How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for endometriosis? Placement of electrode pads

The functioning and internal structure of the female reproductive system obeys very delicate processes to maintain its balance and optimal functioning, so that an imbalance of any kind can cause a variety of diseases, which result in symptoms that can greatly impair the quality of life of patients.

Among the main diseases affecting the female reproductive system, we can especially highlight endometriosis, a disorder characterized by the pain it causes. Below, we will teach you everything you need to know about the causes and symptoms of endometriosis, and how to use TENS and EMS electrotherapy devices to relieve its symptoms.

How to use TENS machines to relieve endometriosis pain?

Since endometriosis is a condition that can be generated mostly by hormonal imbalances, the intensity of pain can vary from one area to another. Below, we will show you how to use TENS devices to treat endometriosis pain.

Where to place the electrodes?

Since the main pain in endometriosis occurs in the pelvic area, the electrodes should be positioned in the most relevant areas to stimulate the nerve endings that innervate the pelvic floor.

For this purpose, the optimal locations for TENS electrodes are as follows:

• Lower lumbar area, just above the sacrum, interacting with the sensory roots of the sacral nerves
• Perineum, between the vagina and anus, to directly stimulate the perineal nerve.

Which current to use?

Applying electrical impulses to the sacral and perineal nerves is an excellent way to treat pain caused by endometriosis, provided that the right frequency is applied to stimulate endorphin production.

For this particular case, shocks of 8 Hz to 250 microseconds can be applied, as well as shocks of 85 Hz to 75 microseconds. Both frequencies offer similar benefits at the nervous and muscular level for pelvic floor sensitivity, providing the patient with a sense of relief.

Best TENS units for treating uterine inflammation

While there is little study regarding the effectiveness of TENS therapy for the treatment of endometriosis, a large percentage of women have benefited from its effects, making it an option to consider. However, the lack of studies in itself is a reason why it is necessary to select the right device for the treatment, in order to apply an optimal therapy that does not generate pain in the patient. For this purpose, the best TENS units are:

The correct word to describe the effect of this compact electrostimulator from iReliev is "precision". It is a wireless device designed for the treatment of localised pain points. Due to its size and the fact that it does not require any wires to operate, it is completely discreet and can be used anywhere, while travelling and under clothing.

Its efficient use of TENS technology allows it to block pain signals before they reach the brain, making it a safe method of treating ailments. It also has a long-lasting lithium battery and an energy-efficient function, which switches the device off every 20 minutes. One of the best devices on the market in terms of portability, discretion and functionality.

The physiotherapy accessories brand AccuRelief presents one of the most versatile and complete electro-stimulation device models on the market. This is its massager that includes TENS and EMS therapy functions, together with a very interesting pulse massage function, which makes it the best option for treating pain and complementing physical training.

Its 60 adjustable intensity levels can be easily modified via the mobile app, and coupled with the device's cordless and compact size, means you can have constant access to full massage therapy whether you're at home, in the office or on holiday, as you can take the AccuRelief with you wherever you go.

The iReliev electrostimulator offers users the perfect combination of an electrical pulse massage for the relief of pain caused by injury and illness, and a muscle trainer that uses a slightly more powerful current to generate activity in the muscles. Its wireless operating system is managed by a remote control included in the box.

It has 14 operating programmes dedicated to particular functions. 7 are designed for pain relief, 1 is designed to treat arthritis, and the remaining 6 are different muscle conditioning modalities. In addition to the controller, the box includes 2 wireless pods, 2 reusable 3x5 inch adhesive electrodes, a rechargeable lithium battery, a USB charging cable, a carrying case and an instruction manual.

Among the various products offered by the AccuRelief brand, its remote-controlled TENS electrostimulation unit has a lot of very interesting functions and features. It is based on TENS stimulation technology to influence the production of endorphins, which act as natural painkillers in the body.

The package includes 1 wireless remote control operating on AAA batteries 2 electrode control units, 2 reusable gel pads and an instruction manual. The ergonomic and compact design of the pads allows them to be used anywhere on the body, and they are discreet enough to be worn under clothing. It has 3 modes of use and 20 levels of intensity designed for safe and fast pain relief.

