Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Defined

(TENS)

What Is
Transcutaneous
Electrical Nerve
Stimulation?

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) delivers low-voltage electrical currents to stimulate nerves and manage pain. Electrodes are applied to the skin near the area of pain or discomfort, and deliver pulses of electrical currents as controllable speeds and intensities.

What Does TENS Treat?

TENS is widely used for pain management and relief, including acute or chronic pain from conditions like musculoskeletal pain, arthritis, nerve injury, and post-surgical pain.

TENS Mechanism of Action

TENS involves the application of electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin to stimulate sensory nerve fibers. The device generates adjustable electrical pulses to reduce pain and discomfort through several methods:

  • Gate Control Theory: Electrical stimulation interferes with pain signals transmitted to the brain by “closing the gate” in the spinal cord.

  • Endorphin Release: Stimulates the production of natural pain-relieving chemicals like endorphins.

  • Improved Blood Flow: Increases circulation, which may contribute to healing and pain relief.

Is TENS FDA Approved?

TENS is widely used and FDA-cleared for:

  • Chronic Pain: Such as back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis.

  • Acute Pain: Post-surgical or injury-related pain.

  • Nerve Pain: Conditions like sciatica and peripheral neuropathy.

  • Muscle Pain and Spasms: Especially after physical exertion or trauma.

TENS devices are often available over the counter or by prescription for specific conditions.

Can TENS Treat Alzheimer’s?

TENS has not been extensively studied or widely used for Alzheimer’s disease. There is no evidence that TENS directly affects Alzheimer’s pathology (e.g., amyloid plaques or tau tangles) or cognitive function.

How does TENS compare to TEMT-RF?

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Transcranial Electromagnetic Treatment with Radio Frequencies (TEMT-RF) are fundamentally different technologies with distinct purposes.

  • TEMT-RF uses ultra-high frequency radio waves to modulate brain function and cellular activity delivered through a non-invasive wearable headset.

  • Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) uses low-voltage electrical currents to stimulate nerves and manage pain delivered through surface electrodes.

Learn more about
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

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