You’ve probably heard a lot about muscle stimulators recently and chances are, you’ve heard TENS being mentioned, as well. They are both commonly advertised machines that you can get easily for home use. But what is the difference between these two treatments? If you aren’t sure about this then you won’t be able to make the best purchase decision.

The main difference between the two is that a muscle stimulator is used to cause muscle contraction, while TENS focuses on nerve stimulation and tries to avoid contracting the muscles. Both use electrical pulses to do their job, but have different purposes.

TENS
The main use of a TENS machine is for pain relief, particularly in the case of chronic pain. It is most often used for joint or muscle pain that won’t go away, but can also be used to help treat nerve problems without resorting to drugs. It isn’t uniformly effective, that is, different people will have different results. For some, TENS electrical pulses interrupt the pain signals so effectively that they are literally without pain. For others, the relief is nearly non-existent, but most commonly, this treatment provides considerable relief from the chronic pain that haunts the user.

On occasion, with medical consent, the TENS can be used at the end of pregnancy, to help alleviate the pains associated with early labor. Since this is only recommended with a doctor’s permission, it’s not a good idea to try this without checking first. TENS can be used for up to 12 hours and consists of two small electrodes that are placed on either side of the area where the pain originates. The higher frequencies tend to block the pain signals, while much lower frequencies will stimulate the body to produce endorphins which naturally reduce pain.

Muscle Stimulation
This is a very similar machine to the TENS, also using two electrodes to send electrical pulses through the body. However, the purpose is quite different. Here, the purpose is to cause the muscles to contract and the reason has nothing to do with pain relief. Muscle stimulation has been found to be an effective method of training the muscles. The electrical impulses mimic those of the brain to tell muscles to move. There are two main reasons to use a muscle stimulator.

Training: Using electrical stimulation for training purposes is very useful. It allows the person to focus on specific muscle groups by choosing the right frequency and will work just those muscles, working them and conditioning them. This is particularly useful for aesthetic purposes.

Medical: When it comes to therapeutic use, electrical pulses can be used to stimulate muscles that are not being used. This can keep them conditioned and prevents atrophying. It’s a useful measure in medical situations.

Both TENS machines and muscle stimulators have their uses, but they are very different in their reasons for being used. If you are looking for an alternative to standard pain relief, then the TENS machine is what you should be looking at. However, for the prevention of atrophied muscles and to define specific muscle groups, the muscle stimulator is the way to go.

Now that you know the difference between these two different types of therapies, you’ll be able to choose the correct one. These machines can be bought for home use and you can safely use them yourself, as long as you follow the directions and take care not to use them if you have heart problems or a pacemaker.

Source: content4reprint.com

Pain management is a growing and changing industry. A safe, effective, non-addictive treatment seems like the unreachable Holy Grail, but many patients feel they have found it through the use of TENS units. Treatments which were once thought to be quack medicine is now proving to be as effective and safer than many of the current drug therapies. There is an increasing need for managing pain as the baby boomer generation begins to age and chronic, age related aches and pains begin to arise. Rather than turning to costly and potentially dangerous pain medications, many patients are looking for other ways to alleviate their pains, such as can be found in the use of TENS and portable TENS units.

T.E.N.S. units stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. Transcutaneous literally means across the skin. These units work to alleviate pain by sending a mild electrical pulse through the skin to stimulate the nerves beneath. The specific nerves targeted will determine the area of pain relief. When using these, the patient should be sure to use a cream that is designed especially to help conduct electricity from the unit through his skin. This will increase the effectiveness of the treatment. While the treatment must be repeated every few hours for continual pain management, there are portable devices to make this more convenient for the patient. Portable TENS units should be lightweight and easy to carry. In many cases they can be worn next to the skin. If this is the case, the units need to either be battery operated or rechargeable.

Pain easement in almost any part of the body can come from using a TENS unit. There are certain body parts where a physician should supervise the use of the unit in order to prevent injury. In cases of pain in the neck and head, the patient should first consult with his physician. The doctor might even have a unit for the patient to use in his office. In any case, patients should never use a TENS or portable TENS unit on their face, head, or neck without discussing it with a physician. All of the nerves in your body converge on the brain in your head. Many nerves that control the heart and other vital body operations run through the head, and without a doctor’s supervision, the patient might stimulate the wrong nerve, which could lead to injury. Additionally, patients who are equipped with pace makers should not use electrical nerve stimulation since the charge could interfere with the pace maker’s operation. Those who are pregnant, nursing, have diabetes, metallic body part replacements or plates, have heart conditions or high blood pressure should talk to their physician before using electrical stimulation of the nerves.