The best feature of the iReliev wireless electro stimulator is that it has one of the most complete sets of equipment on the market. The wireless unit included in the package works with both TENS and EMS technology, and also includes 4 receiver pods, 8 electrodes, a dual interchangeable cable adapter, 1 carrying case, a starter guide and an instruction manual, making it one of the best-equipped packages available.

Its rechargeable battery gives you 8 to 10 hours continuous run time per full charge, and each of the pods provides 3 to 5 hours of continuous operation. With 8 TENS and 6 EMS preset programmes, along with 25 intensity levels, its 4-channel system allows you to perform isolated treatment on various muscle groups. Undoubtedly the most complete option you can find for the treatment of ailments.

Massage Therapy Concepts offers its incredible VPOD wireless muscle stimulator, specifically designed to treat all types of pain through the use of TENS, EMS and NMES electrostimulation modality, which translates into a non-invasive and completely drug-free method of pain relief. Its mode of use is really simple, as everything can be quickly configured from the device's mobile app.

Its 20 preset massage modes, in conjunction with its 24 intensity levels, offer the best and most complete massage experience available for pain relief, and its butterfly-shaped design and flexible and adaptable material will allow you to easily position the electrodes anywhere on the body. In the package you will find 1 VPOD unit, 2 medium reusable gel electrodes and 1 large reusable gel electrode, along with a carrying case that allows you to take it anywhere.

This wireless mini massager, brought to you by TENS MAKER, is one of the most compact and versatile ways to combat aches and pains caused by illness and injury with 15 levels of intensity to suit any type of pain. Its compact size and discretion make it totally portable, so you can make use of this amazing device at any time and place.

Upon purchase, you will receive not one, but two TENS devices, along with 4 gel pads, 2 sets of interchangeable batteries, 1 storage case and 1 instruction manual. This is one of the best cordless massage machines you will find, providing immediate relief for any type of ailment.

The OSITO brand has one of the most versatile and practical models of wireless electro-stimulator on the market, with TENS and EMS electrotherapy functions, which will allow you to provide relief for any type of ailment, while creating electrical pulses that activate the muscle fibres, greatly improving your physical condition.

Its compact size and long-lasting rechargeable lithium battery make it the epitome of portability, as you can take it anywhere. It has 11 modes of use and 25 intensity levels that allow for a profound relief effect. Each of the 11 modes provides a different type of massage and because the electrical impulses stimulate the human body's pain tolerance capacity, it does not require the use of medication.

Easy@Home's compact TENS unit is one of the safest, most practical and versatile ways to treat muscle and nerve pain anywhere, thanks to its TENS and EMS electrical stimulation technology, designed for localised pain relief.

Its ergonomic design allows you to position the electrode almost anywhere on the body, so you can apply the electrical impulses to biceps, triceps, shoulders, elbows, knees, ankles and any other area requiring treatment. It has 6 modes of use and 20 intensity levels, which can be easily adjusted from the two-button control built into the pad.

The WiTouch electrostimulation device is one of Hollywog's most popular and outstanding products, designed with high quality TENS technology, allowing you to apply it to any area of the body where you feel pain, with the aim of generating an instant sensation of relief. Its lightweight and compact design allows you to use it discreetly anytime, anywhere.

It features 4 effective and comprehensive electrotherapy programmes, including WiTouch's unique patented treatment programme; each programme offers 15 levels of intensity, with a professional-grade power output ranging from 0 - 100mA. The package includes the WiTouch device, 3 pairs of gel pads, 2 AAA batteries, a mini screwdriver to access the battery compartment and a quick start guide.

Video: How to place electrodes pads for endometriosis?

Electrodes for endometriosis

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Are EMS machines effective in strengthening muscles and preventing endometriosis pain?

Unfortunately, studies using EMS devices in patients with endometriosis or prone to endometriosis have been scarce, so there is no evidence that can confirm or disprove the usefulness of muscle electrostimulation for the treatment or prevention of endometriosis.

