TENS MACHINE FORE-CARE SE-33

Fore-Care SE-33 TENS machine - an Alternative Form of Pain Relief

Fore-Care SE-33 TENS Machine. TENS is short for 'Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation'. TENS is a form of pain relief, by which small electric pulses are passed into the body by means of pads.

Fore-Care TENS Machine - SE-33 Product Features:

- Four different stimulation modes, with complex stimulation signals.
- Compact and portable.
- Relieves pain and tension on various muscles.
- 15 and 30 minute timer.
- Soft start stimulation.
- 3 year limited warranty.
- Easy operation with LCD display.
- 2 x One touch adhesive contact pads

TENS - Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

For a number of reasons, pain-killing medication may not always be suitable for patients. Another option for providing pain relief is a TENS machine. TENS machines deliver small electrical pulses to the body, via electrodes placed on the skin. Using a TENS machine is believed to help ease pain. The research into TENS machines does not strongly support the use of TENS machines or provide concrete evidence for their effectiveness; however TENS machines are a popular form of pain relief with people who suffer chronic pain, and their popularity would perhaps suggest that they can be an effective form of pain relief.

TENS machines are a popular option for people who suffer pain, especially persistent (chronic) pain. TENS machines deliver small electrical pulses to the body via electrodes placed on the skin. TENS machines are thought to affect the way pain signals are sent to the brain - when the TENS machine is set on a high pulse rate (90-130 Hz) it blocks a pain nerve pathway to the brain. Alternatively the machine can be set on a low pulse rate (2-5 Hz) - to stimulate the body into making its own pain easing chemicals (endorphins). These block pain signals.

TENS machines are mainly used to help reduce pain from problems in muscles, joints and nerves (rather than abdominal, chest or head pains). Unlike most other forms of medication, there are virtually no side-effects when using a TENS machine. However, people with the following must not use a TENS machine:

- When the cause of the pain is not known or not diagnosed.
- When pregnant (unless specifically medically advised).
- When fitted with a pacemaker.
- When you suffer from epilepsy or certain types of heart disease.

Gordons Chemists recommend that you use a TENS machine only on the advice of a doctor or other health professional. TENS machines are not suitable for all types of pain or all conditions. You should always follow the manufacturer's instructions supplied with your TENS machine.

You may also find the following general points helpful:

- TENS machines are designed so that you can move around with them working. You can tuck the machine in a pocket or clip it onto a belt.
- Before placing the electrode pads on the skin, make sure the machine is switched off.
- Test the TENS machine by holding the pads between the fingers and then carefully turn it on. You should feel a tingling sensation.
- Make sure that the skin where the pads are applied is clean and dry, and there are no cuts, grazes or areas of skin irritation.
- Place the pads on either side of the pain. Use either self-adhesive pads or flexible rubber pads which should be completely covered on the surface to be applied to the skin, with a thin layer of conductive gel. The pads should not be put within an inch (2-3 cm) of each other. Your physiotherapist or doctor can show you where to put the pads.
- Fix the pads to the skin with tape if you intend moving around.
- Set the pulse rate to the required setting (about 100 Hz is about right to start with).
- Switch on the machine slowly and turn it up gradually until you feel a tingle sensation. The sensation needs to be quite strong but not uncomfortable. After a few minutes the sensation will start to drop away slightly. This is called 'accommodation'. When this happens, turn the machine up slightly and then leave it for the rest of the time in use. Do not turn it up too high as this can cause over-stimulation which may make pain worse. There should be no muscle contraction.
- At the end of the session turn the machine off, and disconnect the electrodes from the machine. If you intend using TENS again later there is no need to remove the electrode pads from the skin. Simply tuck the wires out of the way and carry on as normal.
- Check that the pads or tape do not irritate the skin. If the skin is red you may need to use a different type of pad, contact gel or tape.
- The machine should be used for at least 45 minutes, but can be used for up to 12 hours before the electrodes need to be cleaned and re-positioned.
- When you have finished using the TENS machine carefully remove the pads from the skin and clean the skin with ordinary soap and water. Do not pull directly on the wires to remove the pads. If there is any redness or irritation from the pads or tape, then the next time you use the TENS machine use a different area of skin.
- If you use rubber pads, clean off the conducting gel with mild soap and water and rinse them well. Do not wash the self-adhesive type of pad.

Precautions 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.

supplied.
- 2 x AAA Battery supplied.
- Long battery life: approx 2 months for 15 minutes per day.