TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machines have been used by humans for decades to help with pain relief and to aid recovery after injury or surgery. However, recently, they have also been introduced to veterinary medicine and are now being used for dogs. TENS machines work by using low-frequency electrical impulses to stimulate the nerves in the affected area. These impulses help to block pain signals from the affected area and can also help to reduce inflammation and improve circulation. When used correctly, TENS machines can be a safe and effective way to aid in the recovery of dogs. Benefits of using a TENS Machine There are several benefits to using TENS machines for dogs. One of the main benefits is pain relief. Dogs that are recovering from surgery or injury can experience a significant amount of pain. By using a TENS machine, pet owners can help to alleviate this pain without the need for medication, which can have unwanted side effects. Another benefit of using TENS machines for dogs is improved circulation. The electrical impulses generated by the machine can help to stimulate blood flow to the affected area, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. This can be particularly useful for dogs that are recovering from injuries or surgery, as it can help to speed up the healing process. TENS machines can also be used to help improve muscle function in dogs. By stimulating the nerves in the affected area, the muscles can be encouraged to contract and relax. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs that have suffered from muscle atrophy due to inactivity or injury. Using a TENS machine for dogs is relatively straightforward. The machine consists of a small handheld device that is attached to electrodes. These electrodes are placed on the skin over the affected area, and the machine is then turned on. The owner can then adjust the intensity of the electrical impulses, depending on the dog's tolerance. It is essential to note that TENS machines should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian. It is crucial to ensure that the machine is used correctly to avoid any potential harm to the dog. Additionally, TENS machines should not be used on dogs with pacemakers or any other medical condition that may be affected by electrical impulses. How to use a TENS Machine for dogs? 1. Consult with a veterinarian: Before using a TENS machine on your dog, it is essential to consult with your vet to determine whether it is suitable for your dog's specific condition. Your vet can also advise you on the appropriate settings and duration of treatment. 2. Prepare the dog: Ensure that your dog is comfortable and relaxed before using the TENS machine. You may need to restrain your dog gently to prevent them from moving around during the treatment. 3. Clean the area: Clean the area where the electrodes will be attached. Use a gentle soap and warm water to ensure that the skin is clean and free of any oils, dirt, or debris. In some cases, fur will need to be removed or shaved for proper adhesion of TENS Pads. Rubber electrode pads are also suitable and sometimes better suited. 4. Attach the electrodes: Apply the electrodes to the skin over the affected area. You can use adhesive patches or gel to hold the electrodes in place. Ensure that the electrodes are positioned correctly, and there is no loose wiring. 5. Turn on the machine: Once the electrodes are in place, turn on the TENS machine and adjust the intensity to the level recommended by your veterinarian. Start with the lowest setting and gradually increase the intensity until you reach a comfortable level for your dog. In conclusion, TENS machines can be a safe and effective way to aid in the recovery of dogs. They can help to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote healing. However, it is crucial to use these machines under the guidance of a veterinarian to ensure that they are used correctly and safely. With proper use, TENS machines can be a valuable tool in helping dogs recover from injury or surgery. Recommended Items:

Stroke, a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide, often leaves survivors grappling with impaired motor function and diminished quality of life. While traditional rehabilitation methods play a crucial role in stroke recovery, emerging technologies like Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) machines offer promising adjunctive therapies. In this exploration, we delve into the application of TENS machines in stroke rehabilitation, uncovering their benefits, mechanisms of action, and potential impact on recovery outcomes. Understanding Stroke and Rehabilitation: Stroke, characterized by sudden loss of blood flow to the brain, can result in a spectrum of impairments ranging from paralysis to cognitive deficits. Rehabilitation post-stroke aims to facilitate neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to rewire and adapt, thereby enhancing functional recovery. Traditional methods such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy form the cornerstone of stroke rehabilitation, but complementary approaches like TENS therapy are gaining recognition for their adjunctive benefits. What is a TENS Machine? A TENS machine is a portable, non-invasive device that delivers low-voltage electrical impulses to specific areas of