Tens

[fpainestam]

Hi, everybody.  I have seen a number of references to units of Tens.  They have got to be one of the few things I haven't tried, and I know diddly about them.  Can anybody cure my ignorance?  

Thanks!  fpainestam (otherwise known as "Frank")

[fpainestam]

Hey, Kathy/Tuck.  Many thanks--your comments are VERY helpful.  As it happens, I have an appointment with my pain doc this Friday...I'll see what he knows...

Cheers!  You guys are great!!  

Frank

[Tuckamore]

Hi fpainestam, aka Frank,

I always wondered what the "f" stood for. Thank you for satisfying my curiosity. Kathy has done a good job with the "cut and paste" so I won't repeat that information.

I can tell you that I have used a TENS Unit. I had no relief with it. Indeed the small electrical impulses were painful for me. Some information also states that the electrical impulses produced by the TENS gets the pain impulses confused in the brain. But the important factor is does it work for you.

I think it is worth a try. It is effective for some ppl. and often covered by insurance. You may want to discuss this with your PCP on your next visit. A PT will help you with the application and usage of the Unit.  

Good luck to you Frank. Let us know hoe effective the unit is for you is you do obtain one. And as always take care, Tuck

[Fluffysmom]

Hello,
"TENS" is the acronym for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation.  There is an easy to understand description of it on the About website; I'll cut and paste some of it in.
A "TENS unit" is a pocket size, portable, battery-operated device that sends electrical impulses to certain parts of the body to block pain signals.

The electrical currents produced are mild, but can prevent pain messages from being transmitted to the brain and may raise the level of endorphins (natural pain killers produced by the brain).
TENS units should only be used under the direction of a doctor or physical therapist. Electrodes are attached to the surface of the skin over or near the area where you are experiencing pain. It is important that you learn how to:


correctly put on the electrodes (proper placement is important)
operate the unit
change the batteries
vary the controls and settings (both the frequency and voltage)
set the proper duration and intensity of the stimulation (which depends on the location and type of pain)

TENS units are prescribed for both acute pain and chronic pain conditions such as:

arthritis
joint pain
fibromyalgia

For some chronic pain patients, a TENS unit provides pain relief that can last for several hours. For others, a TENS unit may help reduce the amount of pain medications needed. Some patients hook the unit onto a belt turning it on and off as needed.

The cost of a TENS unit can range from about $100 to several hundred dollars. TENS units can be purchased or rented. A prescription usually is necessary for insurance reimbursement of a TENS unit.

Mine was very inexpensive, with help from insurance.  It is very easy to use, too.  Thanks for reminding me; mine is sitting around gathering dust somewhere!

Take care,

Kathy