How Tens Works; Side Effects; The Programmes - TensCare iTouch easy Instructions For Use Manual

3. HOW "TENS" WORKS
TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. TENS
stimulates your body's own natural defences against pain, namely
the release of endorphins. TENS is totally safe, has been used
successfully by thousands of pain sufferers.
THE ADVANTAGES OF TENS
•
Totally Safe Easy to Use
TENS sends a gentle stimulation through the skin which works
in TWO ways:-
•
Pain Gate
Stimulating the sensory nerves, which carry touch and temperature
signals. These nerves go to the same connections in the spine as the
nerves carrying pain. A strong sensory signal will block the pain signal
travelling up the spine to the brain, this is known as closing the "Pain
Gate" and takes effect quite quickly after the unit is switched on.
You can use TENS several times a day, for as long as you like.
•
Endorphin Release
At low frequency settings, and slightly stronger output, TENS drives the
motor nerves to produce a small repetitive muscle contraction. This is
seen by the brain as exercise, and this promotes release of Endorphins
- your body's own natural pain killer. The relief builds up and normally
takes about 40 minutes to reach a maximum level which can last for
hours after the machine is switched off. By using TENS you can expect
to achieve a significant reduction in pain if not complete pain relief.
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•
Drug Free

4. SIDE EFFECTS

There are no known side effects to TENS use and long-term TENS
use is not harmful.

5. THE PROGRAMMES

There is no one programme appropriate for a particular condition,
and the most appropriate varies from one person to another, even if
they have the same type of pain. Therefore, the selection of both the
programmes and the positioning of the pads should be performed on
an individual basis. You may need to try a few positions/programmes
before finding the one that suits you the best.
The following grid summarises the programmes available and how
they vary. All the programmes are effective for chronic pain, which
continues or recurs over a prolonged period and the programmes B,
C, D and H are effective for acute pain, such as pain caused by sports
injury or an accident. Some programmes are particularly effective for
certain pains. These have been indicated under the "Specific uses"
section. The "itouch easy" has 8 pre-set pain relief programmes.
If you are using TENS for the first time, it is recommended that
you start with programme A. TENS can be used for as long as is
necessary. Continuous treatment is fine, but electrode pads should be
repositioned regularly (at least every 12 hours) to allow the skin to be
exposed to the air. The Endorphin Release modes work better when the
strength is high enough to cause small muscle contractions.
Best results are achieved at between 20 and 40 minutes.
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