the body via electrodes placed on the skin. Originally developed to alleviate pain, TENS machines have evolved to address a diverse array of conditions, including stroke rehabilitation. By modulating nerve activity and promoting muscle contraction, TENS therapy offers a novel avenue for enhancing motor recovery post-stroke. Benefits of TENS Therapy in Stroke Recovery: Pain Management: Many stroke survivors experience chronic pain, spasticity, and musculoskeletal discomfort, which can impede rehabilitation progress. TENS therapy offers effective pain relief by disrupting pain signals and stimulating the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. By alleviating pain, TENS machines enable stroke survivors to engage more fully in rehabilitative exercises, promoting functional gains. Muscle Re-Education: Following a stroke, muscle weakness and disuse can lead to muscle atrophy and loss of motor control. TENS/EMS therapy aids in muscle re-education by inducing muscle contractions through electrical stimulation. By targeting specific muscle groups, TENS/EMS machines facilitate neuromuscular activation, helping stroke survivors regain strength, coordination, and mobility. Improved Range of Motion: Contractures, or permanent shortening of muscles and tendons, commonly occur post-stroke due to spasticity and prolonged immobility. TENS therapy can mitigate contractures by promoting muscle relaxation and stretching. By applying TENS to affected muscles, therapists can enhance range of motion and joint flexibility, facilitating functional movements essential for daily activities. Neuroplasticity Enhancement: Neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections, underpins stroke recovery. TENS therapy may enhance neuroplasticity by modulating cortical excitability and promoting synaptic plasticity. Studies suggest that electrical stimulation can facilitate motor cortex activation, potentially accelerating motor recovery and functional restoration post-stroke. Sensory Stimulation: Sensory deficits, including loss of proprioception and tactile sensation, are common sequelae of stroke. TENS therapy can provide sensory stimulation to impaired limbs, enhancing sensory feedback and proprioceptive awareness. By integrating sensory input with motor training, TENS machines optimize motor learning and sensorimotor integration, facilitating more efficient movement patterns. Integrating TENS therapy into stroke rehabilitation protocols requires careful consideration of electrode placement, stimulation parameters, and patient tolerance. Therapists typically tailor TENS settings to individual patient needs, adjusting intensity, frequency, and duration to optimize therapeutic outcomes. Electrodes may be positioned over muscles affected by weakness or spasticity, along with corresponding nerve pathways implicated in motor control. Clinical Evidence and Future Directions: While the efficacy of TENS therapy in stroke rehabilitation is supported by empirical evidence, further research is warranted to elucidate optimal treatment protocols and long-term outcomes. Randomized controlled trials investigating the effectiveness of TENS machines in conjunction with standard rehabilitation protocols are needed to validate their role as adjunctive therapies. Moreover, advancements in wearable technology and neuroimaging techniques hold promise for personalized TENS interventions tailored to individual stroke profiles. How can tVNS using a TENS Machine aid in Stroke Recovery? Non-invasive, transcutaneous VNS (tVNS) via auricular vagus nerve stimulation in the ear (taVNS) and cervical vagus nerve stimulation in the neck (tcVNS) have been shown to activate similar vagal nerve projections in the central nervous system to invasive VNS. A number of pre-clinical studies indicate that tVNS delivered in acute middle cerebral artery occlusion reduces infarct size through anti-inflammatory effects, reduced excitotoxicity and increased blood-brain barrier integrity. Longer term effects of tVNS in stroke that may mediate neuroplasticity include microglial polarisation, angiogenesis and neurogenesis. Pilot clinical trials of taVNS indicate that taVNS paired with rehabilitation may improve upper limb motor and sensory function in patients with chronic stroke. Suggested TENS Machine Settings for tVNS: Mode: Normal Pulse Width: 200us Pulse Rate: 15-30us/step. Duration: 15 min/day for 2 weeks. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) machines represent a promising modality for enhancing stroke recovery by addressing pain, muscle dysfunction, and neuroplasticity. As part of a comprehensive rehabilitation approach, TENS therapy offers tangible benefits in pain management, muscle re-education, and functional restoration post-stroke. By harnessing the power of electrical stimulation, clinicians can optimize outcomes and improve quality of life for stroke survivors worldwide. Reference https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stroke https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6449801/

