. You do TENS with a small, battery-powered machine about the size of a pocket radio. Usually, you connect two electrodes (wires that conduct electrical current) from the machine to your skin.
Can a TENS unit be harmful?
TENS is generally regarded as safe
. But it has risks just like any other medical procedure. For example, if the electrical current is too high or the electrodes are placed on the wrong part of the body, it can burn or irritate the skin. The “danger zones” include the brain, heart, eyes, genitals, and throat.
Can I overuse a TENS unit?
Others continue to experience an adequate level of pain relief for up to 24 hours. A 2012 review suggests that the duration of pain relief
increases
after repeated TENS treatments. However, this repetition can also increase the likelihood of a person building up a tolerance to the treatment.
How many amps is a TENS Unit?
TENS units use only a very small number of amps. In a typical unit, the settings don’t go higher than
100 mA
. Your house current reaches your breaker box with a current of up to 220 A, or 220,000 mA, and each circuit in your house may have a circuit breaker that will usually trip at about 15-20A.
Do TENS machines loosen muscles?
The
electrical impulses can reduce the pain signals
going to the spinal cord and brain, which may help relieve pain and relax muscles. They may also stimulate the production of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers.
What is the most powerful TENS unit you can buy?
| Channels Dual | Modes 5 | Pads 4 | Output Maximum 150mA | Power Supply 2-AA Industrial Strength Batteries |
|---|
How long should a TENS unit be used?
When is it best to use TENS? Research has shown that TENS is most helpful for chronic pain when used for
at least 30 minutes while you are active
. It is less effective when you are sitting still, lying down, or resting.
Can TENS irritate nerves?
Can a TENS unit cause nerve damage?
TENS unit is not known to cause any nerve damage
. A backfire in the TENS unit might provoke an overreaction in the nerve causing some pain or discomfort, but the nerve itself is unlikely to be damaged.
What are the side effects of electrical stimulation?
Side effects include
redness and irritation to the skin
which typically clears with topical moisturizer in 24 to 48 hours. The electrical current may start off as a slight tingling sensation and build to a pulling sensation.
What TENS mode is best for back pain?
Pain relief can occur at various frequencies.
Acute pain
is usually most effective between 80 and 120 Hz. Chronic pain can also benefit from lower settings 2 to 10Hz that stimulates an endorphin release. A setting between 35 and 50Hz is commonly used to stimulate muscles for strengthening or even relaxation.
Can I put TENS unit on my neck?
You should place the
TENS pads on the back of your neck
, at least an inch apart. If your unit has two channels, you can place four pads. If that is the case, put two of the pads on the back of the neck and the other two on top of your shoulder blades.
Do you need a prescription for TENS unit?
You can buy a TENS unit without a prescription
. But, you may need documentation from your doctor to get your insurance to cover it. Out-of-pocket cost for a TENS unit can range from less than $100 for a simple unit to more than $500 for a unit with extra features.
