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The Use Of TENS And EMS For Pain
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a method of pain relief involving the use of a mild electrical current. A TENS machine is a small, battery-operated device that has leads connected to sticky pads called electrodes. You attach the pads directly to your skin. When the machine is switched on, small electrical impulses are delivered to the affected area of your body, which you feel as a tingling sensation. The electrical impulses can reduce the pain signals going to the spinal cord and brain, which may help relieve pain and relax muscles. They may also stimulate the production of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers. What TENS is used for TENS may be able to help reduce pain and muscle spasms caused by a wide range of conditions including: arthritis period pain pelvic pain caused by endometriosis knee pain neck pain back pain sports injuries It's also sometimes used as a method of pain relief during labour. What is TENS There isn't enough good-quality scientific evidence to say for sure whether TENS is a reliable method of pain relief. More research is needed and clinical trials for TENS are ongoing. Healthcare professionals have reported that it seems to help some people, although how well it works depends on the individual and the condition being treated. TENS isn't a cure for pain and often only provides short-term relief while the TENS machine is being used. However, the treatment is generally very safe and you may feel it's worth trying instead of, or in addition to, the usual medical treatments. Trying TENS If you're thinking about trying TENS, it's a good idea to speak to your GP about a referral to a physiotherapist or pain clinic. A physiotherapist or pain specialist may be able to loan you a TENS machine for a short period if they think it could help. You can choose to buy your own TENS machine without getting medical advice, but it's generally better to have a proper assessment first, so you can find out whether a TENS machine is appropriate for you and be taught how to use it properly. To get the most benefit from TENS, it's important that the settings are adjusted correctly for you and your individual condition. If you find TENS effective, you can buy a TENS machine from a pharmacy. They range in price from about £10 to £200. More expensive machines aren't necessarily any better than lower-priced ones, so it's best to do some research before you buy. How to use TENS The information below is a general guide on how to use a TENS machine. You should always follow the manufacturer's specific instructions. TENS machines are small and lightweight, so you can use them while you're working or on the move. You can put it in your pocket, clip it to your belt or hold it in your hand. You can use TENS throughout the day for as long as you like, although it shouldn't be used while you're driving, operating machinery, or in the bath or shower. Positioning the pads Make sure the machine is switched off before you attach the pads to your skin. Position the pads either side of the painful area, at least 2.5cm (1 inch) apart. Never place the pads over: the front or sides of your neck your temples your mouth or eyes your chest and upper back at the same time irritated, infected or broken skin varicose veins numb areas Turning it on and adjusting the strength Turn on the TENS machine when the pads are attached in the correct places. You'll feel a slight tingling sensation pass through your skin. The machine has a dial that allows you to control the strength of the electrical impulses. Start on a low setting and gradually increase it until the sensation feels strong but comfortable. If the tingling sensation starts to feel painful or uncomfortable, reduce it slightly. Switch the TENS machine off after you've finished using it and remove the electrodes from your skin. Are there any risks of side effects? For most people, TENS is a safe treatment with no side effects. Some people may be allergic to the pads and their skin may become red and irritated, but special pads for people with allergies are available. TENS isn't safe for everyone to use. Don't use it without first seeking medical advice if: you have a pacemaker or another type of electrical or metal implant in your body you're pregnant, or there's a chance you might be pregnant – TENS may not be recommended early in pregnancy you have epilepsy or a heart problem Shop our Circulation Range Here Source: NHS
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Health Benefits Of Passive Exercise
Range of motion exercises is defined as those that offer three types of movement, according to Merck Manual Online Medical Library. Active exercise is that which an individual does for himself, while an active assisted range of motion is achieved with the help of a therapist or individual who aids the person in the movement. Passive range of motion is exercise performed on an individual by another person, therapist or nurse. Passive range of motion exercises offers a variety of benefits for those unable to exercise for themselves. Muscle Strength Passive range of motion exercise helps prevent weak muscles or stiffness caused by non-use. When muscles aren't used and exercised on a regular basis, they become weak and unable to support joint function and range of motion. As the person or body part being exercised grows stronger, different forms of resistance may be used to help provide additional strengthening benefits, such as through resistance bands, pressure from the therapist or weights, according to the Merck Manual Online Medical Library. Improve Circulation Anyone who is required to spend a lot of time in a wheelchair or on bed rest may benefit from passive range of motion exercises that help increase and improve circulation by keeping joints and muscles functioning and healthy, according to Family Friendly Fun, a website devoted to family fun and health and dealing with special needs and disability support. Passive range of motion exercise helps prevent blood from pooling in the extremities or the lower torso, which may lead to skin breakdown known as decubitus ulcers or bedsores. Passive range of motion exercises also help promote increased cardiac capacity, which helps pump oxygen-rich blood to all cells and tissues in the body. Maintain Flexibility Without regular movement , the joints in the body become stiff and unbending. In some who are unable to move, such as those who have been paralyzed, muscle atrophy and contractions may occur, which literally waste away muscle tissue and cause the limbs to curl inward toward the center of the body. This can be extremely painful. Passive range of motion helps prevent joints from stiffening and helps increase joint health by keeping joints lubricated and flexible, according to Drugs.com. Reduce Pain Exercising the joint helps keep them limber, which reduces pain caused by stiffness. Individuals who cannot move on their own or do not have the strength to do so may benefit from passive range of motion exercise that prevents contractures, according to the ALS-MDA News Magazine, sponsored by the MDA ALS Division. (The abbreviations stand for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and muscular dystrophy, respectively.) Contractures are caused by atrophy and shortening of muscles or joints that are not used, resulting in painful deformities. Click the image below for our best-selling passive exerciser...
