Can Tens Machine help with MS
By Tens Machine UK Content Team . Last Updated Wednesday, 3rd July 2024
What is MS (Multiple Sclerosis)?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that targets the protective sheath (myelin) surrounding nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This damage impairs the nervous system's ability to transmit signals effectively, leading to a broad spectrum of symptoms, including physical, cognitive, and sometimes psychiatric challenges. Common symptoms can include issues like double vision, vision loss, eye pain, muscle weakness, and difficulties with sensation or coordination. MS manifests in various forms, with symptoms either appearing in isolated episodes (relapsing forms) or gradually worsening over time (progressive forms).
- In relapsing forms, symptoms may temporarily subside between attacks, though lasting neurological damage often occurs, particularly as the disease progresses.
- In progressive forms, symptoms steadily worsen as bodily functions decline, particularly if the condition remains untreated.
The exact cause of MS remains unknown, but it is believed to involve either the immune system attacking myelin or the failure of cells responsible for
myelin production. Potential triggers for this immune response include genetic factors, environmental influences such as viral infections, and immune system dysfunction.
What are typical MS symptoms?
It may be best to show to discuss what are the early symptoms to look out for, these are the typical early signs and symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis:
- Muscle Weakness - This usually affects one side of your face, body or below your waist.
- Strange Sensations or Numbness - The weird numbness or sensation usually affects one side of your body, face or again below your wait.
- Eyesight - Strange changes to your vision such as partial vision loss, double vision or optic neuritis can be early signs of MS.
Moving onto more common and progressed symptoms, these may include:
- Dizziness
- Loss of coordination and balance
- Mood Changes
- Difficulty controlling your bladder (overactive or overflow)
- Muscle spasms and muscle stiffness
- Cognitive difficulties: memory, learning, judgment or even general concentration
Please be aware that these symptoms will differ from person to person, and day to day, it’s likely you will experience one or two of these symptoms at a specific time, but not all of them at once.
What is a Tens Machine?
A
TENS machine, also known as a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation device, is a compact, battery-operated unit designed to alleviate pain through electrical stimulation. The device uses electrodes, either wired or wireless, which are placed on the skin to deliver small electrical currents. These currents produce sensations such as prickling, buzzing, or tingling around the area where the electrodes are applied.
TENS machines are widely recognised for their effectiveness in relieving pain associated with various conditions, including muscle spasms, arthritis, Neuropathic pain and chronic pain. By stimulating the nerves, these devices can interrupt pain signals and promote the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.
One of the significant advantages of
TENS machines is their portability, enabling users to continue with their daily activities while managing their pain. However, there are some limitations to their use. For example, they should not be used while swimming, showering, or sometimes even driving, to ensure safety and avoid interference with the device's operation. Additionally, TENS should definitely not be used if you have a pacemaker or other similar conditions (heart related).
How can a Tens Machine help with MS?
TENS may be a good option to reduce spasticity and general pain caused by Multiple Sclerosis, and these types of machines are low cost, super easy to use and have no adverse side effects associated with them - which makes them a favorable option for people with chronic conditions and injuries.
Here are several key advantages that make
TENS machines an appealing choice for those with chronic conditions like MS:
- Symptom Relief: TENS machines have been proven effective in reducing muscle spasticity and alleviating pain, which are common symptoms in MS patients. By interrupting pain signals to the brain and promoting the release of endorphins, TENS Machines can enhance comfort and significantly improve the quality of life.
- Ease of Use: TENS units are designed for straightforward operation, typically featuring simple controls to adjust the intensity and frequency of electrical impulses. This user-friendly design makes them accessible to individuals of all ages.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to other medical treatments and devices, TENS machines are relatively low-cost. This affordability ensures that more patients can access and benefit from this form of therapy without a significant financial burden.
- Minimal Side Effects: One of the most significant advantages of TENS therapy is the lack of serious adverse side effects. Unlike some medications that can have harmful consequences, TENS machines provide a non-invasive and drug-free method of pain management.
What can TENS Therapy treat?
Tens machines have become a very favorable method of pain relief and treatment, especially for those suffering from muscle spasms, pain, chronic conditions, labour pains, injuries and sprains - TENS covers a wide variety.
Typically, TENS is used for the following conditions:
There has been times where
Tens Machine Electrodes create irritations on the skin, however there are ways around this, by using sensitive skin electrodes.