GENERAL DESCRIPTION
TENS, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, is a method of relieving
symptomatic chronic intractable pain.
WHAT IS TENS?
TENS is a treatment whereby electrical impulses are applied to nerves
through electrode pads placed on the skin. TENS is non-invasive and does not
use pharmaceuticals.
TENS uses a two-pronged approach to pain relief. First, sensory nerves are tar-
geted, stimulating them to block pain signals and prevent their transmission
to the brain. Second, TENS promotes the production of endorphins — neuro-
chemicals occurring naturally in the brain — which have analgesic properties.
INDICATIONS AND CONTRAINDICATIONS
Read the operation manual before using this TENS device.
Federal law (USA) restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physi-
cian.
Indications
TENS is indicated to be used under a physician's prescription for the symp-
tomatic relief of chronic intractable pain.
Contraindications
•
Any electrode placement which applies current to the carotid (neck)
region.
•
Patients with implanted electronic devices (for example, a pacemaker)
or metallic implants should not undergo TENS treatment without first
consulting a physician.
•
Any electrode placement which causes current to flow transcerebrally
(through the head).
•
The use of unit whenever pain symptoms are undiagnosed and the etiol-
ogy is unknown.
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