The use of electronic stimulation for muscle pain is a therapeutic method that has many benefits for those experiencing discomfort; the pain relieving stimulation is called T.EN.S which stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. Mild electrical energy delivered from electrodes stimulates the muscles, causing minor contractions for a pulsing, tingling sensation. Muscle spasms can also be alleviated by the use of these devices.
By massaging the sore area, the electronic stimulation eases pain in the aching muscles. There are varieties that offer deep massages, for the maximum pain relief benefits. This massage triggers the production of endorphins which in turn work at blocking pain stimuli by halting nerves messages being sent to the hypothalamus.
As well, by using electronic stimulation, the blood flow to the muscles is improved. The motion from the massage increases blood flow and circulation, therefore more nutrients go to the area and healing is sped up.
T.E.N.S triggers the body’s own natural responses and should not be used on the front of the neck, on the head, or near the heart. The pulses could adversely affect these areas such as causing the throat to close or causing an imbalance to the heart rate. Pregnant women should not use these devices on their stomachs because the effects of the electronic stimulation on a fetus have not been tested, but during labor the machines can be applied to the lower back for ease of pain. Side effects are relatively non-existent unless used on the wrong areas of the body that have been outlined, so the devices can be used daily. The main aches and pains that electronic stimulation is good for include back pain, shoulder pains, and arthritis.
Electronic stimulation works to reduce muscle pain, so learn more from your physician or contact our Chicago physical therapy clinic, or simply visit our website: www.AdvancedPhysicalMedicine.org.
Dr. Rosenthal studied medicine at the University of Wisconsin. With more than ten years of experience in chiropractic medicine, Dr. Rosenthal practices medicine through his Chicago chiropractic clinic.