Tens transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator

physiotherapy

1. TENS / TNS transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation

2. TENS DEFINATION: Tens stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation TENS is the application of a pulsed rectangular wave current via surface electrodes on the patient’s skin

3. PARAMETERS : Pulse shape or waveform Pulse width or duration Frequency or rate Intensity or amplitude

4. PARAMETERS: There are 4 parameters PULSE SHAPE rectangular PULSE WIDTH 50 – 300 micro seconds FREQUENCY 2 – 600 HZ (usually 150 HZ ) INTENSITY 0 – 60 mA

5. APPLICATION OF TENS

6. PLACEMENT OF ELECTRODE : Acupunture points Trigger point , motor points Dermatomes , Spinal segments Areas with greatest pain intensity Peripheral nerves May be horizontal or vertical Crossed or un crossed

7. USES OF TENS: relief of acute and chronic pain Angina pectoris Neck and back pain Knee pain Sports injuries Arthritis

8. TREATMENT: Single treatment session of max 40 mins daily pt stay connected with portable tens ( the unit is on when required )

9. DANGER OF TENS : Electrolyte reaction below the electrodes- ( high frequency(high TENS),long duration) CONTRAINDICATIONS : TENS is contraindicated in The region of a cardiac pacemaker Neurological conditions Malignancy Carotid sinus (in front of neck) Active infections , skin conditions

10. PROCEDURE: 1. Noting the pain:

11. 2. Keep a record of where the pain extends

12. 3. Decide whether the pain is shooting horizontally or vertically

13. 4. Choosing Electrodes

14. 5.Attach the electrodes to the tens 6.Check the tens :

15. 7.Clean the skin

16. 8.Place electrode 9.Do not place directly on joint Place it on soft tissues

17. For larger area 10. Turn on the tens