The 9 Possible TENS Machine Side Effects

Posted by Just Fitter on May 26, 2020

Experts suggest that the application of electrical impulses helps relax muscles and relieve pain by obstructing the pain signals from being transmitted to the brain and spinal cord. However, before undergoing any form of treatment, it is extremely important to gain a clear understanding about its risks or side effects.

What Does TENS Stand for?

TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation.

What is a TENS Unit?

TENS is a well-known pain management methodology that involves the use of a mild electrical current. This technique is administered via Tens unit to relieve users from different types of pain to help get rid of muscle knots. These small devices are battery operated and have leads connected to sticky pads that are actually electrodes. Many Tens machines also have an EMS mode that uses EMS technology that stimulates healthy muscles in order to improve muscle performance.

How Does a TENS Unit Work?

In order to use a TENS machine, the users are required to attach the electrodes directly to their skin. As soon as the machine is turned on, it delivers small electrical impulses throughout the affected parts of the body. This often causes a tingling sensation.

TENS devices also function by stimulating the production of the body's natural painkillers called endorphins.

Side Effects of TENS Machine

One of the foremost reasons behind the growing the popularity of TENS units is that they pose very few risks. This technique is generally safe to use, particularly in comparison to pain relieving pills that come with several side effects. However, TENS may still not be the most appropriate pain management technique for everyone.

Mentioned below are some side effects every Tens 10 machine user must take into account.

Skin Burn: One of the most common risks associated with an elite tens machine is the appearance of burn marks caused by leaving the electrodes on for too long. This problem can be overcome by using products equipped with pre-set modes.
Muscle Twitching: This can occur if the machine is turned too high. Turn the machine down immediately, if this ever happens to you. Always start the machine from zero and increase the intensity only if it feels right.
Skin Irritation: TENS machines may cause skin irritation for some people, particularly if the electrode pads remain attached for too long. Discontinue using the machine if this happens to you.
Open Wounds: Electrode pads should never be placed near damaged skin or open wounds. This can cause further irritation to your wound.
Muscle Soreness: Muscle soreness may be caused by TENS machines operating at too high settings. If you face this problem, take a break for a few days and then start again with low settings.
Fetal Harm: Pregnant women should avoid using TENS machines anywhere near their uterus without discussing with their doctor.
Damage to Facial Nerves: Amongst all potential side effects of TENS, this is probably the most intimidating one. However, this only happens when the electrodes are placed on the face. This is why no TENS unit manufacturer recommends using the pads on the face.
Loss of Muscular Control: Though the probability is very slim, the muscle movement for some people may get affected by a TENS machine. Therefore, it is better not to operate heavy machineries or drive cars while using these units.
Electric Shocks: Unpleasant shocks may be felt, if the pads are not applied in the right manner. This problem can be solved by drying the skin before using TENS and ensuring proper adhesion of the pads.

Conclusion

TENS is a well-known pain management methodology that involves the use of a mild electrical current. It functions by stimulating the production of the body's natural painkillers called endorphins. One of the foremost reasons behind the growing the popularity of TENS units is that they pose very few risks.

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