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5 Precautions You Should Take When Using a TENS Machine

17 May 2016

Louis Stone

TENS refers to transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. The TENS machine passes an electrical current through different sets of pads placed on different parts of your body. That current helps to relieve pain by disrupting the transmission of pain signals by your nervous system. This article discusses some precautions that you should keep in mind if you would like to use this machine as a pain relief mechanism.

Be Careful If Pregnant

Pregnant women are advised to talk to their doctors before they start using the TENS machine. Such a consultation is intended to provide guidance on which parts of the body the sticky pads of the machine should be placed. For instance, the doctor may advise you to avoid placing the pads on your abdomen because the electrical current may affect your unborn baby.

Beware of Water

You should also avoid using the machine in water, such as when you are swimming or taking a shower. This is because the water may cause a short circuit in the machine. This can result in an electrical shock. The machine may also be damaged beyond repair if water gets into it.

Check for Broken Skin

The TENS machine is connected to your body through pads that have a gel. It is therefore prudent for you to make sure that you place those pads on unbroken skin. This precaution is intended to keep you safe from any negative effects that may result from that gel being absorbed into your bloodstream through the broken skin.

Be Careful If You Suffer from Allergies

People who suffer from skin allergies should talk to their doctors before using the TENS machine. This will help them to establish whether they will exhibit an allergic reaction to the gel contained in the pads that are attached to the skin.

Be Careful If You Have Heart Rhythm Issues

People who suffer from heart rhythm problems, such as those who have pacemakers, should never use a TENS machine. The machine may disrupt the operation of the pacemaker. People with conditions like epilepsy should also avoid using the machine, unless their doctor has given his or her approval. This is because the electrical current generated as the machine works may trigger an episode of the disorder.

The TENS machine is a welcome way to combat pain without resorting to medications that may have undesirable side effects. However, the machine may not be suitable for everyone. It is therefore advisable to consult a healthcare professional before you start using this machine. As you use it, keep the precautions above in mind so that you remain safe.

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