Questions and Answers on TENS Units

Question:

Will a TENS machine help heal my disease, such as bursitis, fracture, or muscle strain?

Answer:

No. A TENS machine is a safe, effective, low tech machine for pain relief only. There is no evidence to back up its efficacy in disease modification, only for symptom management, meaning pain reduction. It should not be confused with a bone growth stimulator, which is a device working on either a pulsed electromagnetic field or maybe ultrasound. These devices have some evidence to back up their efficacy with disease modification, such as accelerated fracture healing.

Question:

Is a TENS machine expensive?

Answer:

No, it's not. TENS do not cost thousands of dollars like a bone growth stimulator device or an ultrasound machine. They usually cost less than $150 and come with the wires and first set of electrodes. Electrodes are the pads that go on the skin and deliver the electrical impulse. Replacement pads can be purchased for under $10.

Question:

How long can I use my TENS at any one time?

Answer:

It's not recommended to use your TENS unit for more than 2 hours at a time. Then take it off for 2 hours. There's really no hard and fast rule, but there is a small risk of skin irritation so it's best to be safe.

Question:

Are there dangers associated with TENS?

Answer: There are minor dangers with a TENS machine. They should not be used on the face or head area or if one has a pacemaker. There is a minor risk of skin irritation from the TENS, just monitor the area where the electrodes are placed.

Question:

For what problems is it OK to use a TENS machine?

Answer:

There are hundreds of problems for which TENS work wonderfully. These include a low back or neck strain/sprain, shoulder tendonitis, ankle sprains, knee arthritis, post-operatively for incisional pain, RSD type pains in the extremities, and a ton more.

Question:

Do I need a prescription for a TENS unit?

Answer:

Yes, any MD, DO, or DC can prescribe a TENS unit.

Question:

Will a TENS machine affect my ability to think?

Answer:

No, in fact the TENS unit involves a small dose of electrical current and no medication at all. It may reduce the amount of pain medications being used and minimize the "narcotic fog" that is often seen. The electrical impulses will not affect the ability to think clearly.

Question:

How does a TENS device actually relieve pain?

Answer:

TENS machines work on the Gate Control theory of pain, which is widely believed. The electrical impulses activate inhibitory cells which can shut down the "Gate" which allows pain signals to travel towards the brain. Less pain signals get through to the brain as the electrical impulses are supplied, and the patient feels less pain.

Question:

Who should not use a TENS machine?

People with Pacemakers should not use TENS machines.

Question:

Does insurance cover my TENS unit?

Answer:

Yes it does. Medicare and Medicaid cover TENS in most states along with most private insurances. It all depends on your benefits.