TENS

only49

hello does anyone else use a tens unit to help with there arthritis i had one for a while and to be honest i am getting fed up being in pain and popping pills although i got them if i need them.

what your experince of using one and do you think it makes a difference from what i understand of it its supposed to do the same as taking tablets ie blocks the pain, just thought i ask

sylvia

k8jenko

Hi Sylvia

I have recently bought myself a TENS machine. There's a lot of different research into the most effective modes of TENS, and what works for some won't work for others. It's all about trial and error, adjusting the frequency, intensity and duration of each electro "pulse". I personally haven't found much benefit from using the machine yet, but then I haven't been keeping track of which settings I've tried!

There's some good research on "acupuncture TENS" which uses a lower frequency across a longer pulse. Electrotherapy.org has a great deal of information if you're patient enough to read through it all!

Hope this helps a bit

Kate

09angel11

Hi Silvia

I would have to agree with Kate, i used the tens machine for my back and shoulders, differing the pulses etcs, but i found it did nothing at all.

Take care
Monica

Starburst

I've been using a TENS machine for quite a while. At first, I found it great but now, I whack it up to the top setting and it does nothing. However, we are all individual and it does work for some people. I hope you're one of those people.

frogmorton

Hiya

I have a tens too and have used it on bursitis and also on pulled muscles etc. As yet I ahve not ried it on the RA type pain. I think I have not had a bad enough flare yet since buying it for one and also I would be a bit scared :oops:

On the other pains I have it full blast too. Started on lower and built up.

Good luck and yes I think it is well worth a try

Love

Toni xx

sharmaine

Hi
I have tried out a Tens machine but to be honest did not find it helped at all. I tiried all the 'supposed cures': copper bracelets; magnetic mattress topper; magnetic bracelets; manuka honey; natural ointments etc.... and to be honest none of them really worked. I do find that taking glucosamine helps with my joint pain and I've taken these regularly for 3 years. My fingers used to be really stiff and painful but since taking glucosamine it seems to have helped.

Like you, I hate having to rely on medication but it really seems to be the only option I have to help with with pain/discomfort.

sharmaine

only49 wrote:

hello does anyone else use a tens unit to help with there arthritis i had one for a while and to be honest i am getting fed up being in pain and popping pills although i got them if i need them.

what your experince of using one and do you think it makes a difference from what i understand of it its supposed to do the same as taking tablets ie blocks the pain, just thought i ask

sylvia

lindalegs

Hi Sylvia,

I bought one last summer and find it does help me. I tend to use it on my knee joint as I have a bit of a problem with it but have also used it on my ankle, shoulder and elbow.

I don't think it would be much use in a flare because I just wouldn't know which joint to put it on ....I think during those times I would need a giant tens machine and just get inside it :shock: :shock:

If mine broke I would buy another.

Luv Legs

ritwren

The one I use can either give acupuncture pulses or a continuous block/buz. I've been using it on my back for about 2 years now and would'nt be without it. I also have acupuncture from my great physio and it was she who recommended the TENS machine. I think it's a matter of trial and error to see what setting suits you best I think.
good luck
rita

jenzie06

I got one about 7yrs ago. I do find it useful and have even slept with it on, if a joint has been so painful (I use tape to keep the pads on the right area, otherwise I'd be worried they'd come off and attach to my husband during the night). I used to use it in conjunction with tablets although now I'm pregnant I've found that its been useful for achey joints.

Could you ask your physio or OT to borrow one to try before you buy? That's what I did but it was a long time ago, I don't know if they are still available through the NHS.