A to Z of Therapies
Electrotherapy(TENS)
April 3rd, 2008
In order to explain why electrical nerve stimulation is possible, it is necessary to first be aware that the body is an electrically charged being, with all functions being activated by electricity generated within the body. The electricity generation occurs due to the interaction of the chemicals provided by the food and liquids we ingest, inhale and absorb across our skin.
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a method of electrical stimulation that primarily aims to provide a degree of pain relief (symptomatic) by directly blocking transmission of pain signals along the nerves.
TENS is able to "switch-off" or considerably reduce the feeling of pain. It does this by working in two ways.
The first is by sending masses of sensory messages to the brain, which becomes flooded with sensory feelings that are perceived to be of more importance than the feeling of pain. This is commonly known as a 'Gating Effect' (a metaphorical pain control gate is closed, "locking out" the pain).
The second way is caused by a hormonal release of Encephalins and Endorphins due to a raised level of brain activity. Encephalins are quickly released, but only remain active for a short period. Endorphins are slowly released and may take up to 30 minutes to take effect, but remain active for a long 8 to 36 hour period. An endorphin release has a strong influence on controlling chronic pain, as it can manage intractable pain that does not respond to non-opiate medication.
Modern TENS devices can effectively treat pain using a mixture of a high pulse rate stimulation used for a gating effect and an Encephalins release, with a low pulse rate used for an Endorphin release. And today most TENS machines include self adhesive, pre gelled electrodes (pads) for ease of use.
Electrotherapy Association
http://www.electrotherapy.com
A to Z of Therapies
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