TENS for Herniated DiscsTENS for herniated discs is the practice of using electrotherapy delivered by a device known as a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit. TENS is used for many different back pain conditions and remains a highly controversial treatment, despite its popularity with back care providers around the world.
Electrostimulation delivers mild electric current to the affected area of the back using small electrode pads. TENS devices can produce low frequency and high frequency stimulation, depending on the specific needs of the patient. Typically, this treatment is combined with other conservative approaches to herniated disc pain relief, such as
chiropractic,
massage
or even
spinal decompression.
Most patients relax and receive electrical stimulation for between 15 to 60 minutes at a time.TENS is thought to work by disrupting nerve signals which bring pain messages to the brain. Neurological functions are electrical in nature and the mild electric shock provided by a TENS unit might prevent the accurate transmission of pain messages. Additionally, TENS might help the body to release endorphins, which are naturally occurring anti-pain chemicals produced in the brain.
Patients who subscribe to the theory of TENS and are definitely suffering from nerve related
disc pain,
such as
foraminal stenosis,
pinched nerves
or
sciatica,
might enjoy some benefits from electrostimulation therapy. As with many treatment options, believing that the treatment will work will assist in increasing the effectiveness of the therapy considerably. Many doctors question whether electrotherapy does anything at all, since statistical evidence compared to placebo techniques is generally inconclusive. One thing is absolutely sure… TENS will NOT change the disc anatomy and will certainly NOT cure the condition. The best a patient might hope for is purely temporary symptomatic relief from their pain.
Advice on TENS for Herniated DiscsOne of my early chiropractors was a big TENS advocate and had me endure countless hours of sitting in an uncomfortable chair ( sitting was hard for me to begin with when my back was bad...) and getting zapped by this annoying and useless therapy. I never enjoyed even one bit of relief from this therapy option and found it to be irritating and unpleasant. Other patients have had completely different experiences and swear by the excellent curative powers of their TENS units. The devices are certainly BIG BUSINESS, with millions being sold every year for a healthy profit. Care providers love them, since they offer an additional income stream which does not even require their attention whatsoever. An assistant can set the patient up on the device and then leave while the poor soul is zapped for the better part of an hour. Do I sound critical? Yes. I am not a fan of this therapy modality. However, you might have a completely different view of TENS once you try it for yourself…TENS for Herniated Discs to Herniated Discs 7/24/08 Revised 7/17/11 |
Sensei Adam Rostocki
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