For many, the thought of pain relief means taking over-the-counter pain reliever pills. But here is a methods of pain relief that don’t involve pain killers that which can save you from the potential side effects of pain killer medications.

TENS (Transcutaneous Electronic Nerve Stimulation) is a device that relieves pain by delivering small electrical pulses to the body via electrodes placed on the skin.

TENS provides a massaging experience which can have a beneficial effect on muscle stiffness. It is very good for soothing overall body fatigue and improving the blood circulation in treated areas.

TENS machines are thought to work in two ways.

• When the machine is set on a high pulse rate (90-130 Hz) it triggers the 'pain gate' to close. This is thought to block a pain nerve pathway to the brain. This is the normal method of use.
• When the machine is set on a low pulse rate (2-5 Hz) it stimulates the body to make its own pain easing chemicals called endorphins. These act a bit like morphine to block pain signals.

The Gate Control Theory states that the pain signals can be interfered with by stimulating the periphery of the pain site, the appropriate signal-carrying nerves at the spinal cord, or particular corresponding areas in the brain stem or cerebral cortex.

It is generally recognised that the ‘Pain gate’ can be shut by stimulating nerves responsible for carrying the touch signal (mechaoreceptors) which enables the relief of pain through massage techniques, rubbing, and also the application of wheat bags and ice packs.

The Gate can also be shut by stimulating the release of endogenous opioids which are opioid (pain-relieving) type chemicals released by the body in response to pain stimuli. Acupuncture and electrical analgesia (TENS) is thought to stimulate their release as a response to stimulation, the opioids then inhibiting the transmission of pain signals in the substantia gelatinosa part of the spinal cord - what is often referred to as the spinal root part of the nerve.

Cautions when using a TENS machine

• Do not place electrode pads on broken or damaged skin.
• Do not place electrode pads over the front or side of the neck, close to eyes or in the mouth.
• Do not use over areas of reduced sensation.
• Do not use near water such as in the bath or shower.
• Do not use when driving or operating machinery.