TENS Stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation uses electric current produced by a medical device to stimulate your nerves for therapeutic or massage purposes. By definition, TENS covers the complete range of nerve excitation by electricity that is applied through your skin. Sometimes though the term is may be used to just describe electrical pulses produced by portable stimulators that treat pain. Usually a TENS unit is connected to the skin using two or more electrodes (because you need to complete a circuit between two points). A typical battery-operated TENS unit is able to modulate pulse width, frequency and intensity. Generally TENS is applied at high frequency (>50 Hz) with an intensity below motor contraction (sensory intensity) or low frequency (<10 Hz) with an intensity that produces motor contraction. The use of TENS has proved effective in clinical studies.
“Positive” versus “Negative” Electrode Placement. Every therapist should realize that with alternating current (AC) each electrode reverses current with each cycle. In other words, the red and black change from positive to negative. On the other hand, galvanic or direct current (DC) has a true positive and a negative. It is extremely important where you place the red (anode) and black (cathode) electrodes. When using direct current one electrode will be an “active” treatment electrode and the second “non-active” treatment electrode is just used to complete the cycle.
With many choices for a first-time buyer, you might become frustrated wondering what the best unit is for your condition. A portable tens unit is a great non-invasive, drug-free treatment for all types of pain. A stationary machine may be designed for specific treatments (feet) or be significantly more powerful than portable Tens units.
We are here to help you overcome the unfamiliar technical terminology with our explanations for each unique unit.
AccuRelief™ Wireless Remote Control TENS
The AccuRelief Wireless Remote Control TENS Pain Relief System is a is a wireless compact electrical TENS unit that delivers powerful targeted pain relief for those hard-to-reach areas using a remote control.
AccuRelief™ Dual Channel TENS
The AccuRelief Dual Channel TENS Pain Relief System is a highly versatile, personal TENS unit for home, work or travel that delivers prescription-strength relief.
The AccuRelief Ultimate Foot Circulator is an advanced electrical stimulator for home, work or travel. This powerful device delivers prescription-strength relief by relaxing stiff muscles, increasing blood circulation of health muscles, reduces swollen feet and ankles to help you get back to a normal activity level.
Contraindications. Do not assume that just because a physician has ordered electrical stimulation or TENS that they have been thoroughly checked for contraindications such as an implanted medical device (cardiac pacemaker, defibrillator, insulin or balcofen pumps), active cancer or sepsis. Have backup plans should contraindications arise. For example, instead of using electrical stimulation, contrast baths can be used for edema reduction, or use subthermal ultrasound for pain relief on an intercostal muscle tear rather than run electrical current transthoracically.