4 replies to this topic

[bunkalar]

I have Been having an increasing amount of burning and tingling in my legs, mostly below my knee. I'm experimenting with different meds but also know that a tens unit could help. I happen to have one and was wondering how to use it with my nerve pain. Where do I place the Pads, how long and when? Some days the burning is worse than others, some days there is no nerve pain at all. Should I use it everyday? If anyone wants to comment on how effective a tens unit has been with their nerve pain that would be appreciated also. Thanks.

[percepied]

Here's "my" understanding of how a TENS unit works. (Read I'm a dummy so don't take this as rote.) The electrical signal stimulates the muscles and attenuates the faulty nerve signals causing NP. High frequency signals can be applied all day and night, whereas low frequencies (resulting in higher voltages) can damage (burn) the tissue near the electrode so should only be used for hour long periods. Electrodes should be localized to a muscle near the pain and placed so that the pairs of electrodes are diagonal causing the muscle fibers to contract.

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My experience with TENS has not been terribly positive although I could tell a difference. Beware touching the pads with the power on. I've been told medical residents use these often for practical jokes. (I'm sure you've experienced this ... yow!)

[Joed]

I have a stimulator that also has a TENS function. I've found it works best for my muscle pain rather than the NP, but sometimes it's just hard to discern.

I'd suggest asking for guidance for its use by either a physical therapist or pain mgt. specialist....they can set the appropriate cycles on the TENS to fit your particular needs.

I hope it works well for you....let us know how it goes.

[wheeliebear75]

Hello. I have a TENS unit myself. I do notice a difference. I think the shortest explanation I ever hear was "uses electricity to overwride the pain message". Nerves use electric impulses to help communicate.....the TENS sends out a stronger signal that makes it harder for your brain to "hear" the pain message from all the TENS "static".

FYI do not put it on if you are sweaty and take them off if you are becoming sweaty. (the salt in sweat is a conductor....found out 1st hand.... ).

if the leads come unattached you'll get a small shock. And yes if somebody touches a lead while it is on both the person holding the pad and the person wearing the others wil get a zesty little zap.

(had to go to court for something and the baliff inspecting me for controban did NOT ask, he just pulled off a pad "to see if there was anything hidden by it". He got shocked....and mad, and I told him if I had only known he wanted to check them out I would have turned it off....you know so I don't get shocked. Hey how was I supposed to know he wanted to check something besides using the metal detecting wand

[Avocado Baby]

How about Ultrasound? Will this do anything for NP?

Edited by Pink Ali, 18 July 2007 - 02:26 PM.