How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for meniscus tear recovery? Placement of electrode pads

The knees play a vital role in the motor processes of the human body, since the legs have a wide range of motion and a cushioning system when performing more demanding activities such as walking and running. This cushioning is originated by a system of cartilages located in the knees, which are called menisci.

Due to the constant stress to which they are exposed, the menisci have the possibility of suffering tears that can generate considerable ailments. In these cases, it is necessary to use electrotherapy methods to treat the symptoms of this injury. Below, we will teach you everything you need to know about the consequences of meniscus tears and how to use TENS and EMS electrotherapy to deal with their symptoms.

How to use TENS machines to relieve meniscus tear pain?

The optimal use of TENS units for the treatment of knee pain responds to specific criteria to ensure their effectiveness in reducing pain on a long-term basis. These criteria are the location of the electrodes and the intensity of the electric current applied.

Where to place the electrodes?

In general, TENS treatment for knee injuries requires avoiding positioning the electrodes over the patella, so that the electrical discharges interact with the nerves as effectively as possible.

In the case of meniscal tear pain, this rule holds true, indicating that the optimal positions are as follows:

• Over the vastus medialis muscle, to interact with the sensory branches of the femoral nerve.
• Over the lateral portion of the thigh, aligned with the lateral femorocutaneous nerve.
• Below the knee joint, just above the tibia, to interact with the tibial nerve branches.
• Inner lateral aspect of the knee, over the anterior branch of the obturator nerve.

Which current to use?

For the purposes of numbing the nerve endings in the area and encouraging the production of endorphins to combat pain, it is necessary to select a frequency in the middle spectrum of the possible range of TENS devices.

This frequency is usually 100 Hz, although it can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the level of pain presented by the patient.

Best TENS units to treat meniscus tears

In order to be able to apply TENS therapy effectively for pain caused by meniscal tears, it is necessary to select devices that have the appropriate settings. Among these we can mention the following:

This multifunction electrotherapy device is one of the most complete and versatile electro stimulators you will find. Brought to light by TechCare Massage, this device combines the most commonly used electrostimulation technologies to treat different types of ailments. The TENS and EMS technologies allow you to relieve acute and chronic ailments, deep muscle pain and promote the rehabilitation and regeneration of muscle fibers.

It includes 24 massage programs in total, which are designed to treat a wide variety of ailments. Each of the modes has 4 different options to choose from, and comes with all the accessories you may need, from electrodes and guide wires to a user guide and an electrode positioning guide.

The AUVON electro stimulator is at the forefront of electro stimulation technology, combining TENS and EMS stimulation technologies to obtain one of the most complete treatments for acute and chronic pain, caused by injuries or illnesses, as well as an incredible complement for physical conditioning thanks to its muscle stimulation technology.

It has 20 modes of use that apply different types of massages oriented to treat a wide variety of ailments, and with its independent channel control mode you will have the possibility of configuring different programs for each of the channels individually, to apply different types of massages in various areas of the body.

Spacerest offers its users its newest model of electro stimulator that combines TENS and EMS technologies in a dynamic and compact device that includes 24 reusable electrodes of excellent quality and an incredible 4-channel function that will allow you to apply different modes of use to 4 different areas of the body, or even to 4 different people.

It has an incredibly portable size that will allow you to take it anywhere, and a high-powered rechargeable battery that will give you up to 20 hours of continuous use. It can be connected to AC power through its AC adapter, or to an external battery or laptop through its USB charging port.

The Med-Fit model BAL-906ª is a very complete rechargeable electrostimulation device of premium quality that has an incredible function of 4 individual channels that will give you a great coverage and a perfect effectiveness when applying different electrical massages simultaneously. It also has a large LCD screen that makes it especially easy to operate, so you can program your sessions with great ease.

It has 24 clinically proven massage programs, which are divided into 12 TENS therapy programs and 12 muscle stimulation training modes. It has a long-life rechargeable lithium battery that will give you a great autonomy of several hours of continuous use, eliminating the extra cost of buying replacement cylindrical batteries.

