TENS Machines.... worth the cost? - Pain Management Message Board

aussiejono · 05-22-2008, 09:47 PM

I have chronic upper back/neck/shoulder pain.... have been wondering about a TENS machine.

What are peoples experiences with them

Do they only releive the pain while it is actualy on you and running, or does the releif last?

Can you were it and go about your job/home duties etc?

cmpgirl · 05-22-2008, 09:57 PM

The TENS unit that I used, way back in the day, was loaned to me by my then PM doc. They figured it was better for me to try it out first, before shellling out the cash. (or insurance co-pay)

I had no luck with it, unfortunately. But my specific condition requires low impact and a very light hand, so to speak. So the TENS made my muscles feel like an open wound that someone had just poured alcohol into. Ouch!

I have heard many people say that they couldn't function without them. So as with most modalities, different people have different experiences. Could your doc loan you one to try?

If you decide to give it a try, I wish you the best of luck. Please let us know if you do. Take care, CMP/MM

music47 · 05-22-2008, 10:02 PM

Hi Aussie

My husband has had one for several years. He is a service connected Disabled Veteran with a lot of back pain from an injury. The machine has helped his pain about fifty percent. It's different for each individual. He hasn't had any problems with side effects. He turns it on every morning and goes about mowing grass,feeding the animals,etc. I know if he had it to do over, he would have the surgery.

Take care, Nadine

Arthr Itis · 05-23-2008, 07:11 AM

I was using a machine similar to a TENS unit about 3 years ago. It didn't matter how or when I used it my upper back pain increased a great deal. I tried it at a low setting and got the same increase as the higher setting caused. After one month of doing this every day I sent the thing back. When I talked to the PM about it his response was "some people just can't use these things". With whatever is wrong with my body, my upper back/neck in particular, anything that vibrates or massages or sometimes touches the area causes a pain spike. Sorry I can't be much help.
Fred

scrappinmaniac · 05-23-2008, 09:59 AM

Hello Aussie ~ I hope a TENS machine is the same thing as a TENS unit. I have never heard of a TENS machine, only a TENS unit.

What are peoples experiences with them?

I have problems with the thoracic and lumbar areas of my back. On the advice of my PM doctor at the time, I purchased and began using a TENS unit last March. It is a Godsend.

Do they only relieve the pain while it is actually on you and running, or does the relief last?

I do think that the unit only relieves my pain while I have it turned on, but I can have it on as many times a day as I feel is necessary.

Can you wear it and go about your job/home duties etc?

Yes! That's the great thing about it, it's small and discreet, and it has a clip on it so you can easily clip it on your pants and be on your way.

Whatever decision you make, I sincerely wish you only the best.