Types Of TENS Employed In A Physiotherapy Clinic In Calgary

TENS or ‘Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation’ is a widespread technique in physiotherapy and has solid scientific principles. Many people have heard about this technique. However, the fact is that many people still don’t know exactly what it is. Therefore, knowing the types of TENS employed in a physiotherapy clinic in Calgary and their indications and contraindications can be very interesting.

What is TENS?

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation also known as TENS, refers to a safe, affordable therapy that consists of sending low-voltage electrical impulses to the dermis through conductive plates called electrodes. The electrodes are placed on the skin near the area of pain, and the impulses stimulate the nerve fibers. By stimulating nerves, TENS aims to neutralize painful signals, preventing them from reaching the brain. As a result, the patient does not have the sensation or even the perception of this discomfort. TENS impulses stimulate the secretion of endorphins that provide natural analgesia.

What are the applications of TENS?

A physiotherapy clinic in Calgary recommends TENS to improve various pathological and uncomfortable conditions. It relieves various types of acute pain, such as low back pain, neck pain, post-operative pain, muscle pain, sprains, bone fractures, post-herpetic neuralgia and much more.

TENS also works in chronic situations, such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, peripheral nerve injuries, angina, metastatic pain, etc. It also works in other conditions, such as motion sickness, nausea, improving blood flow, reducing symptoms associated with diabetic neuropathies.

Solid improvements in the regeneration of wounds and ulcers in patients with diabetes and excellent effects in the treatment of sports injuries and in the reduction of muscular atrophy are also observed. There are some variants of TENS commonly used by a physiotherapy clinic in Calgary, which can be chosen according to the preferences of the professional and also in line with the condition to be treated.

Conventional TENS

Conventional TENS or high-frequency and intensity pulsed currents, delivers electrical impulses at a high frequency (typically 50-100 Hz). These electrical pulses are described as tingling or buzzing sensations. Conventional TENS aims to block pain signals from reaching the brain, providing immediate pain relief. With the application of high-frequency TENS for a longer interval, a physiotherapy clinic in Calgary may reduce the patient’s perception of pain.

Low-Frequency TENS

Low-frequency TENS operates at a lower frequency (usually 2-10 Hz). The electrical pulses are delivered at a slower rate and are described as a tapping sensation. Low-frequency TENS is believed to stimulate the body’s endorphin release, promoting natural pain relief.

Burst Mode TENS

Burst mode TENS delivers bursts of high-frequency electrical pulses. This pattern is based on natural nerve firing patterns and may be more effective in reducing pain perception. Burst mode TENS is often preferred by individuals who find conventional TENS uncomfortable or ineffective.

Micro-current TENS

Micro-current TENS utilizes extremely low-level electrical currents to stimulate cells and soft-tissues. These currents are similar to the body’s natural electrical currents and may promote tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.

Modulation Mode TENS

Modulation mode TENS, also known as variable or modulated frequency TENS, automatically adjusts the frequency and intensity of electrical stimulation throughout the treatment session. By employing this method, a physiotherapy clinic in Calgary addresses various types of chronic pain conditions and may provide more consistent pain relief.

Acupuncture-like TENS

Electro-acupuncture combines TENS with acupuncture principles. It involves delivering electrical pulses through acupuncture needles inserted into specific acupuncture points on the body. It aims to stimulate the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms and balance energy flow along meridians. It is commonly used for various pain conditions, including musculoskeletal pain, headaches, and menstrual cramps.

Physiotherapy clinic in Calgary

These are the types of TENS, their indications and everything you needed to know about the topic. Did you like the content? Are you interested in the treatment? So, how about getting in touch with us? Visit Sewa Physiotherapy Clinic now. We are the finest physiotherapy clinic in Calgary offering TENS for long term pain relief.