Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) units are non-invasive devices often used for pain management. Plantar fasciitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the thick band of tissue, the plantar fascia, that runs across the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. This article explores how TENS units may offer relief from plantar fasciitis.
How TENS Units Address Plantar Fasciitis Pain
A TENS unit delivers low-voltage electrical impulses through skin electrodes. These impulses interact with the nervous system to reduce pain perception. One way this occurs is through the “pain gate theory,” where electrical signals stimulate non-pain-carrying nerve fibers, blocking pain signals traveling to the brain.
TENS stimulation also encourages the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins reduce pain sensation and promote well-being. For plantar fasciitis, this dual action of interfering with pain signals and releasing natural pain blockers alleviates the sharp, stabbing pain often felt in the heel or arch of the foot.
Proper Application for Plantar Fasciitis Relief
Effective TENS for plantar fasciitis involves precise electrode placement. Electrodes are typically placed directly on the painful areas, such as the heel, arch of the foot, or along the plantar fascia, usually with one electrode proximal and one distal to the pain site. Some users find relief by placing electrodes on either side of the heel or one on the heel and another on the ball of the foot.
Recommended settings often include a high frequency (around 80-120 Hz) for acute pain, which primarily targets the pain gate mechanism, and a lower frequency (2-10 Hz) for more chronic pain or to stimulate endorphin release. The pulse width usually ranges from 50-250 microseconds. Intensity should be adjusted until a strong, comfortable tingling sensation is felt, without causing muscle contraction or discomfort.
Typical session durations range from 20 to 60 minutes, and sessions can be repeated several times a day for pain relief. Always consult a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or doctor, before starting TENS therapy to determine the most appropriate settings and placement. Avoiding placement over open wounds, irritated skin, or directly over joints where electrodes may not adhere well.
What to Expect from TENS Therapy
TENS therapy primarily serves as a pain management tool for plantar fasciitis, not a cure for underlying tissue damage. Many experience a reduction in pain during or immediately after a TENS session, often within 15 to 30 minutes. This relief is typically temporary, lasting a few hours after the device is turned off.
The effectiveness of TENS can vary significantly; some may find substantial relief, while others experience minimal benefit. TENS units are generally a complementary part of a broader treatment strategy for plantar fasciitis. Certain conditions, such as pregnancy, a pacemaker, or epilepsy, are contraindications for TENS use, and medical advice should always be sought beforehand.
Complementary Therapies for Plantar Fasciitis
Managing plantar fasciitis often involves a multifaceted approach beyond TENS therapy. Regular stretching exercises targeting the calf muscles and plantar fascia are frequently recommended to improve flexibility and reduce tension. Icing the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can decrease inflammation and pain.
Wearing supportive footwear with adequate arch support and cushioning reduces stress on the plantar fascia. Custom or over-the-counter orthotics can provide additional support and correct biomechanical imbalances. Rest, particularly avoiding pain-aggravating activities, allows the inflamed tissue to heal. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, may also manage pain and inflammation.