PDA

View Full Version : How to use TENS for IC?


DaniMSC
10-14-2011, 01:33 PM
I have a small portable TENS unit I got from a physical therapist for back pain a few years ago. I keep reading that people TENS for IC therapy but I'm not sure how. Do you put the pads directly over the bladder? Or is it really used more for PFD, and you put the pads on your inner thigh or something?? If anyone has ideas on how I could use it for my IC i'd love to hear it.
skybluesoul
10-14-2011, 03:20 PM
You can place the pads in a couple different spots.....basically wherever you have pain. When I use mine, usually I put them all on my low back, near my sacrum. If my bladder is acting up, I put 2 on my low back, and 2 over my bladder.
DaniMSC
10-14-2011, 06:15 PM
Ok! Do you find that it helps the pain immediately or do you feel that its good for healing in the long run? Thanks!
skybluesoul
10-15-2011, 04:12 AM
Ok! Do you find that it helps the pain immediately or do you feel that its good for healing in the long run? Thanks!

You should feel relief while you're using the TENS. It's almost like a band-aid for me for days when I have more discomfort than usual. Maybe others will chime in?
icyjunomary
10-15-2011, 06:38 AM
Does your machine have two or four contact points? If four you should place one positive and one negative in front on your tummy and then one positive and one negative on your back but in the opposite location (IE positive on front right on the tummy and back left on your low back.) This creates a cross-current that gets the electrical sine wave moving through your body. I have a Empi machine prescribed in 2007 by the late and wonderful Dr. Dan Brookoff. I loved how much it helped with my pain. Then I developed allergic reactions to the glues in every type of electrode pad I could find including the ones for sensitive skin. (I am allergic to latex as well) I still sometimes use it for a short while for non chemical pain relief.
As to a tens with two electrode pads I would try varied positions to see what feels like it is helping. I tried my sister-in-laws tens machine before I decided to buy the 4 electrode Empi machine. It helped enough to convince me to go for it. Best wishes and don't be afraid to try it to see if it helps. Then you'll know.