TENS units are not a permanent solution for chronic pain and may result in gradually decreasing benefits when used over a prolonged period of time. TENS units may also mask the pain while having minimum impact of the treatment of the injury. TENS units are not recommended as a substitute for regimented physical rehabilitation therapy programs, but may be used in parallel with physical therapy. Most stationary TENS or portable TENS units require a doctor’s prescription. Since settings and options vary from unit to unit, always consult with a doctor or a chiropractor about the proper use of your TENS unit.

Source: add-articles.com

There are many ways to deal with the pain of giving birth, but women and their obstetricians can always benefit from having another choice. A Cochrane review has concluded that women in labor should have the option of using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) a non-drug method of pain management.

“There is only limited evidence that TENS reduces pain in labor and it does not seem to have any negative or positive impact on other outcomes for mothers and babies. However the majority of women in the reported studies have indicated that they would be willing to use TENS for a subsequent pregnancy,” said Tina Lavender, a review co-author and a professor of midwifery at the University of Manchester, in England.

Widely used in other areas of medicine, the TENS unit is a small device that emits low- voltage electrical pulses through electrodes attached to the body. The exact way the pulses work is unknown, but they are thought to block pain transmission by stimulating nerve pathways in the spinal cord. During labor, clinicians usually place the electrodes on the lower back, but they can also attach them at acupuncture points or to the head.

For the review, researchers analyzed 19 randomized controlled studies that examined the use of TENS during labor. The studies involved 1,671 women and occurred in 11 countries, with three studies in the United States. Fifteen studies examined TENS applied to the back, two to acupuncture points and two to the head. Studies compared TENS use to routine care, to the use of a sham TENS unit or to other types of pain management, either medications or other techniques.

Women in labor who received TENS were less likely to say they had severe pain compared to the other women. However, this difference was not great and was not consistent across the studies, nor did the studies show that women receiving TENS were more satisfied with their pain relief than those who did not use TENS.

The new review appears in the latest issue of The Cochrane Library, a publication of The Cochrane Collaboration, an international organization that evaluates medical research. Systematic reviews like this one draw evidence-based conclusions about medical practice after considering both the content and quality of existing medical trials on a topic.

Lavender and her colleagues noted that it is possible that using TENS gave the women a feeling of control over their pain and served as a distraction. They concluded that women should have the option of using it during labor, with or without other forms of pain management.

No one has data on how widespread the use of TENS in obstetrics is, Lavender said, noting that one British study found that about 16 percent of low-risk women having their first baby used TENS during their labor. Generally, TENS works with other forms of pain management during labor, such as epidural anesthetics.

“TENS is not widely used in the U.S., largely because the pain relief offered is modest and TENS units are not frequently available on labor and delivery units,” said Laura Goetzl, M.D., an associate professor of obstetrics and oncology at the Medical University of South Carolina, in Charleston.

“There is no barrier to patients arranging for a TENS unit for themselves and using it in labor; however, the cost to the patient may not be worth the benefit over other treatments that are more likely to be covered by her insurance,” she said. Obstetricians usually support any method of pain relief a woman wants to use as long as it is not harmful to the mother or her baby and as long as it does not conflict with the policies of the admitting hospital, Goetzl said.

TENS units are not expensive, about 30 British pounds to rent and 50 pounds to buy in the United Kingdom, according to Lavender, and about $50 to $80 to rent for a week in the United States, according to an Internet search.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com

If you are looking for a way to reduce the pain you feel from a sports injury when you are working out, consider investing in a TENS unit. These devices can help you control your pain so that you can get the most out of your workout. TENS units are widely used in the physical therapy field to help patients control their pain while they rehabilitate their muscles. With the proper training, you can benefit from this same technology at home or at your favorite gym.
What Is a TENS Unit?
TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. A TENS unit uses electrical shocks to block pain signals that are being sent to the brain. It can also stimulate the body to create endorphins, which can increase the body’s ability to perform physical exercise.
How TENS Units Work
TENS units come with small electrode pads that already have gel on them. These are placed on the area that is experiencing pain. The small electrical shock delivered by the device will trigger the nerves in the area. Most users will feel a tingling sensation when they turn the device on. This can block the signal of pain to the brain when used at high dosages. Lower dosages are what trigger endorphin creation.
Who Can Use TENS Units?
Anyone can use a TENS unit with the proper training. However, since these do involve the use of electrical current, you should not use them without medical oversight. If you are recovering from a sports related injury, however, consider asking your physical therapist if you can be trained to use a TENS unit as you return to your sports training program. The device is going to be the most effective for athletes who are suffering from pain due to nerve damage. The common aches and pains that come from a rigorous workout are not what this device is intended to help.
Some people should not use a TENS unit, however. Children should not use the device, as its safety on growing bodies has not yet been tested. Any people with pacemakers or other similar electrical devices inside their bodies should never use a TENS unit. It can interfere with the proper functioning of the device, which can be life threatening.
Safety Concerns When Using a TENS Unit
TENS units are considered safe when used properly. However, there are certain places on the body where they should not be used. The electrodes should never be placed near the eyes or mouth. They also should not be placed on the temples. In fact, it is best not to use them on the face at all, as they could easily be placed too close to one of these sensitive areas.
The front of the neck is another place that the device should not be used. If you have any open wounds, do not put the electrode on them. Never place the device over the belly of a pregnant woman. In fact, pregnant women should not use a TENS device without first consulting with their obstetrician.
Once you have been trained by your doctor or physical therapist as to the best way to use the TENS device in your training program, make sure you resist the temptation to turn the frequency up too high. Remember, there is a limit to the pain relief you can experience with at TENS unit. Putting the frequency too high will actually cause you to have more pain. If you notice your muscles contracting near the electrodes, it is set too high. Otherwise, as long as you are properly trained and have followed these safety rules, you can use a TENS unit to reduce the pain from a past injury as you continue your workout routine.

