Back pain is a big problem for many people in our country right now, isn't it? Sometimes, no matter how much medicine you take or how much exercise you do, it feels like the pain just won't go away. If you're someone who suffers from a similar experience, you've probably heard of a treatment called TENS. Or maybe your doctor told you to do it when you went to physiotherapy . So today, let's talk about what TENS is, how effective it really is for back pain, and what you need to know if you're using it.
What is TENS? Let's understand it simply.
Simply put, TENS is an abbreviation for `Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation`. This is a treatment method used to relieve pain. It uses a small, battery-operated machine. This TENS machine has a series of sticky pads that are connected to the skin by wires. We also call these `electrodes`.
After applying the pads to the painful area, the machine is turned on using the remote control that comes with it. A very fine, low-voltage electrical current is then passed through the pads into the body. This is used not only for back pain, but also for pain caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia.
Imagine, when we feel pain in our body, a signal travels from there through the nerves to the brain. TENS therapy is believed to do two things:
1. Blocking pain signals: This subtle electrical current blocks the transmission of pain signals from the site of pain to the brain. Just like blocking a road prevents vehicles from passing through.
2. Endorphin production: In other words, this electrical stimulation stimulates the production of endorphins, which are natural pain-killing chemicals in our body. These are like our own painkillers.
But the amazing thing is, despite nearly 50 years of research , scientists still can't say with 100% certainty how it works, or whether it works equally well for everyone. For some people, pain is significantly reduced during treatment. But how long that relief lasts varies from person to person.
How do you use TENS for back pain?
If you are having TENS treatment for your back pain, electrode pads are placed on the skin around the area where you are most in pain. When you turn on the machine, you will feel a slight tingling sensation . This is not pain. If you are getting relief from this, you may start to feel it right away.
Some people may experience a return of pain shortly after stopping treatment, but others report that the pain has subsided within 24 hours.
But let's be honest. Research has not shown that TENS alone is effective for lower back pain. That means it's not a 'magic bullet' that works for everyone .
However, some medical guidelines say that for people with chronic lower back pain that has lasted more than 3 months and has not responded to conventional treatments (exercise, medication), TENS may be worth trying as an alternative treatment . Like acupuncture and massage, TENS is also an alternative treatment.
Things you should know before using TENS
TENS therapy is generally safe. However, it is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, if you are considering using TENS, it is essential to talk to your doctor first. Your doctor may not recommend this treatment for you, especially if you have any of the following conditions:
| Who and when should not have TENS therapy ? | |
|---|---|
| Status | Reasons to be especially careful |
| Pregnant mothers | This is not appropriate, especially in the early weeks of pregnancy. |
| People with pacemakers or other metal implants | Electrical current can interfere with the operation of those devices. |
| Epilepsy | Electrical stimulation can aggravate the condition. |
| Cancer patients | It is not appropriate to use this over areas where there are cancer cells. |
| Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) | There may be a risk of a blood clot breaking off. |
| Bleeding disorders | There may be a risk of internal bleeding. |
| Heart disease | This is especially not suitable for use in the chest area. |
How to properly use a TENS at home?
If your doctor has instructed you to use TENS at home, follow the instructions exactly. Here's how to apply the pads for lower back pain in general:
- Apply the pads on either side or above and below the painful area.
- Be sure to use at least two pads . One alone won't work.
- Do not let the two pads touch each other. Leave at least an inch of space between them.
- Do not place the pad directly on the spinal cord .
Before applying the pads, clean the area thoroughly and let it dry. Do not apply any creams or lotions. After applying the pads, turn on the machine on a very low setting. Gradually increase the intensity (electricity) until you feel a pleasant tingling sensation that you can tolerate.
Most importantly, it is said that TENS is more effective when you are active , such as walking or doing household chores, rather than sitting or lying down.
Remember these things for safety
- Only use TENS for pain that your doctor has prescribed. Do not use it for other pains without consulting your doctor.
- Check the skin where the pads are applied regularly. If you notice any redness, blistering, or burning that lasts more than 6 hours, stop using TENS and tell your doctor immediately .
- Do not apply pads to wounds, cuts, or areas with broken skin.
- Do not drive while using TENS.
- Do not use TENS while showering or in the bathtub.
- Do not use TENS together with a heating pad (hot water bag) or cold pack (ice pack).
- Do not use TENS while sleeping.
Are there any side effects of TENS therapy?
Although TENS is a very safe treatment, some people may experience minor side effects.
- Allergic reactions to the gum in the pads (redness, itching)
- Some people don't like the feeling of numbness. It can be an unpleasant sensation .
- Very rarely, burns can occur if the electrical current increases.
- Some people may experience headaches, dizziness, or nausea .
If this happens to you, stop treatment and talk to your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about TENS
1. How many times a day can TENS be used?
You can usually use it as many times as you need. Some people use it several times a day, for about an hour at a time. However, it is best to consult your doctor or physiotherapist.
2. What are the disadvantages of this?
Because there are fewer major side effects, the main disadvantage is that you could be wasting your time and money on something that doesn't have a successful outcome. That is, it may not work for you.
3. What are the best places to place TENS pads?
In addition to injured skin, do not apply the pads to the following areas:
- On both sides of the neck.
- Nowhere on the head or face.
- Numb, numb skin.
- Over varicose veins.
- Most importantly: Do not apply pads to the chest and upper back at the same time.
Take-Home Message
- TENS is an alternative treatment for chronic back pain, not a mainstream treatment that works for everyone.
- This may be very successful for some, while it may have no effect on others.
- Before starting TENS therapy, be sure to talk to your doctor to make sure it is right for you.
- This is not suitable for pregnant women or those with special circumstances, such as those with pacemakers.
- If using at home, follow safety instructions exactly. If in doubt, consult your doctor.
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