Many individuals, especially those who are aging, are experiencing different kinds of body pains. This type of pain can significantly affect one’s daily life. However, in recent years, TENS Machines have helped considerably reduce body pains.
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5 Best TENS Machines in UK
Now that you have a clearer understanding of the TENS machine let us look at the 5 Best TENS machine in the market.
1. EMS Massage Tens Machine Therapy Device for Pain Management and Rehabilitation
You can never go wrong with this TENS unit. It is from a trusted TENS manufacturer who has been producing reliable TENS machine. This particular unit has 16 different modes, 10 hours of battery usage, and high-quality pads.
It features an acupuncture mode that’s best used around the shoulder area. It also has a tapping mode that your lower back will surely love. With this product, you can target your shoulders and your lower back simultaneously with two different modes.
When you buy this product, you also will receive 8 pcs of electrode pads, pad holder, a USB charger, a USB cable, a pouch, and a user manual.
Pros:
- Easy to set up and use.
- Portable and lightweight
- Reusable and reliable adhesive pads
- Multiple modes
- Acupuncture setting
- Optimal pain relief
Cons:
- The sticky pads are too small and may lose their stickiness after some time.
2. The TENS Company Med-Fit 3 Digital Dual Channel TENs Machine
Here is a dual-channel TENS machine that has a clear and large display, making it easier for the user to check the duration, frequency, and intensity level of the device right away.
It has 5 modes that you can choose from, giving you an option to switch. This is ideal for those who have different levels of pain as they are able to choose from these modes, especially on targeted areas where persistent pain occurs.
This TENS device is great for reducing or eliminating back pain, leg pain, arthritis, fractures, tendonitis, and a whole lot more.
This device comes with self-adhesive electrodes which are 5×5 cm in size, 2 patient leads, a 9V PP3 battery, instruction manual, and a patient’s guide to TENS.
Pros:
- Clear and large display screen
- Long battery life
- Portable and compact
- Easy to follow manual
- Easy to use interface
- Good power
- Multiple mode choices
- Responsive customer service
Cons:
- Limited pulse programs
3. OSITO TENS UNIT
The Ositisu TENS unit features 25 pre-install mode that has up to level 50 intensity. The pre-installed modes it has are ideal for pain caused by fatigue. Some of the modes installed are acupuncture, cupping, shiatsu, deep tissue, and hammering.
It is also a dual-channel unit, which means you can set each channel’s intensities. Its adhesive pads come in a unique number 8 shapes that can perfectly fit the crevices of your back or arms regardless of your body’s position.
This TENS machine is small and lightweight, which makes it portable. You can take it with you anywhere. It also has an FDA certification, which assures you that it is safe for use.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Long battery life
- Rechargeable and Portable
- 25 modes
- Up to Level 50 intensity
- Reliable adhesive pads
- Amazing pain relief
Cons:
- Not ideal for someone who needs strong impulses
4. YK15AB HealthmateForever TENS Unit
This AAA battery-powered TENS unit has four outputs that can be set independently with different levels of intensity. You can use up to 8 pads at the same time. It has a remote shape design that is simple and straightforward to use.
It features six therapeutic modes which are kneading, acupuncture, tapping, capping, crapping, and random. It also has nine costume mode designed for the wrist, knee, foot, ankle, hip, elbow, back, neck and shoulders.
This TENS machine also comes with a timer feature. It automatically stops when the time is up.
Pros:
- Lifetime Warranty
- Easy to use
- FDA approved
- Has a belt clip
- Portable and Powerful
- Strong pad adhesive
- High pain relief
Cons:
- Unresponsive customer service
5. TEC.BEAN Tens Machine Rechargeable Tens Unit Impulse Mini Massager
This product will make you feel like you have your massage therapist at home. It features 12 TENS modes that help reduce pain in your back, neck, shoulder, elbow, and the like.
This makes it a great device that people with constant pain can get as it does not only ease their burden with pain but also aid in sleep and relaxation.
The modes provided can be increased and decreased too depending on the intensity level that you desire. With this, electrode pads are also provided, which are reusable and flexible. And because it comes with a timer and variable intensity feature, you are able to customize the modes according to how you like it.
This device comes with a dual-channel and a safe and portable design for convenience. What’s more is that it has a mini massager too, giving you that extra relaxation after a tiring and painful day.
Lastly, it has a safe lithium battery that you can recharge after it runs out, and its FDA-cleared too, making it a quality device that you can surely trust.
Pros:
- Multiple TENS mode settings
- Safe rechargeable lithium battery
- Reliable pad adhesive
- Portable
- FDA-cleared
Cons:
- Unclear manual because of the small print size.
What is a TENS Machine?
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation unit or also known as the TENS machine is a device that helps people manage pain. It sends small amounts of electrical impulses with the use of electrodes that are in the adhesive pads.
Once the body receives the electrical impulses through the adhesive pads, the signal for pain coming from the brain and spinal cord is blocked. This process also encourages the stimulation of endorphins.
When Should You Use a TENS Machine?
