The TENS device, also known as transcutaneous electrical neurostimulation, is an effective, safe and non-invasive method of treating chronic and acute pain, without the need for medication.
TENS devices are one of the most used resources in physiotherapy for the treatment of pain related to arthritis, tendonitis, rheumatism or dislocations, for example.
What this technique consists of
TENS is a technique in which electrical impulses are applied to the skin using specific devices, which activate internal control mechanisms of the nervous system, exerting an analgesic action. This is a non-invasive, non-addictive method, without health risks and in most cases does not cause side effects.
Its physiological mechanism of analgesia depends on the modulation of the current applied to the affected region, that is, if low frequency and high intensity electrical impulses are applied, endorphins are released by the brain or marrow, which are substances with effects similar to morphine, thus leading pain relief. If electrical impulses are applied with high frequency and low intensity, analgesia occurs due to a blockage of nerve pain signals that are not sent to the brain.
The application of TENS lasts about 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the intensity of the stimulus and can be done in an office by a physiotherapist or at home.
When is indicated
The TENS technique can be used in some types of pain such as arthritis-related pain, low back pain, neuralgia, neck pain, tendonitis, cervicobrachial neuralgia, sciatica, neck pain, tendonitis, rheumatism, bone pain, back pain, sprains, dislocations, epicondylitis, postoperative pain, among others.
What are the benefits
The effects caused by TENS physiotherapy are analgesia, muscle stimulation, vasodilation, reduction of swelling and stimulation of healing of soft tissue injuries.
Who should not use
This method should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, people using a pacemaker, or people who have heart disease or skin disease at the application site.
