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Introduction to TENS
What is Pain?
Pain is the body’s warning system. Pain is important because it signals an unusual
condition in the body and alerts us before additional damage or injury can occur.
However, long-lasting, persistent pain, often called chronic pain, once diagnosed serves
no apparent purpose. TENS is developed to help relieve some types of chronic and
acute pain.
How Does TENS Work?
TENS is a method of treating pain that is non-invasive and non-narcotic. The TENS device
sends comfortable pulses through the skin that stimulate the nerve (or nerves) in the
treatment area. In many cases this stimulation will greatly reduce or eliminate the pain
sensation you feel by masking the original pain message sent to the brain.
It is also believed that TENS stimulation helps release endorphins into the bloodstream
thereby further reducing pain.
TENS devices are clinically proven to be useful in pain management for many patients.
By reading this manual and carefully following the treatment instructions given to you
by your physician/clinician, you will attain the maximum benefit from your TENS device.
Indications and Contraindications
Read the operation manual before using TENS
Indications
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) may be used, with a physician’s
prescription, for the symptomatic relief and management of chronic (long term) pain and
for the treatment of post-operative or post-traumatic pain.
Contraindications
• Patients with implanted electronic devices (for example, a pacemaker) or metallic
implants should not undertake TENS treatment without first consulting a physician.
• Any electrode placement that applies current to the carotid sinus (neck) region.
