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TENS Therapy (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a non-invasive electrotherapy modality used primarily for pain relief. It works by delivering low-voltage electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin. These impulses stimulate sensory nerves and help reduce the perception of pain.

At ProHealth Bone & Joint Speciality Clinic, TENS therapy is commonly used as part of a comprehensive physiotherapy program for acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain.

How Does TENS Work?

TENS reduces pain through two major mechanisms:

1. Gate Control Theory of Pain

The electrical impulses stimulate large sensory nerve fibers (A-beta fibers), which "close the gate" in the spinal cord and block pain signals from reaching the brain.

2. Endorphin Release

Low-frequency TENS stimulates the body to release natural pain-relieving chemicals called endorphins.

Types of TENS

1. Conventional TENS (High-Frequency TENS)

  • Frequency: 50–150 Hz
  • Intensity: Low, comfortable tingling sensation
  • Pulse Width: 50–200 microseconds
  • Duration: 20–30 minutes
  • Best For: Acute and chronic pain relief

2. Acupuncture-Like TENS (Low-Frequency TENS)

  • Frequency: 1–4 Hz
  • Intensity: High enough to produce visible muscle twitching
  • Duration: 15–20 minutes
  • Best For: Chronic pain and deep muscular pain

3. Brief Intense TENS

  • Frequency: 100–200 Hz
  • Intensity: High but tolerable
  • Duration: Up to 5 minutes
  • Best For: Short-term pain relief before mobilization or procedures

Conditions Treated with TENS Therapy

TENS therapy is useful for a wide range of painful conditions, including:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Sciatica
  • Cervical Spondylosis
  • Lumbar Spondylosis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Diabetic Neuropathy
  • Neck and back pain
  • Tendinitis
  • Muscle strains and ligament injuries
  • Postoperative pain
  • Sports injuries
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Labor pain
  • Phantom limb pain

Therapeutic Benefits of TENS

  • Drug-free pain relief
  • Reduces muscle spasm
  • Improves circulation
  • Promotes relaxation
  • Helps restore mobility
  • Can reduce the need for pain medications
  • Safe and non-invasive

TENS Treatment Parameters

Parameter

  • Pulse Shape
  • Pulse Width
  • Frequency Intensity
  • Treatment Time

Typical Range

  • Rectangular biphasic
  • 50-500 microseconds
  • 1-150 Hz 0-60 mA
  • 20-30 minutes

Electrode Placement

Electrodes may be placed over:

  • The area of maximum pain
  • Trigger points
  • Acupuncture points
  • Peripheral nerves
  • Relevant spinal segments (dermatomes)

Proper electrode placement is crucial for optimal pain relief.

Side Effects and Limitations

TENS is generally very safe, but some people may experience:

  • Mild tingling or buzzing sensation
  • Temporary skin redness
  • Adhesive allergy
  • Minor discomfort if intensity is too high

Contraindications of TENS

TENS should be avoided or used only under medical supervision in:

  • Pregnant women (over abdomen or pelvis)
  • Patients with Epilepsy
  • People with Cardiac Pacemaker or implanted electrical devices
  • Significant heart rhythm disorders
  • Over the front of the neck (carotid sinus)
  • Over the eyes
  • Over broken or infected skin

How Is TENS Applied?

Condition Type

  • Skin is cleaned and prepared.
  • Adhesive electrodes are placed on the treatment area.
  • Frequency, pulse width, and intensity are adjusted.
  • A comfortable tingling sensation is maintained during treatment.
  • Therapy usually lasts 20–30 minutes.

TENS Therapy at ProHealth Clinic, Kharghar

At ProHealth Bone & Joint Speciality Clinic, TENS therapy is provided by experienced physiotherapists under the guidance of Dr Suman Gupta and supported by Dr Rahul Gupta. It is commonly integrated with exercise therapy, manual therapy, and advanced modalities such as TECAR therapy for faster recovery.

Book an Appointment

If you are suffering from persistent pain and would like a safe, effective, non-drug treatment option, TENS therapy may help.

📞 Call: 7045271001

📍 Location: Kharghar, Navi Mumbai

📱 WhatsApp: 7045271000

🌐 www.prohealthclinic.co.in