In addition, the very nature of EMS therapy makes its effectiveness for the treatment of endometriosis pain unlikely, since it is a physical conditioning method that, although it is suitable for muscle massage, has a base frequency that is too high to be plausible.

What is endometriosis and what causes it?

Endometriosis is a disorder that affects the endometrial tissue, which lines the inside of the uterus, causing it to grow outside the uterus, affecting the fallopian tubes, ovaries and the tissue lining the pelvis. This condition causes the endometrial-like tissue to break down, thicken and bleed with each menstrual cycle, causing it to become trapped inside the body.

The main symptoms of endometriosis are especially pronounced during the menstrual period, and are listed below:

• Moderate to severe pain
• Fertility problems
• Excessive bleeding during menstrual periods
• Diarrhea, bloating or nausea

Although the main cause of endometriosis is not clearly defined, it is possible to attribute to some explanations, such as:

• Retrograde menstruation: a condition in which menstrual blood, containing endometrial cells, flows back into the body through the fallopian tubes instead of out, causing these cells to attach to the pelvic organs, where they grow and bleed each menstrual period
• Implantation of surgical scars: there is a possibility that endometrial cells may attach to the pelvic organs after surgeries such as hysterectomy or cesarean section.
• Immune system disorders: immune problems may result in the body's inability to detect and destroy endometrial tissue outside the uterus, allowing it to grow and affect the pelvic organs.
• Peritoneal cell transformation: certain hormonal or immune factors can convert the peritoneal cells that line the inside of the abdomen into endometrial-like tissue.
• Embryonic cell transformation: hormonal dysfunctions affecting estrogen production can cause cells in early stages of development to become endometrial-like cells. It is a process that can occur in the early stages of puberty.

Differences between TENS and EMS: Which is better for treating endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition that can cause considerable pain in the lower abdomen and pelvic area, making it necessary to apply therapy methods in order to treat the pain caused by this condition. This is where TENS and EMS electrotherapy methods come into play, both of which are very effective in relieving ailments caused by different types of disorders.

However, it is necessary to make the distinction between TENS and EMS electrotherapy technique, as well as their use and effect on the body. TENS therapy is a treatment method that involves the use of electric shocks that reduce the sensation of pain in patients suffering from various disorders.

The most distinctive characteristics of this technique are the following:

• The intensity of its electrical currents ranges from 1 to 250 Hz, a relatively low frequency.
• Its effect is applied on the micro nerve endings in the lower abdominal area and the nociceptors of the sciatic nerve that innervate the pelvis.
• The electrical currents produced by TENS units prevent pain signals from traveling from the nerve receptors to the brain, causing a reduction in the sensation of pain.
• It is a technique I have seen in many branches of physical therapy

On the other hand, Electro Muscular Stimulation, or EMS, is a training and fitness technique designed to improve the condition of muscle tissue. The following characteristics stand out in this type of therapy.

• The base frequency of its electrical impulses is much higher, being fixed at a minimum of 70 Hz, and can reach up to 150 Hz.
• It interacts on the muscle tissue, causing an increase in the creation of muscle fibers that cause its growth.
• It is focused on training and physical conditioning
• It can generate an aggressive response of the nervous tissue when applied to injuries and painful disorders.

With this information, it is concluded that to treat the pain caused in the pelvic area by endometriosis, it is necessary to apply the Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation treatment, in order to numb the nerve endings of the sciatic nerve, which cause the sensation of pain in the pelvic area, causing it to reduce and generating a sense of relief in the patient.

It is necessary to highlight the fact that the effectiveness of the treatment varies from one patient to another, since although many women have treated the pain caused by endometriosis with TENS electrotherapy, there are reports of cases in which it offers practically no benefit.

On the other hand, muscular electrostimulation therapy does not provide any benefit to patients suffering from endometriosis, since it is mainly a hormonal disease, so the stimulation discharges on the pelvic floor muscles do not offer relief to the problem

Contraindications to the use of electrodes and electrotherapy