0%

If you are suffering from chronic muscle or nerve pain, then an EMS or TENS machine can offer you quick relief in a non-addictive, medicine-free way. While both these machines are useful in achieving the results, they both work differently. This is the reason it is important to know the difference between the two to choose the right one for your condition.

What is EMS?

EMS, also known as Electric Muscle Stimulation, is the process that uses external electrical charge or pulse to cause muscle contractions. This pulse is created by the EMS machine or device. The electrodes are placed on the skin and the electric charge is transferred to the muscle to trigger contraction.

The EMS provides muscle relief by stimulating the inflamed muscles. The units are designed in such a way that they can treat swelling and pain by putting strain on the muscles as well as its supporting joints. Many doctors and physical therapists recommend using EMS units to help them achieve muscular pain relief. They are very helpful in treating spasms as well as edema that are known to be the leading cause of muscle loss and discomfort.

Some physical therapists also recommend EMS units to stimulate blood circulation. That is because they are able to release tension in muscles and also treat stiffness in joints. They are particularly helpful in working the neck as well as the back area that suffer the most due to tension in the rest of the body.

What is TENS?

TENS, also known as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, are designed to provide relief by sending painless impulses through the skin to the nerves below. The electronic stimulation eliminates pain that a person may feel due to chronic health condition or a nerve disorder.

The pain therapy offered by TENS can provide pain relief without the use of medication. The electrical pulses trigger the nerve endings to create endorphins that eliminate the pain signals. TENS units work as a distraction mechanism by stimulating the pulses that takes your mind off the pain and keep pain signals from reaching your brain. Simply put, these units work towards creating your very own painkillers, also known as endorphins, that make you feel relaxed after a treatment.

It is mainly used in case of acute pain, pain after surgery, post-operative incision pain, migraines, tension headaches, cancer pain etc.

Which one to choose

The choice between Tens Ems Machine depends mainly on your condition. If you are confused between the two, you should seek help from your doctor who can recommend the best device after thoroughly diagnosing your condition.

Many patients often choose TENS over EMS because they have already received this treatment at the therapist’s office. However, that doesn’t mean it is the only option for you. Ask your doctor or physical therapist to help you choose the right type of machine that will help you get pain relief without relying on medicines.