This electric massage unit provided by iReliev is one of the most versatile and, at the same time, simplest electrostimulation machines you can find, with 8 predefined modes of use 25 adjustable intensity levels, you can program it to fit your body's needs. Additionally, its dual channel function allows you to program more than one massage mode simultaneously to treat multiple areas of the body.

It has an interesting session timer function that allows you to adjust the duration of each therapy up to a maximum of 60 minutes. Its compact size allows it to be carried in your pocket, so you can take it with you from home to work, or on the road, and use it whenever you need it.

How to use EMS to strengthen muscles and prevent torn meniscus?

Its effect is best highlighted when applied on the knee muscles in late stages of the recovery process, in order to minimize the risk of the impulses generating a painful sensation in the patient. Below, we will teach you what you need to know to apply optimal EMS therapy.

Where to place the electrodes?

The positioning of the electrodes for meniscus training should surround the knee joint to properly stimulate the muscle groups that mobilize and stabilize the joint, so the correct positions are:

• Vastus medialis muscle
• Rectus femoris muscle, on the border with vastus lateralis
• Along the tibialis anterior muscle

What intensity to use?

Muscle strengthening of the groups surrounding the knee requires a medium intensity for optimal tissue development, generating a better contraction on the joint and thus improving its stability.

For this, the intensity varies between 70 and 90 Hz with periods of 200 microseconds, thus promoting activity in the muscle and the creation of muscle fibers that increase its density, strength and endurance.

Best EMS machines to avoid meniscus injuries

Most muscle EMS machines have the necessary settings to strengthen knee muscles and improve their function, as well as endurance. However, it is always useful to know the most commonly used devices for strengthening this muscle group. Among these we can highlight:

The Compex brand offers one of its best electrostimulation machines: the Compex Performance 3.0, a muscle electrostimulator with TENS and EMS operation that facilitates physical recovery after exercise, in the same way that it can stimulate muscle growth through its high frequency electrical impulses, which generate contractions that activate muscle fibers.

It has a powerful rechargeable lithium battery that gives it an autonomy of up to 8 continuous hours, and 6 programs of use that are divided into 1 warm-up program, 3 programs for increasing output, 1 recovery program and 1 TENS program. It is one of the most complete options to improve physical performance and recovery.

The QuadStim brand electro stimulator is an incredibly versatile electrotherapy machine that combines the benefits of TENS currents and EMS electrostimulation, allowing you to treat a wide range of ailments while applying high-intensity electrical impulses to increase muscle fiber development and build muscle strength.

It has 8 customizable modes of use, of which 5 apply TENS current and 3 apply EMS current. It also has different levels of intensity, frequency and pulse radius, making it one of the most versatile electrostimulation machines on the market.

The iReliev electrostimulator is one of the most practical and complete options for the treatment of ailments and physical conditioning, since it combines in its compact size the most advanced TENS and EMS technology, making it the number one option for the relief of ailments of any kind, thanks to the 14 predefined treatment programs available.

The compact size of the device makes it incredibly practical and easy to carry, so you can use it anywhere you like quickly and discreetly. It is FDA approved, so it is completely safe to use, and its LCD screen gives you a full display of all settings so you can easily adjust your requirements.

The Conree electrostimulation machine was created for one specific use: symptomatic relief of chronic pain and temporary relief of aches and pains associated with exhaustion and muscle injuries in the arms, shoulders, neck, back, waist and legs due to strain caused by exercise or heavy work.

It offers a professional solution through its 12 massage modalities with 30 intensity levels, which you can easily adjust to adapt the therapy to your needs. Additionally, its dual channel function allows you to apply different modalities on the A and B channels of the stimulator, allowing you to treat two different areas of the body, or even two different people, simultaneously.

The Laspi brand of products has an electrostimulation machine designed to maximize the results of your workouts through a complete massage therapy provided by TENS and EMS technologies, which will allow you to combat acute and chronic ailments, as well as increase the results of your exercises by stimulating muscle growth.

It has a function of 4 individual channels that will allow you to apply different massage programs in various areas of the body, in addition to 3 programs that together give you more than 20 options between TENS, EMS and recovery massages, 40 levels of intensity and time control function that will allow you to define the duration of each session.

Video: How to place electrodes pads on the knee?