According to new research, electrically "tickling" the ear for over-55s using a TENS machine with tVNS clips appears to rebalance the autonomic nervous system, potentially slowing down the impacts of ageing. Researchers discovered that a brief daily therapy given for two weeks improved physiological and psychological well-being, including life quality, mood, and sleep. The procedure, known as transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS), involves administering a small, painless electrical current to the outer ear, which then uses the vagus nerve to transmit signals to the body's nervous system. According to recent research from the University of Leeds Faculty of Biological Sciences, the therapy may mitigate significant age-related effects. They include high blood pressure, heart disease, and atrial fibrillation, which are chronic conditions to which we are increasingly susceptible as we age. In today's issue of the journal Aging, the researchers believe that the "tickle" Therapy has the ability to rebalance the body's internal control system, allowing people to age more healthily. The University of Leeds' School of Biomedical Sciences' Dr. Beatrice Bretherton, the study's lead author, said: "Without using drugs or intrusive procedures, the ear is like a gateway through which we may play with the body's metabolic equilibrium. We think that these findings are just the beginning. We are eager to look into the impacts and possible long-term advantages of daily ear stimulation because so far, the treatment has produced excellent results" Researchers from the University of Leeds carried out the study, which was supported by the Dunhill Medical Trust. How is the autonomic nervous connected to the vagus nerve? Many bodily processes, including digestion, breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure, that don't require conscious thought are controlled by the autonomic nervous system. It has two branches, the sympathetic and parasympathetic, which compete with one another to keep the body's activity levels in check. The parasympathetic branch is essential to low intensity "rest and digest" activity, whereas the sympathetic branch aids in the body's preparation for high intensity "fight or flight" activity. The body's balance shifts as we become older and as we're battling illnesses, making the sympathetic branch more dominant. As we age, this imbalance causes the loss of basic bodily function and increases our susceptibility to developing new diseases. Previous studies have investigated the idea of employing vagus nerve stimulation to treat illnesses like depression, epilepsy, obesity, stroke, tinnitus, and cardiac problems. The only drawback of this type of stimulation is that electrodes must be surgically implanted in the neck region, which comes at a cost and with a minor risk of adverse consequences. Thankfully, there is a small branch of the vagus nerve in the skin of select areas of the outer ear that can be stimulated without surgery using TENS ear clips via a TENS Machine. Previous studies conducted in Leeds have demonstrated that in healthy 30-year-olds, the balance of the autonomic nervous system can be improved by giving a little electrical stimulus to the vagus nerve near the ear, which some people describe as a tickling feeling. Now, researchers from all over the world are examining whether transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) may be used as a treatment for ailments ranging from cardiac issues to mental health. Diane Crossley, a 70-year-old participant from Leeds who underwent the tVNS therapy for two weeks, participated in the trial. I was glad to take part in this incredibly intriguing study, since it raised my awareness of my own health, the woman stated. "I was honoured to be a part of such an interesting endeavour." Researchers at the University of Leeds conducted a new study to determine whether tVNS could help people over 55, who are more prone to have unbalanced autonomic systems that may be a factor in age-related health problems. They selected 29 healthy volunteers who were 55 years of age or older, and over the course of two weeks, each received daily treatments of 15 minutes of tVNS therapy. Participants learned how to administer tVNS treatment at home during the study period. The therapy helped to balance the autonomic function back towards what is thought to be related with healthy function by increasing parasympathetic activity and decreasing sympathetic activity. Some participants also reported improvements in their sleep patterns and mental health metrics. Correcting this activity balance may help us age more healthily and may also benefit those who suffer from a number of diseases, including heart disease and various mental health conditions. Enhancing the autonomic nervous system's equilibrium also reduces a person's risk of dying, as well as their requirement for medicine or hospitalisation. Those who had the most imbalance at the beginning of the study showed the most profound changes after receiving the therapy, the researchers discovered. They believe that in the future, it might be able to determine who is most likely to gain from the therapy so that it can be provided in a targeted manner. This study demonstrates that tVNS therapy may have important physiological advantages in addition to its previously demonstrated beneficial psychological effects for patients with depression. One of the study's principal authors, Dr. Susan Deuchars, stated: "We believe this stimulation can significantly improve people's lives, and we now hope to do additional trials to determine whether tVNS can treat multiple illnesses."