Source: ezinearticles.com

An ultrasound machine uses high frequency sound waves and their resulting echoes to help determine the size, shape and depth of an abnormality. It allow various organs in the body to be examined right in the doctor’s office or clinic.
A basic ultrasound machine has the following parts:

* The Display - it is the most recognizable part of any unit. As the operator manipulates the transducer probe (we’ll talk about that next), it send out and receives data that is processed by the CPU and it’s software. That data is translated into visual information that displayed on the monitor or display. The clarity of the images depends on the age and resolution of the display.
* Transducer Probe - The probe is the eyes and ears of the ultrasound. The probe sends sound waves into the patient and receives the reflected vibrations. As the vibrations travel into the patient, they bounce back at different intervals depending on what the bounce off of. The transducer probe collects this information and moves it along to the CPU.
* Central Processing Unit (CPU) - The CPU is a computer that uses specialized software that interprets the sound waves that are returned to the transducer probe. It translated the data into an image or a series of images, allowing doctors and technicians to view the affected body part or parts.
* The Keyboard - Since it is a specialized computer, ultrasound machines have a keyboard much like a regular computer. It allows the operator to enter patient information or particular findings during the procedure.
* Hard Drive Storage - Like a regular computer, an ultrasound is capable of storing information for later retrieval. The information can be stored on the internal hard drive or on a CD or a DVD. the information can also be stored digitally and uploaded to the internet, so that it can be accessed from the office or anywhere you have an Internet connection.
* Printer - During the ultrasound procedure, the operator can print images for later study or that can be taken home by the patient, usually by expecting parents.
* Video Recorder - some ultrasound have the capability to record the procedure as it happens. This type of  recorder is specifically designed for medical applications. Its digital frame memory provides a noiseless, crystal clear “freeze” and is fully compatible with other S-VHS (or VHS) tape recordings. Like the printer, it allows expecting parents to take home a record of the development of their child.
Depending on the make and model of the ultrasound, there may be additional parts or options. Some suppliers offer options, like an endovaginal and endorectal transducers, that offer higher resolution than that of a traditional abdominal transducer. Because they can produce a scan close to the affected area, they can produce more accurate results. More features have been added to smaller, portable ultrasound machines, making them a versatile, powerful, lower-cost alternative for many doctors and clinics.
We should also mention the most important part of an ultrasound machine: the operator or sonographer. Sonographers are medical professionals who perform ultrasonic scans for diagnostic purposes. At times, the doctor and the sonographer are one in the same. The accuracy of the ultrasound exam and it’s results are dependent on the operator’s education, training, skill and experience. The more accurate the information from the exam, the more accurate the doctor’s diagnosis can be. The best ultrasound equipment that money can buy isn’t of much use unless you have the best qualified people operating it.
Do you have questions about a part of your ultrasound machine? Wave Imaging Solutions is a great place to turn to for questions and answers.
We are an OEM certified remanufacturer of used ultrasound equipment with cross-trained service professionals that are certified in multi-vendor capacities.
By adding the value of EOM Certification to our used ultrasound machines, our clients benefits from a very dependable ultrasound machine at a fraction of the price of a new one.

