Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a therapy that uses electrical current delivered through electrodes to the skin for pain relief. Electrical stimulation of the nerves may encourage the body to produce natural painkillers called endorphins, which may block the perception of pain.
Usually two electrode wires that conduct electrical current are connected from the
machine to the skin. The electrodes are often placed on the area of pain or at a
pressure point, creating a circuit of electrical impulses that travels along nerve fibers.
The machine can be set for different wavelength frequency , such as a steady flow of
electrical current or a burst of electrical current, and for intensity of electrical current.
These settings are usually determined by your physical therapist or doctor .
After an introduction to and instruction in this therapy ,TENS can be done at home.