This short blog post will highlight how a TENS Machine can help you reduce and manage the symptoms of arthritis. What is Arthritis? Arthritis is very common but is not well understood. The term “arthritis” is not a single disease; it is an informal way of referring to joint pain or any condition relating to joint disease. There are over 100 types of arthritis and related conditions. People of all ages, sexes and races can and do have arthritis. Nearly 4 million Australian's have some type of arthritis. It is most common among women and occurs more frequently as people get older. What are the symptoms of Arthritis? The most common signs and symptoms of arthritis involve the joints. Depending on the type of arthritis, signs and symptoms may include: Pain Stiffness Swelling Redness Decreased range of motion What can be done? There are many things that can be done to preserve joint function, mobility and quality of life. Learning about the disease and treatment options and making time for physical activity. Millions of people around the world have turned to TENS Therapy for arthritis pain relief with great, proven results. How a TENS Machine can help Arthritis Pain? TENS uses self adhesice electrode patches attached to a small, battery-operated device. It sends an electric current to your nerves to override pain signals. Another way TENS may relieve pain is by triggering the release of natural painkillers (endorphins) in the brain. A TENS Machine helps acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) pain caused by arthrits. TENS has been shown to relieve osteoarthritis (OA) pain and reduce the need for pain medications. A 2015 Cochrane Review concluded, “[there is] tentative evidence that TENS reduces pain intensity over and above that seen with placebo. It’s estimated that overall, about half of people who try TENS get a 50 percent reduction in pain. How to use a TENS Machine for Arthritis? Once you’ve found the right TENS Machine for you, the below settings are recommended for management of arthritis pain. Pulse Width: 170-200 uS Pulse Rate: 90 to 110Hz TENS Mode: C Acute pain: 20 to 60min up to four times daily Chronic pain: 20 to 30min up to five times weekly Recommended Items: https://www.homemedics.com.au/product-page/copy-of-mh-8000-tens-ems-combo-the-lot-butterfly-pad Back to Home Page References: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/what-is-arthritis https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350772

What is Tourette Syndrome? Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by the occurrence of vocal and motor tics. Tics are involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalizations that occur in bouts, typically many times in a single day, and are often preceded by a strong urge-to-tic, premonitory urge (PU). Various neurological dysfunctions causes TS. How does TENS Therapy Help? Non-invasive brain stimulation delivered to cortical motor areas can modulate cortical motor excitability, entrain brain oscillations, and reduce tics in TS. Highlights Rhythmic median nerve stimulation can entrain sensorimotor mu-band oscillations •Mu-band entrainment has minimal effect on volitional movement or cognition •Mu-band entrainment significantly reduces motor and vocal tics in Tourette syndrome •Mu-band entrainment reduces the urge-to-tic in Tourette syndrome Usage: Pad Placement: Right Wrist TENS Settings: Pulse Rate 12Hz, Mode: B, Pulse Width: 100 Microseconds Recommend Items: iStim EV-820 Pre- programmed Digital TENS Machine Round Small TENS Pads Electrodes 3x3cm Back to Home Page Journal Reference: https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(20)30558-3?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS0960982220305583%3Fshowall%3Dtrue

Breast stimulation plays a pivotal role in various aspects of women's health, including lactation, menstrual cycle regulation, and sexual arousal. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) machines, known for their therapeutic applications in pain management and rehabilitation, offer a novel approach to breast stimulation. In this exploration, we highlight the benefits and potential applications of using TENS machines for breast stimulation, with a particular focus on lactation support. Understanding Breast Stimulation: Breast stimulation involves the activation of nerve endings and mammary glands in the breast tissue, eliciting physiological responses such as milk production, hormone release, and heightened sensory arousal. While breastfeeding is the most common form of breast stimulation, various techniques, including manual massage and mechanical devices, can also be employed to promote lactation and enhance breast health. What is a TENS Machine? A TENS machine is a portable, non-invasive device that delivers controlled electrical impulses to specific areas of the body via electrodes placed on the skin. Originally developed for pain relief, TENS machines have gained recognition for their versatile applications in physiotherapy, sports medicine, and obstetrics. When applied to the breasts, TENS therapy offers a safe and effective method of promoting milk production, relieving engorgement, and facilitating breastfeeding. Benefits of TENS Therapy for Breast Stimulation: Promotes Lactation: Breastfeeding initiation and maintenance are contingent upon adequate milk production and milk ejection reflex (let-down). TENS therapy stimulates the nerves and mammary glands in the breasts, triggering the release of oxytocin, the hormone responsible for milk ejection. By enhancing lactation, TENS machines can support breastfeeding success and maternal-infant bonding. Relieves Engorgement: Engorgement, characterized by swollen, tender breasts due to milk accumulation, is a common challenge for breastfeeding mothers, particularly in the early postpartum period. TENS therapy can alleviate engorgement by promoting milk flow and enhancing lymphatic drainage. By reducing breast congestion and discomfort, TENS machines facilitate breastfeeding comfort and prevent complications such as mastitis. Facilitates Milk Let-Down: Milk let-down, the process by which milk is released from the alveoli into the ducts during breastfeeding, can be hindered by stress, pain, or hormonal imbalances. TENS therapy augments milk let-down by stimulating the nerves responsible for oxytocin release. By inducing rhythmic contractions of the myoepithelial cells surrounding the milk ducts, TENS machines enhance milk flow and breastfeeding efficiency. Enhances Breast Health: Beyond lactation support, TENS therapy contributes to overall breast health by improving blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and preventing tissue congestion. Regular breast stimulation with TENS machines may help alleviate discomfort associated with premenstrual breast tenderness, fibrocystic changes, and hormonal fluctuations. Additionally, TENS machines offer a non-pharmacological approach to managing breast pain and discomfort during breastfeeding. Application of TENS Machines for Breast Stimulation: Integrating TENS therapy into breastfeeding support strategies requires proper electrode placement, stimulation parameters, and patient education. Electrodes are typically positioned over the areola and surrounding breast tissue. Therapists or lactation consultants adjust TENS settings based on individual preferences and breastfeeding goals, ensuring optimal efficacy and safety. How to use a TENS Machine for Lactation? Treatment 1 Pad Placement: 2x Pads (<5cm in size) on lateral sides of both Nipples (5cm apart) TENS Settings: TENS Mode Burst Width: 90 us Rate: 1.0 Hz Intensity: User Defined (Shouldn’t be too weak or too strong) Duration: 15 mins each session 4x a Day Treatment 2 Clip Placement: 2x Clips on both Nipples TENS Settings: TENS Mode Burst, Width: 50 us Rate: 0.8 Hz Intensity: User Defined (Start off low and work your way up to a comfortable level) Duration: 15 mins each session 4x a Day Recommended Items: Back to Home Page

You can find detailed images of our TENS Pad Placements and Settings here: https://www.homemedics.com.au/tens-ems-pad-placement-chart Back to Home Page

TENS has been used for many years by pregnant women to manage pain in labour without any reported side-effects for either Mother or baby. How does it work? A TENS portable battery powered TENS Machine provides a low level pulsed electrical current through electrodes placed on the skin. This creates a tingling or prickling sensation. It is thought that the current blocks pain messages going to the brain and also causes naturally occurring pain-relieving substances called endorphins to be released. These endorphins help you to relax and manage your labour pain. The TENS unit has dials that you can adjust to control the frequency and strength of the electrical pulses and also a small boost button for more difficult contractions. Advantages • Drug free pain relief • Non-invasive • Small and Portable • Can be used in conjunction with other pain relieving techniques, e.g. positioning, relaxation, massage or heat • Ready to use • Allows you to keep mobile • Self-controlled & effective How to use? The TENS works best and gives you the most effective pain relief if you use it at the very beginning of your labour. This gives your body time to produce endorphins. The TENS is most effective for back pain of labour. Place the electrodes on your lower back where you feel the pain of the contractions. Do not place the electrodes over the pregnant uterus. Recommend Item: MUMS TO BE Labour Obstetric TENS & EMS Machine Back to Home Page Sources: https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/dce840d2-ed15-47ef-9f33-cb6342e683f9/TENS+in+Labour+consumer+health+information+-+Physiotherapy+FMC.