Source: ezinearticles.com

Do you use TENS units in your healthcare practice?
If not, I advise you to research the eye opening results of TENS units’ effectiveness in pain relief for many conditions ranging from back pain to arthritis. The physical effects of the electrical stimulation, coupled with the psychological effects of the patient having control over their pain, can take months off of recovery time producing a happy patient likely to refer you to others.
If you already use TENS in your practice you will know how effective they can be. However, health care providers can only advise a patient how to take a course of medicine, how and when to use physiotherapy equipment or do certain stretches etc and how to use a TENS unit. There is no saying as to whether their guidelines are followed; you have only their word to trust, and anyone who has been a patient knows, it sometimes feels better to expand the truth to not appear negatively in front of your practitioner.
A ‘Profile’ TENS unit is a patient’s AND health professional’s dream. It has all the features and more of the other TENS units for a highly effective treatment: it can treat two areas of pain, has 50 options of pulse rate, 10 options of pulse width and a timer with 7 selectable settings. It boasts 5 different ‘modes’ which are pre-programmed treatments including different pulse rates, widths and bursts. Its digital interface makes it smoother to use and clearer to read and it has an anti-shock system preventing harm from an accidental drop.
However, where it REALLY rises above other TENS units is in its area of ‘professional’ functions beneficial to the healthcare provider. Professional Function 1 records how long the unit is used for. It boasts a 99 hour memory of usage for the health professional to be able to see exactly what the patient has done since the last meeting. Professional Function 2 memorizes how many times the unit is used and Professional Function 3 locks the device at a particular setting required by the health professional so the patient only has to hit ‘play’. Combine these professional functions and you have a highly useful, effective complimentary treatment that works for both patient and healthcare provider.

Source: buzzle.com

Electronic muscle stimulation is a technique that is widely used by elite athletes all over the world. It has been shown to be effective and successful toward toning and building muscle mass. This is why devices have been developed to accomplish this type of workout.
The way it works is fairly straight forward. The electrical impulses control the muscles via the motor nerves. Programming these impulses allows users to target their workouts for power, endurance, or resistance. Here, powerful contractions can be received without the pain of a traditional workout.
A microprocessor controls the work of the muscles, while adhering to the principles of traditional training physiology. Not only does electrical muscle stimulation help build muscles, but it also encompasses the toning and shaping that improves overall physical fitness. While it is not meant to take the place of a traditional workout, it can help supplement it and add to the benefits it can offer. It can also be a viable means of exercise for those who are unable to participate in the more traditional methods of exercise due to health problems or joint and muscle restrictions. It is advisable to consult a doctor before using an electronic muscle stimulation machine if this is the case.
Electronic muscle stimulation is effective for fitness training, as well as for muscle rehabilitation. It helps build endurance so that the muscles may be used for a longer period of time. The resistance it also provides, will assist in expanding the range of muscle movement and help to promote strength. The recovery process is also shortened by this method, as the patient is able to exercise in a non-restricted environment without too much strain or tension being place on the body.
This type of equipment has been successfully used in the physical therapy and sports medicine fields for many years, and has nothing to do with the various other pieces of exercise equipment that are commonly found on the market. As with any other workout, there are stages that must be accomplished in order to reap the full benefits of this type of program. Many machines also come with DVD-based training material that is designed to walk the user through the various steps involved in the process. Here, users will also be able to create an individualized training program that will best fit their individual needs. Before trying electronic muscle stimulation, it is advisable to check with a physician to make sure this is right for you.

Source: ezinearticles.com

Cherry Hill, NJ (WiredPRNews.com) –  The “LG-8TM” 8 Electrode TENS Muscle Stimulator Combo Unit offers patients a Stronger 100mA then any other 8 Electrode Portable Unit on the market.

It is very similar to LGMedSupply’s top seller, the LG-TEC Dual Combo Unit. The main difference between the LG-TEC Dual Combo and the LG-8TM Dual Combo is is that the LG-8TM is a 4 Channel, 8 Electrode TENS / Muscle Stimulator Machine has 8 Electrode Pads instead of four, providing patients with better and more coverage. The LG-8TM 5 Adjustable Modes of TENS, and 3 Modes of Muscle Stimulation. The LG-8TM 8 Electrode Combo Unit also comes with an AC Power Supply so patients can now use at home or travel.

The LG-8TM 8 Electrode TENS / Muscle Stimulator has a long battery life and uses 4 AA Batteries. The LG-8TM is very portable as well and comes with a sturdy metal belt clip. It also comes with a Timer and Patient Compliance Meter. The LG-8TM weighs only 425 grams.

The LG-8TM 8 Electrode Combo Unit consists of 2 Great Synergistic Patient Therapies in One:

1. A TENS Unit to Reduce and Eliminate Pain

2. A Muscle Stimulator to Stimulate, Re-educate, Massage, and Build Muscle.

The LG-8TM will help patients relieve pain effectively, as well as build, re-educate muscle, and increase blood circulation.

How it works: The LG-8TM is a battery operated pulse generator that sends electrical impulses electrodes to the body and reach the nerves and underlying muscle group. The device is provided with two controllable output channels, each independent of each other. The intensity controls are protected by a cap to avoid accidental touch. The settings are controlled by push buttons.

LGMedSupply (www.LGMedSupply.com)
PO Box 913
Cherry Hill, NJ 08003

Tags: back pain, electrical impulses, electrode pads, Health, Health News, lgmedsupply, muscle pain, muscle stimulator muscle building, muscle toning, pain, pain relief, portable tens machine, pulse generator, tens machine, tens unit