If you want to use a tens machine, it has never been this simple. In the past, the system and dials were complex while only for the medically trained to use. Tens machines were only used by medical professionals but in today’s world, the process has been simplified. With most of the models, there is usually a simple two-button system, one dial is for the strength of output and the other is for the type of signal being sent. Now that you’ve purchased your tens machine, let’s look at the basics of how to use your machine.
1.Pad Placement
To use a tens machine properly, one of the first things you want to consider is pad placement. Where you put the pads will depend on where your experiencing pain.
a. Before you place your pads, you will want to ensure that the area in pain is clean and dry, this will help with the adhesion of the pads and ensure long-term use.
b. Depending on the instructions of your device use a tens machine electrode gel before you place it on your skin.
c. Ensure the pin connectors are in place on both the pads and the tens device.
d. To use your tens machine properly you will need to place the pads as close to the location of the pain as possible while keeping the pain site in between the pads. This allows the current to flow directly through the pain site, flushing out the pain and increasing recovery.
f. When turning on the unit, be sure the strength dial is always at its lowest point. Then gradually turn up until it is at a comfortable level, remember that sometimes less is more.
g. To use your tens machine properly, always refer to the user manual as some machines have specific instructions.
2. What Kind of Pain Can The Tens Machine Help?
You can use a tens machine for all types of pain, here is a list of the most common uses.
- Chronic Muscle Conditions
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Migraines
- Cervical radiculopathy
- Hip Pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Carpal Tunnel
- Tennis Elbow
- Frozen Shoulder
- Sciatica
- Arthritis in Joints
- Multiple Sclerosis
3. When Do You Replace The Pads?
The easiest way to tell that your electrode pads need to be replaced is that they are not sticky anymore. The life length of your pads will be determined by a few factors such as how often that you use them, the capacity of which you use them, the quality of the pads, where you store them, and how you handle them. One of the best ways to increase the life of your pads is to never put water on them and make sure your skin is always clean and dry before you use it. You can also extend the use of a tens machine electrode pad by buying more than one pair and rotating between them.
4.How Often Should I Use My Tens Machine
While you use a tens machine the length of each session, will be around 20 minutes and the frequency is up to you. Some user manuals will suggest 2-3 times per day, depending on the pain and if the pain is going away. It is possible to use your machine for up to 2 hours on lower settings. There are no noticeable problems from tens machine overuse however, we don’t suggest you put that to test. For acute or chronic pain, 2-3 times per day with 20-minute internals is common. Chronic pain suggests lower settings, with a longer duration (20 minutes plus). For acute pain, we recommend using higher settings for 20 minutes at a time (shorter duration)
5. What Do You Do If Your Tens Machine Is Broken?
Always refer to your user manual and the company you bought the machine from, you will have to ship your tens machine unit back to the supplier. They will review the product to check for any misuse or if the product has a defect. The outcome of their investigation will usually determine if you receive a full refund or if you need to buy a replacement machine. All tens machines have a warranty, you can usually find your warranty inside of the user manual.
6.What Should I Do After I Use My Tens Machine?
First make sure you turn down the strength of the electrodes, then power off your unit. Unplug the electrodes carefully and then place the plastic wrap or pad cover over the pads. Handle the pads gently and make sure your hands are dry while touching the pads. Store your pads in a safe area, out of reach of children and any animals that could tamper with them. Clean the area of your skin where the pads were placed with a damp cloth. Next either remove the battery if it is a replaceable battery, this helps extend the length of the battery or plug in your device to charge it so it’s ready for the next use.
–Relief Medic is dedicated to providing you with powerful relaxation tools to calm your mind and body. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to send us a message.