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CACHEID=ROOTWORKSPACE-dce840d2-ed15-47ef-9f33-cb6342e683f9-nwoYwyq

If your here, you’ve probably heard of VNS using a TENS Machine before. Lets take a look at the basics and what it can do for you. Its a pretty big deal. What is the Vagus Nerve? The Vagus Nerve, starts in the brain and runs down the trunk of the body, with branches supplying the major organs. It plays a big role in the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and HPA axis. It interacts closely with the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) and helps to regulate the heart, lungs, digestive system and more. It's a bi-directional nerve, meaning it both sends signals from the brain to the organs and the organs send messages back to the brain. What does tVNS using a TENS Machine do? Using a TENS Machine to stimulate the Vagus Nerve via the outer ear has many documented and well researched benefits. We have highlighted the main points of interest from tVNS. Boosts "rest and digest" parasympathetic activity and reduces "fight or flight" sympathetic activity in adults. Quality of life, mood and sleep changes may be improved with transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation administered for 15 minutes every day for two weeks. Improvements in depression, anger, tension, confusion and low energy. Conditions like leaky gut, gut dysbiosis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, heart disease Alzheimer’s disease and chronic fatigue syndrome are associated low activity of the vagus nerve. Vagus nerve stimulation helps prevent and lessen the recovery time from seizures by sending, mild eletrical pulses to the brain via the vagus nerve. Studies have shown that transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) using a TENS machine can have therapeutic results that are comparable to those of vagus nerve stimulation, its invasive equivalent (VNS). The auricular branch of the vagus nerve (ABVN) and the cervical branch of the vagus nerve in the neck are the most frequently targeted areas of the vagus nerve using the non-invasive technique known as transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS). The ABVN can be targeted with TENS ear clips using a suitable TENS Machine. Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) using a TENS machine with ear clips is a non-invasive technique that aims to modulate the activity of the vagus nerve. tVNS involves delivering electrical impulses to the vagus nerve through electrodes placed on the skin, particularly on the ear where branches of the vagus nerve are accessible. Mechanism of Action: tVNS works by delivering electrical stimulation to the vagus nerve, influencing its communication with the brain and various organs. By modulating vagal activity, tVNS can potentially regulate autonomic functions, mood, and overall well-being. Benefits: tVNS has been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits in various medical conditions, including epilepsy, depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. It may help reduce seizure frequency, alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, and manage chronic pain conditions. Epilepsy: tVNS has been approved as a treatment for epilepsy in some regions. By modulating the activity of the vagus nerve, tVNS can help reduce the occurrence and severity of seizures in individuals who are not responsive to medication. Depression and Anxiety: Research suggests that tVNS may have antidepressant and anxiolytic effects. By influencing vagal tone and neurotransmitter activity, tVNS can potentially improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Chronic Pain: tVNS may also be effective in managing chronic pain conditions, such as migraines, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain. It works by modulating pain signals transmitted by the nervous system, providing relief from persistent pain. Safety and Considerations: