Apr
I wanted to find out more about the use of TENS machine and if it can be used long term , and if using long term can this cause any damage.
I have just purchased one from a well known pharmacy as it was on special offer and a good price ( my physio said they ll do the same thing so don't get paying a fortune)
Any hints or tips ?
the annoying thing with the one i bought is that it has a 15 min timer …then it switches itself off …….how inconvenient s that.
Answer:
there’s nothing wrong with using it for long term. it does have a timer which can be a bit inconvenient but most people get relief from short sessions of about 15minutes. and your physio was right they all work the same way so need to purchase costly ones.
they work by changing the way the pain signal reaches the brain (like when you fall down and rub the bit that hurts and it takes the pain away) and also helps the body to produce its own natural pain killers (endorphins)
always set the machine on a lower setting first before gradually building it up.
to help the gel pads last longer wipe them with a damp cloth. they should last about 200 uses before they need replacing.
look at the gel placing instructions in the book and don't place pads directly over the spine.
TENS is very effective for some people. lady i work with uses it and has found it very beneficial.
Answer:
did u get it from lloyds ?? i have both the ones they sell, the flat one which sounds like the one you have and there’s one with 4 pads .. they’re all on 5 min timers, you can use then for 30 mins at a time, just re start it when it stops, but then you need to leave it an hour before you use it again.
it won’t do you any harm if you use it properly, don’t put it on your neck or face/head …….. no longterm damage either has ever been reported. i have had one since i was 14 yrs old so 20 years, when my painkillers dont work i use it and the relief washes over me !!
Answer:
i got one from my pt for my ankle 3 years ago and i still use it today.
so far nothing has happened and it really helps especially before and after doubles for soccer and running