The Use of Combined TENS/ EMS Machines for Muscular Pain
If you have suffered from muscular pain from surgery or a sports injury you will know how excruciating and long lasting it can be. There are a number of options you can consider that are drug free including the use of a TENS machine for pain or for muscle stimulation. Using a TENS machine to stimulate the nerves can lessen the immediate pain and restoring muscle tone by stimulation will help to decrease long term pain and heal the damaged muscle. Although TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulators) and EMS (Electronic Muscle Stimulators) are similar and can be used with the same piece of equipment they differ in how they work.
Electronic Muscle Stimulators (EMS)
When you use EMS a low voltage current is passed from the electrodes attached to the skin into the nerves that stimulate the affected muscle. This causes the muscle to contract and relax continuously, effectively working the muscle. The muscle’s tone is increased and blood flow to the muscle is also stimulated. This helps to heal the damaged tissue. It is best to use EMS in combination with physical therapy. Improvement in circulation of the combined treatments helps to heal the muscles and remove any accumulated toxins.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulators (TENS)
TENS works in a different way to EMS. A small electric current is used to stimulate the nerves that transmit pain messages to the brain. This has the effect of blocking the pain messages so the brain does not perceive any pain. In addition TENS units can also be used to stimulate the production of the body’s natural painkillers, endorphins, so the pain relief continues after the TENS machine is turned off.
TENS/EMS Combined Machines
If you are suffering from muscular pain a combined machine that can be used as a TENS unit and an EMS unit would be the best choice. EMS is also a good choice for anyone who has to spend a long time immobile after surgery or an accident to keep the muscles toned and healthy.
Safety Considerations
Before using either a TENS or an EMS machine make sure you check with your doctor to ensure it is suitable for you and the pain that you are experiencing. These types of units shouldn’t be used by everyone. Please see