What are the best settings for a TENS unit?

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.

What level should I set my TENS unit?

For acute pain, the TENS unit should be set between 80 Hz and 120 Hz. For chronic pain, the settings can be lower — around 2 Hz to 10 Hz. This lower setting will stimulate hormones produced naturally by the nervous system to cope with pain.

How do I get the best results from a TENS unit?

Start on a low setting and gradually increase it until the sensation feels strong but comfortable. If the tingling sensation starts to feel painful or uncomfortable, reduce it slightly. Switch the TENS machine off after you've finished using it and remove the electrodes from your skin.

What is the best pulse width and rate for TENS?

The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) describes conventional TENS as “High-frequency (50–100 Hz), low-intensity (paraesthesia, not painful), small pulse width (50–200μs)” (4).

What setting should TENS be on for contractions?

Switch the machine on, starting with the controls at the lowest setting. Turn them up gradually as your contractions get stronger, or when the pain in your back gets worse. Use the boost button at the peak of each contraction. The boost function results in more intense, wave-like tingling or buzzing sensations.

How to Use a TENS Unit for Pain Relief - Ask Doctor Jo

What is a good contraction number?

When you're in true labor, your contractions last about 30 to 70 seconds and come about 5 to 10 minutes apart. They're so strong that you can't walk or talk during them. They get stronger and closer together over time.

What are the different modes on a TENS machine?

The T.E.N.S device has three different mode settings for a variety of stimulation sensations: Burst, Normal and Modulation. The Normal mode is the one most commonly used.

Should muscles twitch when using TENS?

What does TENS feel like? You may feel tingling, tapping, buzzing, or muscle twitching. You may also notice the TENS feels stronger or weaker at times. You may become used to the feeling and can turn up the intensity as you wear it longer.

Does a TENS unit break up knots?

Relieve knots – A TENS machine can help relax your overworked muscles, particularly those that developed into knots. Muscle knots or tightness can be painful and sometimes debilitating. TENS can loosen these knots by relieving pain, reducing the tightness and improving range of motion.

What are the disadvantages of TENS therapy?

TENS doesn't work for everybody. It can be uncomfortable but shouldn't be painful. You may experience skin irritation where the electrodes are stuck on. TENS can't be used in the bath or shower.

What does high rate TENS feel like?

The electrical impulses cause a tingling sensation, which should be pleasant. It should be at a level that feels comfortable, causes no muscle contractions, and produces pain relief. Pain relief varies by individual patient and the type of pain.

Can I over use my TENS unit?

TENS is safe, so you can use it as much as you like, although it's good practice to take regular 10-minute breaks every hour or so. Some people use TENS for more than five hours a day.

Should I lay down when using a TENS unit?

While using your home TENS unit, we suggest you stay seated or lay down. (Depending on the program you're using, your TENS massager will tell you what to do.) Now's a good time to watch a little TV, read a book, or simply sit quietly and enjoy your therapy.

What is EMS setting on TENS unit?

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) machines stimulate the nerves exclusively for the purpose of relieving pain, whereas Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) machines are designed to stimulate the muscles for the purposes of strengthening and rehabilitating them.

Where do you put TENS pads for anxiety?

The objective is to place the pads either side of any spot where your muscles are tense. The signal passes from one electrode to the other, therefore passing through the site of tension. If it is a general, all-over, calmer feeling you are seeking, then we recommend placing pads on the wrists or ankles.

Why can't I feel my TENS unit?

This can be caused by a number of things: The electrodes may not be adhered to the body adequately. Press firmly on the electrodes to ensure good contact with the skin. You may also like to try new electrodes.

Can you use a TENS machine on tight muscles?

If you experience chronic low back pain with tight, achy muscles, a TENS unit may be right for you! The transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator is a device that helps increase blood flow, promotes soft tissue healing, and relaxes tight muscles.

Does a TENS unit help with inflammation?

Reduced inflammation

Research has shown that a TENS unit can also reduce chronic hyperalgesia induced by muscle inflammation. The units can help reduce swelling and increase circulation, which may also enhance tissue healing and inflammation control.

What is strength duration mode on TENS unit?

Strength-Duration Mode (SD2): Consists of automatic modulation intensity and pulse width in 70% range. The intensity is always increasing, with the pulse width decreasing, and vice versa. Total cycle time = 10 seconds.

How long do you keep a TENS machine on for?

The machine should be used for at least 45 minutes but can be used for up to 12 hours before the electrodes need to be cleaned and re-sited. When you have finished using the machine for the day, carefully remove the pads from the skin and clean the skin with ordinary soap and water.

What does it mean if a TENS unit hurts?

However, the electrical impulses that a TENS unit produces may cause a buzzing, tingling, or prickling sensation, which some people may find uncomfortable. Some people may be allergic to the adhesive pads. Anyone who experiences skin redness and irritation can switch to using hypoallergenic ones instead.

Where do you put TENS pads for weight loss?

They adhere the device to a skin patch placed at a spot just below the rib cage and receive 30 minutes of electrical stimulation, twice a day, before meals.

What is the frequency and intensity of TENS?

Traditional TENS: high frequency (80–150 Hz), short pulses and intensity is often described as “Strong but comfortable”. Acupunture TENS: lower frequency (1–5 Hz) with longer pulses (200–250 μs), and the intensity be greater than traditional TENS resulting in strong sensation.