While tVNS using a TENS machine with ear clips is generally considered safe, it's important to use the device according to manufacturer instructions and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Some potential side effects may include skin irritation, dizziness, or discomfort during stimulation. Research and Future Directions: Ongoing research continues to explore the potential applications of tVNS in various medical conditions. As our understanding of the vagus nerve and its role in health and disease advances, there may be new opportunities for utilizing tVNS as a therapeutic intervention. tVNS for Common Health Conditions: Read full article here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7199464/ How to use a TENS Machine for tVNS? Targeting the Vagus nerve can be accomplished by stimulating the anterior wall of the outer ear canal, landmarked notably by the tragus (A1), or cymba conchae (A2). Sham stimulation is administered to the earlobe (S). Simply connect our TENS Ear Clips specially designed for tVNS to a TENS Machine that supports custom parameters and follow the settings below. Settings: Pulse width: 200 milliseconds Mode: Normal mode Pulse frequency: 30 Hz. Intensity: to your comfortable tolerance Duration 15-20 minutes every day for 2 weeks What you’ll need: Back to Home Page Sources: Beatrice Bretherton, Lucy Atkinson, Aaron Murray, Jennifer Clancy, Susan Deuchars, Jim Deuchars. “Effects of Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Individuals Aged 55 Years or Above: Potential Benefits of Daily Stimulation.” Aging (First published: July 30, 2019) DOI: 10.18632/aging.102074 Susan A. Deuchars, Varinder K. Lall, Jennifer Clancy, Mohd Mahadi, Aaron Murray, Lucy Peers, Jim Deuchars. "Mechanisms Underpinning Sympathetic Nervous Activity and Its Modulation Using Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation." Experimental Physiology (First published: November 11, 2017) DOI: 10.1113/EP086433 Meghan E. Addorisio, Gavin H. Imperato, Alex F. de Vos, Steve Fort, Richard S. Goldstein, Valentin A. Pavlov, Tom van der Poll, Huan Yang, Betty Diamond, Kevin J. Tracey, and Sangeeta S. Chavan. "Investigational Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis with a Vibrotactile Device Applied to the External Ear." Bioelectronic Medicine (First published: April 17, 2019) DOI: 10.1186/s42234-019-0020-4 https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/devices/vagus-nerve-stimulation-vns

Can an EMS Machine really help improve muscle mass? Here’s what the top experts in the field have to say.. What is EMS? Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS), also known as neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a procedure that causes a muscle contraction by directly stimulating your motor neurons. This can cause different type of contractions depending on user input and what you are hoping to achieve. Interestingly enough, your body doesn’t know the difference between a voluntary stimulation and an electric stimulation. This means you are contracting the same muscle fibres without putting stress on your tendons and joints. What can an EMS Machine do? EMS Machines can do a lot for your muscles. Here are some of the main highlights exctracted from recent studies: “The use of the high-frequency current therapy may be beneficial for reducing the levels of abdominal obesity" The subjects did these EMS sessions three times per week for six weeks for 30 mins. After those six weeks, the researchers found that without modifying their exercise or diet, the EMS did indeed cause significant effects on decreasing waist circumference, abdominal obesity, subcutaneous fat mass, and body fat percentage. Warm up & Cool Down an EMS machine can help you warm up andbefore a workout. Get your muscles moving while conserving your energy. Save it for the hard work ahead! After working out, it can also help cool down your muslces after a vigorous workout EMS could be used as a rehabilitation and preventive tool for partially or totally immobilized patients (muslce atrophy, physical therapy) Strengthen muscles and improve endurance by activating fast twitch fibres. Massage When using an EMS Machine for massage purposes, it has the capability of producing endorphins (your body's natural pain killer and feel good neurotransmitter). This can lead to decreased aches, pains, stiffness and soreness. How to use an EMS Machine? All of our EMS Machines supplied in Australia come with an EMS Pad Placement and Settings Chart. We’ve made it super simple to follow and set up your machine