A Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) unit is a compact, battery-powered device that delivers mild electrical currents through electrodes placed on the skin. This non-invasive, drug-free method helps manage localized pain, including foot discomfort, by alleviating soreness and improving comfort.
Understanding TENS for Foot Discomfort
TENS units alleviate pain through a dual mechanism. Electrical impulses stimulate nerve cells, blocking pain signals from reaching the brain. These currents also encourage the body to release natural pain-relieving chemicals called endorphins. This combination of nerve signal modulation and natural painkiller release provides relief.
TENS therapy can address various forms of foot discomfort. This includes general soreness, plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes), neuropathy (nerve damage), and arch pain. Other common issues like metatarsalgia, Morton’s neuroma, tendinitis, heel spurs, gout, and bunions may also respond to TENS.
Applying TENS to the Feet
Proper preparation of the skin is important before applying TENS unit electrodes. The skin where the electrodes will be placed should be thoroughly cleaned and dried to ensure good contact and minimize irritation. It is also advisable to check the TENS unit’s battery and confirm that the adhesive electrodes are in good condition.
Electrode placement is important for effective pain relief in the feet. Generally, electrodes should be positioned around the perimeter of the painful area, ensuring they do not touch each other.
For plantar fasciitis, pads can be placed on the bottom of the foot near the affected region, or one pad on the bottom and another on top, about an inch apart. If pain is centralized, one pad can be placed directly on the painful spot, with the other positioned either in front of or behind it, maintaining at least a pad’s width of separation.
For heel pain or Achilles tendinitis, electrodes can be placed along the sides and back of the heel. For widespread foot pain, or pain that extends into the leg, placing pads on both the foot and calf muscles can address a larger area. The most effective placement often involves some experimentation to find where relief is maximized.
Once the electrodes are securely in place, the unit can be turned on. Begin by setting the intensity to the lowest level and gradually increasing it until a strong but comfortable tingling sensation is felt.
TENS units typically offer adjustable settings for frequency (Hertz/Hz) and pulse width (microseconds/µs). High-frequency settings (80-120 Hz) are often used for acute pain, while lower frequencies (1-20 Hz) may be more suitable for chronic pain.
Pulse width refers to the duration of each electrical pulse; a higher pulse width generally results in a more intense stimulation. Some units also offer different modes, such as normal (constant stimulation), burst (delivering bursts of pulses), or modulation (varying frequency and pulse width to prevent nerve adaptation).
Typical session lengths for TENS therapy on the feet range from 20 to 30 minutes. Some sources suggest sessions between 15 to 60 minutes, with the possibility of multiple sessions per day, such as three to four times daily, depending on the severity of pain. For chronic pain, using the unit for at least 30 minutes while active may be beneficial.
Safe Use and Precautions
While TENS therapy is generally considered safe, certain precautions and contraindications are important. Individuals with implanted electronic devices, such as pacemakers or defibrillators, should not use a TENS unit, as the electrical currents can interfere with their function. Pregnant women should also avoid using TENS, particularly over the abdominal and pelvic regions, unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional. People with epilepsy or certain heart conditions should consult their doctor before using TENS.
It is important to avoid placing electrodes over open wounds, damaged skin, numb areas, or infected tissues. The front or sides of the neck, eyes, mouth, or directly on the head are also areas where electrodes should not be placed. Skin irritation, redness, or itching can occur, often due to the adhesive on the pads or prolonged contact. If such reactions occur, remove the electrodes and allow the skin to recover, possibly switching to hypoallergenic pads.
Using a TENS unit while driving or operating heavy machinery is not recommended due to the potential for distraction. If pain worsens, no relief is experienced, or if there are any underlying medical conditions, consulting a healthcare professional is important. A doctor can help determine if TENS is appropriate and guide its safe and effective use.