• Stopping the Pain

These impulses help in stopping the pain by being passed onto the nerves just under the skin and by sending positive messages to the brain. The positive messages thus created replace the pain messages that the body was sending to the brain earlier.

• Interrupting the Cycle of Pain

So, in simple terms, we can say that the TENS unit interrupts the cycle of pain by sending painless sensation to the brain and putting a stop to the painful ones being sent by the sufferer's body. These new sensations, created by the TENS unit, emanate from the pain affected area only, and can be felt as a 'tingling' sensation that are not unpleasant.

• Endorphins Release

On a chemical level, this process of sending electric signal to the nerves increases the amount of endorphins - the natural chemicals released by the body when it needs to relieve pain.

The 'Cons' of a TENS Unit

The side-effects of a TENS unit, if any, are that of a mild nature and should not cause any significant concern.

• Sore Skin

While some people might use a TENS unit only at certain limited times of a day, others might have a recommendation from their therapist to use the unit around the clock. However, those using the TENS unit for a longer and continuous period of time might experience some redness or soreness of the skin around the pads area.

To avoid this condition, the skin around and under the nodes must be constantly monitored to ensure it's not red or sore. Also, applying some gel or rubbing alcohol under the pad can help avoid this situation as the gel increases conductivity and protects the skin from any potential irritation.

• Muscle Pain and Twitching

Muscle pain and twitching have been reported by the continuous use of a TENS unit by some people. It happens because of a constant pulsing of the electrical stimulation. Therefore, it is advised to use the machine for a period of only 20 minutes at a stretch.

However, if the use is required for a longer period of time, then the user must make sure that the muscles don't start to become sore or any twitching to start because of constant stimulation. One of way doing it is by reducing the amount of voltage on the dial to a more comfortable level.

Notes of Caution

It can not be stressed enough that pregnant women should ALWAYS consult their doctor if they are considering ANY kind of TENS treatment as the vibrations of such a therapy are likely to reach the unborn child. Also, if you have a pacemaker inside your body or are suffering from a serious medical condition, do not use the TENS therapy without first talking to your physician.

Conclusion

Finally, it may be said that like so many other effective and proven pain management treatments, the TENS therapy might be very useful for many but may not be suitable for some of the people.