TENS machine

[CG'sknees]

I just wanted to share my experience today with using my TENS machine. My in-home PT was able to arrange the purchase of one for me. It's a small unit, with just a 9 volt battery.

I had my first out-patient PT session this morning, an evaluation really. The lovely and encouraging PT showed me how to use my little machine. I came home and used it for 60 minutes, and have to say it really does help with the pain. I knew the e-stim was good, as I had this done after my arthro surgery last year. But that was with a big fancy machine at another PT facility. I wasn't sure about the little home unit, but I am here to testify that it really does help.

Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday.

 

[Josephine]

I've been recommending that for ages! Actually the TENS is a slightly different gizmo to the machine used by PTs. I've worked my way through three units over the years and wouldn't be without it. I've used it on shoulders, upper back, lower back and knee. I even used it on my knee after I had an arthroscopy! I went back to work with it strapped on my leg (against unintentional dislodging of the electrodes) and used it on and off through my whole shift. It enabled me to get back to work about 3 weeks before I should have done!

Yep, TENS machines are the biz in my book!

 

[marennorge]

I thought this kind of electrical stimulation that was offered by my PT facility more irritating than helpful. After the first time I tried it, I declined it at future visits. Guess it just depends on the individual.

 

[Linda2]

It sure must. I love e-stim!

 

[Josephine]

I thought this kind of electrical stimulation that was offered by my PT facility more irritating than helpful. After the first time I tried it, I declined it at future visits. Guess it just depends on the individual.

E-stim and TENS are two completely different animals.

 

[Simon]

I have used TENS in the past for pain control and it worked great. Last winter when I was about ready to hit the roof, I was about ready to call the doctor for a prescription for a new one.

Simon

 

[Troweltalk]

What is a "TENS" machine and where could I find out more about them?

"TENS" stands for what?

 

[NLVCa]

TENS stands for
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transcutaneous_Electrical_Nerve_Stimulator. Lots of info the net about them.

I think you need a prescription from your PT in order to buy one.

Cheers,
Vern

 

[Josephine]

TENS machines are great! I've used one for years for a variety of problems and I'm now on my 3rd one! Well 4th actually, but I gave #3 away to a friend! Although in the US you do officially need a script, I know of some who have obtained one off Ebay!

Fortunately, here in the UK we don't need a script.

 

[CG'sknees]

I bought mine via my in-home PT who knew a lady at medical supply place. Since it was a cash purchase they sold it without prescription, although my PCP was quite willing to give me one. But it was not covered by insurance....

 

[kipper]

Would a TENS machine be safe for me -as I have occasional atrial fibrillation?

kipper

 

[Josephine]

NO!! It's one of the contraindications for use of a TENS.

 

[kipper]

Ah! Thank you! i did have a feeling it wouldnt be OK for me - never mind!