Which One Should You Use? Between TENS and EMS, your own needs shall greatly determine which you prefer:
For pain relief, especially in chronic conditions such as arthritis, the answer is TENS. TENS provides relief by blocking pain signals and increasing endorphin production that will not cause muscle contractions. If your pain has significantly interfered with your activities, then you may consider TENS as part of a pain management routine.
EMS is quite well suited for muscle recovery or strengthening, especially when an athlete or rehabilitation patient needs that. EMS has the effect of strengthening the muscle, toning, and helping in recovery after physical exertion. It also readily prevents muscle atrophy, so it's a helpful tool during the rehabilitation process due to injury. Combining TENS and EMS Both TENS and EMS can simultaneously be applied to treat an entire treatment course. Patients who have just gone through surgery may need to have TENS applied to discourage further pain, meanwhile EMS is implemented to rebuild muscles that have become weakened due to inactivity. All these create a single course of rehabilitation for pain reduction and muscle rebuild. Safety Considerations Both TENS and EMS are generally safe if used appropriately. There are, however, some specific safety precautions:
For pain relief, especially in chronic conditions such as arthritis, the answer is TENS. TENS provides relief by blocking pain signals and increasing endorphin production that will not cause muscle contractions. If your pain has significantly interfered with your activities, then you may consider TENS as part of a pain management routine.
EMS is quite well suited for muscle recovery or strengthening, especially when an athlete or rehabilitation patient needs that. EMS has the effect of strengthening the muscle, toning, and helping in recovery after physical exertion. It also readily prevents muscle atrophy, so it's a helpful tool during the rehabilitation process due to injury. Combining TENS and EMS Both TENS and EMS can simultaneously be applied to treat an entire treatment course. Patients who have just gone through surgery may need to have TENS applied to discourage further pain, meanwhile EMS is implemented to rebuild muscles that have become weakened due to inactivity. All these create a single course of rehabilitation for pain reduction and muscle rebuild. Safety Considerations Both TENS and EMS are generally safe if used appropriately. There are, however, some specific safety precautions:
- Seek the advice of a medical professional: Before starting TENS or EMS treatment, especially if you have an illness such as heart disease, epilepsy, or if you are pregnant.
- Avoid placing electrodes on sensitive parts: Do not place electrodes near the eyes, the temples, the chest, nor on broken skin.
- Pacemakers: Patients with pacemakers or other implanted electronic devices should not use TENS or EMS without medical supervision.
Perhaps you have been experiencing chronic pain, or maybe you wish to gain muscle strength back. Both options do not include surgery nor the use of chemicals. TENS can be used with pain relief as its key goal, this will directly address the nerve ends. EMS has the focus to cause muscle contractions, building stronger muscles. It is dependent upon your needs or what exactly you need it for; pain relief or recovering the muscles.
TENS and EMS devices at Medilab India: we have a wide range of units that can meet your needs. Click through our catalog to see more, or contact us for recommendations on the right one for you!