TENS machine helps the following types of pains:
- Back and neck pain
- Joint pain
- Postoperative pain
- Labor pain
- Period pain
The TENS machine is also suggested to be used by those who are experiencing these conditions:
- Spinal cord injury
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Fibromyalgia
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Sports-related injuries
- Arthritis
- Endometriosis
The machine itself has control buttons that allow people to control the impulses they administer to achieve pain relief.
Who should NOT Use the TENS Machine?
The TENS machine is generally safe for most people if you happen to be experiencing the following conditions below, you should refrain from using this machine.
- Pregnancy
- Epilepsy
- Heart issues
- If you have metal or electrical implant such as a peacemaker.
The Effectiveness of the TENS Machine
The effectivity of the machine varies from one person to another and due to several factors as well. Here are some factors that may affect the effectiveness of the device:
Tolerance
Individuals who continuously use the TENS machine often find themselves tolerant of its effect. The amount of stimulus that they give themselves will not provide the same amount of pain relief from the beginning. This is because they have already developed tolerance.
Those who have developed tolerance can increase the amount of stimulus that they get every session. However, it is best to consult a doctor first before increasing your TENS machine use to avoid complications.
Placement of Electrodes
The effects of the location of the adhesive pads that contain the electrode affect the machine’s effectivity. To know where to place the pads effectively, it is best to consult an acupuncture expert as they are well versed in acupuncture points.
They can help you understand the nerves under the skin. This way, you will be able to pinpoint which area you should put the pad on to get the optimum pain relief.
The Longevity of TENS Machine Pain Relief
Similar to its effectiveness, the duration of its pain relief varies from one person to another. Some people reported that the pain relief only lasts when the machine is turned on while others said that their pain relief lasted for 24 hours.
Choosing the Right TENS Machine
If you are planning on purchasing a TENS machine to be used at home, look out for these factors to find the most suitable one for you.
Modes
There are specific electrical settings for different pain. This is why it is ideal that you make sure the TENS machine you are purchasing has a mode that targets your pain area. Buying a TENS unit that has multiple modes is suitable if you have numerous pain areas.
Number of Adhesive Pads
As mentioned above, the adhesive pads contain the electrodes that connect the body with the electrical impulses. If you have multiple areas in your body that are experiencing pain, it is best to buy a TENS machine that has plenty of pads.
Battery
The TENS machines can either be powered by AAA or Lithium Batteries. Ideally, it is better to get a lithium battery-powered TENS machine as they are rechargeable. They also last as long as one week without getting drained from usage.
Instructions
Some TENS machines have straightforward interfaces, while some are complicated. You should get a TENS machine that provides a comprehensive instruction manual. This way, you will know how to connect electrodes and how to control each mode without any problems.
Customer Service
TENS machines are not cheap, which is why you want to get the best value of your money. To do this, you must look for a manufacturer that has reliable customer service. This way, if you happen to encounter technical difficulties and issues with your machine, you can immediately get the appropriate response.
Budget
If you are buying anything, your budget must be one of your highest consideration. There are some TENS machines out there that will not break your bank. However, you should manage your expectations.
The more money you pay, the more features and modes you get. Although basic TENS machine models will still do their purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are TENS machines safe?
Yes, they are relatively safe. However, individuals who are pregnant, have metal or electronic implant, and heart conditions are discouraged from using this as it can have an adverse reaction with these preexisting medical conditions.
How many times a day should you use a TENS machine?
The number of times you should use your TENS machine depends on your level of pain. If your pain is too excruciating and you are looking for immediate relief, then you should use your TENS machine.
However, frequent use of the TENS machine can cause tolerance, which is why it is ideal that you use it only when needed.
What are the side effects of a TENS Machine?
Although the TENS machine is safe to be used, it can cause several side effects. Here are a few of them:
- Soreness of the muscle
- Skin burn
- Skin irritation
- Muscle twitching
- Itchiness
In what areas should you not use the TENS machine?
The TENS machine should not be used in areas around the neck or where the skin is thin and sensitive. It is also not advisable to place the pads in moist areas such as the armpits.
Are TENS and EMS machines the same?
No, TENS and EMS machines are not similar. The TENS machines are utilized to relieve pain, while EMS machines are used for building muscle mass.
EMS machines work by contracting the muscles. These repeated constructions will result in the muscles growing over time. Meanwhile, what TENS machine do is that they block the pain signals by sending electrodes around the area that feels pain.
Final Thoughts
Continually being in pain can have severe implications in an individual’s daily life. However, pain medications have been known to cause addiction. This is why finding a way to manage pain without medication is much more ideal.
If you are looking for ways to relieve your pain without the use of medication, the TENS machine is for you. They are drug-free and safe to be used. However, never use this if you are pregnant or if you have metal and electronic implants.
The effectivity of the TENS machine differs from one person to another. This is because each one of us has different levels of pain. This also means that the amount of frequency and intensity of TENS machine usage will differ.
If you are looking for a TENS machine for your home, check out the considerations mentioned above as they will surely help you find your right fit. Many TENS machines in the market will suit your needs and preferences.
Check out the best 5 TENS machines that we have listed above. Each of them has a feature of their own that makes them efficient and worth the money. You might just find the TENS machine that you are looking for.