for each type of condition you want to treat. Our EMS Machines use the latest stimulation technology in combination with clinical grade power and performance. To start using EMS therapy, simply follow the chart provided with your machine and set up accordingly! Best EMS Machine? We offer a wide selection of Combo TENS EMS Machines. Pick one thats suitable for you and works with your budget. Top Picks: Multi-Stim Plus Rechargeable Combo TENS/EMS Machine Multi Stim Plus Dual Power Combo TENS/EMS Machine iStim EV-804 Combo TENS & EMS Machine Back to Home Page Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22067247/ https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jpts/27/1/27_jpts-2014-277/_pdf

Ever wondered how a TENS Machine can help reduce pain? What is TENS? TENS is a safe, easy to use and drug free method of pain relief used by hospital pain clinics and in physiotherapy since the 1960's. TENS is an abbreviation of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. The TENS Device is a small battery operated box which produces pain relieving electrical pulses. Either 2 or 4 self adhesive electrodes are applied to the skin and attached to the TENS unit with lead wires. The tiny pulses are then passed from the TENS unit, via the lead wires and electrodes, so that they are applied to the nerves which lie underneath the skin surface. The electrodes are normally positioned over, or around, the area of pain but other more advanced applications may often prove better. How does a TENS Machine work? TENS works through 3 different mechanisms. First, electrical stimulation of the nerves can block a pain signal as they travel from the site of injury to the spine and upwards to the brain. If these signals arrive at the brain we perceive pain - if they are blocked en-route to the brain we do not perceive pain - this is known as 'closing the pain gate'. When using TENS to 'close the gate' we use Conventional Tens Mode. Conventional (or Continuous) TENS mode produces a gentle and pleasant 'tingling' under and between the two electrodes. The 'tingle' sensation helps to block the pain by closing the 'pain gate' and slowing down the painful nerve signals - this produces analgesia (numbness) in the painful area. Secondly, the body has its own built in mechanism for suppressing pain. It does this by releasing natural chemicals called endorphins in the brain and spinal cord and these chemicals act as very powerful analgesics. When using TENS to help activate endorphins we use Burst Tens Mode. Burst mode produces a rhythmic pulse which should be strong enough to produce a 'twitch' in the muscles underneath the electrodes. This muscle 'twitch' helps to release the endorphins and enkephalins and also helps the pain 'switches' in the brain to be activated through muscular and reflex activity. Finally, muscles which are in spasm, or have become short and hard as a result of long term hypertension, can produce much of the pain associated with back related problems and arthritis. We can help these muscles to relax and soften by using the gentle massage effect of Modulated TENS Mode. Modulation (massage) mode produces a gentle and comforting massage effect which exercises problematic muscles and helps to reduce musculoskeletal pain. Back to Home Page

Pre Application: Before using your TENS machine, its important to make sure the area you want to treat is squeaky clean. Natural Oils, sweat and other materials can deteriorate the sticky layer of the TENS pads and make them less effective over time. Use alcohol wipes or warm sopay water to wipe/wash the treatment area before use. TIP: Shaving/Removing any hair in the treatment area will greatly improve conductivity and longevity of TENS Pads. Handling of Pads: When peeling the TENS Pads from the plasic sheeting, try to reduce contact with the sticky area as much as possible. Gently peel the pads off the plastic sheeting by pulling from the wire then place on treatment area. Our pads are made from the higest quality material available and use carbon fibre wires so you wont damage your pads if done gently. When treatment is completed, gently remove the pads from the wire or edges of the electrode and place back on the plastic sheet. Store in a cool dry area away from direct sunlight. By following these steps, you will increase the longevity of your pads. Eventually you will have to replace your pads. Sticky pads all have a life span and this depends on usage time, size of pads used and area of body treated. Back to Home Page https://www.homemedics.com.au/tens-replacement-pads