TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a type of alternative therapy that focuses on energy. Using many of the same ideas as massage and acupuncture, TENS therapists place electrodes on the skin in certain locations - either on special points on the body or where the patient is experiencing pain. From a small battery pack, electrical shocks are sent through the body that relieve pain and help with other medical conditions.

Unlike some other forms of alternative medicine, TENS therapy has been proven to work for many patients. TENS therapy has the potential to help relieve pain in two main ways. First, electrical signals send messages to the brain to produce more endorphins. Endorphins are natural chemicals produced by the body that produce feelings of euphoria. Additionally, the electrical signals can send messages to the brain that block pain messages.

One of the great benefits of TENS therapy is the ability to perform treatment at home. A TENS therapy professional will help treat pain initially, as well as work with the body to find the right placement of electrodes. From this point, patients can control the battery pack. The medical professional will prescribe a certain routine, usually to use the battery pack several times every day for short intervals.

As an added bonus, there are few side effects to TENS therapy. This makes TENS therapy an especially good choice for those concerned with side effects. In addition, TENS therapy is a good choice for those who are taking prescriptions or dealing with other medical conditions. While taking more medications may adversely react with other substances in the body, TENS therapy is safe to use with other medication. Also, patients with a pacemaker should not use TENS therapy, as it may interfere with its' operation. Pregnant patients should also consult with their doctor before using this therapy.

TENS therapy is also a safe choice because it is approved by the FDA. Because TENS is FDA approved, any insurance company will cover the process. If a doctor prescribes the treatment, most health insurance providers should fully cover the expenses. This is not always the case with some other kinds of alternative therapy.

Those who are not at ease with controlling their own TENS machine can receive more intense treatments at a doctor's office. With these treatments, a medical professional will assist with control of the machine, making sure the electrodes are comfortable and the setting is adequate. TENS should not hurt or make a patient uncomfortable.

Though TENS therapy does not work for everyone, TENS can be extremely beneficial for a wide variety of illness. For information about other types of alternative therapy, please see Alternative Therapy Overview.

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