What is TENS?

TENS, EMS, or  NMES is the application of low-level electrical current to nerves and muscle-motor fibres via electrodes (patches) placed on the skin. This treatment is effective in the reduction of swelling, pain, muscle spasms, the improvement of circulation, and muscle strengthening. Since it is our goal to educate the public about the benefits of electrotherapy, please read the following:

TENS and EMS units are regulated by the Food and Drug administration under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. Under Federal Law, these devices require a prescription to purchase unless you are a licensed healthcare provider, This means, it is illegal to sell or purchase a TENS or EMS unit without a prescription. There are certain circumstances when a TENS  or EMS unit should not be used and your healthcare provider can advise you of these. There are only one or two devices approved for purchase without a prescription or "over-the-counter" (OTC), one being the BAKWEL http://www.tensproducts.com/proddetail.asp?prod=BAKWEL.

The Federal Government has been known to prosecute individuals and companies who sell these devices without a prescription. Consequently customers who purchase illegally from a company or individual selling illegally may be left without warranty or support for their devices and products. For more information please visit http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/HomeHealthandConsumer/ConsumerProducts/ucm142478.htm.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TENS AND EMS?
TENS is an acronym for Transcutaneous (through the skin) Electrical Nerve Stimulation. Electrical impulses are sent through the skin to stimulate nerves and block pain signals being sent by the injury site. These electrical impulses also stimulate the body to produce its own natural pain relieving substances which are released during and after treatment.

EMS stands for Electro Muscle Stimulation. EMS electrical impulses are similar to the signals sent by the brain to cause muscle contraction/relaxation. EMS is especially useful in muscle re-education and strengthening such as after an acute injury or surgery, and can also be beneficial for tight and spasming muscles.

OTHER TYPES OF ELECTROTHERAPY
Interferential is a stronger, deeper type of TENS treatment using two currents which superimpose to create a low frequency current deep beneath the skin.

MicroCurrent therapy uses extremely small amounts of current, similar to the levels of current produced in the body and sometimes barely felt, to promote healing, increase blood flow, and reduce swelling. Microcurrent therapy has recently shown promise as a treatment for macular degeneration.

Galvanic treatment uses high voltage pulses and is most commonly used to treat acute injuries associated with major trauma and tissue damage.