Home Remedies For Skin Tags
Tea tree oil and skin tags Tea tree oil is an essential oil derived from the leaves of the Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). Although no scientific research has been done on the use of tea tree oil for skin tags, anecdotal reports suggest that it works. People claim that tea tree oil dehydrates skin tags, causing them to dry up and fall off. Skin tags are painless, flesh-coloured growths that hang off the skin. They’re very common, affecting up to half the population. Skin tags are harmless, but they can be unsightly and uncomfortable when they grow in delicate locations such as the eyelids, groin, and armpits. Tea tree oil has been used for thousands of years by the aboriginal people of Australia. They rely on their antiseptic power to help treat wounds and fight off infections. Today, tea tree oil is primarily used to treat athlete’s foot, acne, and fungal infections. Due to its fresh scent, tea tree oil is a common ingredient in beauty products, such as soaps, shampoos, and moisturisers. You can find pure tea tree oil anywhere essential oils are found. Keep reading to learn more about this alternative treatment and how you can try using it at home to get rid of your skin tags. Effectiveness of tea tree oil for skin tags There’s no scientific evidence to support claims that tea tree oil works for skin tags, but there are theories to support its use. Dehydrating effects StudiesTrusted Source show that tea tree oil is an effective treatment for acne. It works because it kills bacteria and helps dry up pimples. It’s possible that tea tree oil could also help dry up skin tags. Dermatologists often treat skin tags by tying a suture around the base of the tag. This cuts off the skin tag’s blood supply, causing it to dry up and fall off. Tea tree oil could be an alternative to this procedure, but you may be better off tying a piece of dental floss around the base of your tag. Other health benefits of tea tree oil: Antiviral Tea tree oil has powerful antiviral properties. StudiesTrusted Source have shown that tea tree oil can help prevent the spread of flu and other viruses. Immune boosting StudiesTrusted Source shows that tea tree oil activates the immune system’s white blood cells. This may help the body fight of infections. Antimicrobial Tea tree oil has been used as an antiseptic solution for centuries. StudiesTrusted Source shows that adding it to soap helps kill viruses and bacteria. It can also help clean wounds and prevent infections. Antifungal StudiesTrusted Source shows that tea tree oil works to kill the infection-causing fungus. People commonly use it to treat athlete’s foot and nail fungus. It can also be used to treat yeast infections and oral thrush, both of which are caused by Candida yeasts. How to use tea tree oil on skin tags Tea tree oil can be used in many different ways. Here are a few examples of how you can use tea tree oil on your skin tags: Tea tree oil compress Use a tea tree oil solution: Soak a cotton ball in tea tree oil. Use a bandage or a piece of tape to secure the cotton ball to your skin tag. Let it sit overnight. Repeat nightly until the skin tag falls off. Discontinue if you experience irritation. Vinegar mix Use a combination of 100 percent tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar: Soak a cotton ball in the apple cider vinegar. Add a few drops of tea tree oil. Use tape to secure the cotton ball to your skin tag. Leave in place for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse the area with soap and water. Repeat up to three times per day. Never use this vinegar mix near your eyes. Diluted tea tree oil Tea tree essential oil can be very harsh and may cause skin irritation. Instead of using pure tea tree oil, try diluting it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil: Mix 1 tablespoon of carrier oil with 3 to 4 drops of tea tree oil. Apply the mixture to your skin tag at least twice per day until it falls off. Add 3 to 4 drops of tea tree oil to 1 cup of clean water. Add 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Put the mixture in the microwave for about 1 minute. Soak a clean cloth or paper towel in the solution and then hold it on your skin tag for 5 to 10 minutes. Repeat 2 to 3 times per day until your tag falls off. Tea tree oil salt soak Tea tree oils come in many strengths and some are already diluted. Read the labels carefully — 100 percent tea tree oil can be very irritating to the skin. Don’t take tea tree oil internally. Side effects and risks Some people experience mild skin reactions when applying tea tree oil to their skin. Before using it to treat your skin tag, perform a patch test: Place a small amount of tea tree oil on your arm. Wait 24 to 48 hours. Watch for any adverse reactions. If you experience a reaction, don’t use tea tree oil.Never ingest tea tree oil, it’s toxic. Drinking it can cause a serious reaction, including confusion and loss of muscle coordination. Don’t use tea tree oil near your eyes. When to see your doctor If your skin tag isn’t going away on its own after a few weeks of treatment, consider talking to a doctor. Doctors have several effective methods that can be completed quickly and easily during an office visit. Your doctor may choose to snip your skin tag off with sterile scissors, remove it with a scalpel, or tie a suture around the base. The takeaway Tea tree oil has many medicinal uses, but treating skin tags isn’t a traditional one. There may be better methods available to you for removing a skin tag. Talk to your doctor about in-office procedures to remove skin tags. Skin Tag Remover Oil Shop Now Skin Tag Removal Patches Shop Now Source: NCBI
