TENS Therapy

What is TENS Therapy

TENS Therapy is short for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS).  This is a painless therapy used by chiropractors and physicians to reduce pain.

Typically, TENS therapy units have four electrodes attached to adhesive pads that stick to the skin.  The therapist will increase the electricity to the pads that alternate current between positive and negative leads.  The current will be increased until it is strong enough for the patient to feel it working but not too strong to avoid convulsing the muscle.  This creates a tingling or buzzing sensation in the area of the electrodes.  These mild pulsating electrical impulses are designed to overstimulate the sensory nerves and release endorphins.  Once the nerves have been overstimulated, the endorphins numb the pain in the treated area.

TENS Therapy usually lasts 10-15 minutes and may be performed before or after a chiropractic adjustment.