Guide To Treating Costochondritis

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a method of relieving pain through the use of electrical currents. Physical therapists often use this technique, and consumer devices have recently become available for patients to use at home. The electrical signals from the device interrupt pain signals from the body before these can reach the brain. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation begins with the placement of electrode patches at certain points on the body near the affected area. The electrodes are connected to a handheld device that controls the intensity and type of pulsations emitted. After turning on the device, patients will feel a mild buzzing sensation, and they can experiment with different levels of intensity and types of pulsations until they find a combination that works for them. Most patients describe the buzzing feeling as pleasant.

In general, one session should last for around twenty minutes, and certain devices may need to be used for a shorter length of time. Patients who have never used transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation before may wish to start with five-minute sessions to see how they feel. If any discomfort occurs, patients can stop the session by turning off the machine. Patients should consider asking their medical team before this treatment, and individuals with pacemakers, heart conditions, diabetes, and epilepsy may not be able to use these devices at all or may need to do so only under supervision.

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