Electrodes for knee

More types of EMS stimulators and TENS machines you should know about

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

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

How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? Placement of electrode pads

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

How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for Erectile Dysfunction (ED)? Placement of electrode pads

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

How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for foot neuropathy & polyneuropathy? Placement of electrode pads

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

How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for meniscus tear recovery? Placement of electrode pads

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

How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for muscle pain, knots & tightness? Placement of electrode pads

How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for muscle soreness (DOMS)? Placement of electrode pads

How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for muscle spasm & cramps? Placement of electrode pads

How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for nerve damage and pain? Placement of electrode pads

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

How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for rotator cuff tears recovery? Placement of electrode pads

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

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

How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for tennis & golfer's elbow? Placement of electrode pads

How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for TMJ, bruxism & jaw pain? Placement of electrode pads

What is a meniscus tear and what are the causes?

A meniscus tear is an injury that affects the cartilage in the knee that functions as a shock absorption system in the knee. This cartilage forms a cushion between the bones that serves to absorb shock and aid in lubricating the knee.

Its main causes can be listed as follows:

• Aggressive pivoting
• Sudden turns
• Excessive pressure
• Overload
• Trauma
• Cartilage degeneration

Meniscal tears are very common injuries in sports involving running and jumping, such as soccer or basketball, as well as in the elderly. Among the main risk factors that increase the likelihood of meniscal tears we can highlight:

• High-intensity physical activity: contact sports such as soccer or sports that involve a lot of pivoting of the knees, such as basketball, can cause meniscal tears.
• Aging: over time, knee cartilage naturally wears down, increasing the risk of injury.
• Obesity: the extra weight increases the pressure applied to the knees, eroding the cartilage and increasing its rate of wear.

What are the most common types of meniscus injury?

Meniscal tears or tears are very common injuries in people who play contact sports and in older people. They can occur in many ways and this variety dictates to some extent the procedure by which the injury should be treated.

The most common forms of meniscal tears are:

• Longitudinal tears: these are tears aligned with the circumferential fibers of the meniscus, parallel to its outer surface.
• Horizontal tear: very frequent form of rupture in older people, it consists of a tear that extends from the internal face of the meniscus to the intrameniscal substance.
• Radial tear: it is a vertical fracture that covers the entire junction between the posterior and middle thirds of the meniscus, sometimes extending to the periphery and completely severing the cartilage. It is caused by trauma and is very common in physically active patients.
• Oblique tear: it is a vertical tear that occurs between the posterior and medial portions of the cartilage.
• Pedicle tear: these are fragments of meniscus that can move to other positions within the joint, generating a particularly intense sensation of pain for the patient.

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

Forms of electrotherapy are widely used within the field of physical therapy and fitness, especially Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Electro Muscle Stimulation (EMS) modalities. However, it is necessary to be able to distinguish the uses and effects of each of these forms of therapy in order to apply them optimally.

TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a form of physical therapy aimed at the treatment of symptoms caused by disorders and trauma such as those that can lead to meniscal tears, being identified with the following properties:

• It applies low intensity electric currents, variable between 1 and 250 Hz.
• Its effect is applied to the articular branches of the femoral nerve, as well as to the branches of the tibial and peroneal nerves, reducing the effect of the lesion on them.
• It works as a method to relieve the pain caused by the meniscus tear, however it is not a method to cure the injury.
• It works by numbing the nerve endings in the affected area, causing the release of endorphins and preventing electrical pain signals from reaching the brain from the affected area.

Unlike TENS, EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) has effects more focused on increasing muscle strength, endurance and elasticity through contractions caused by electrical impulses.

We can recognize EMS therapy by the following characteristics:

• The minimum frequency of its electrical impulses is 70 Hz, and can reach a maximum of 150 Hz.
• Its effect is applied mainly on muscle tissue, creating contractions to increase fiber production.
• It can be applied to certain injuries in its lower frequencies, informing muscle management.
• It is designed as a method to condition and rehabilitate muscles, it is not intended to eliminate the sensation of pain.

Thus, we can conclude that both methods have merit in the treatment of meniscal tears, although the field of action of each therapy must be taken into account in order to apply it correctly and obtain the best results.

The functionality of TENS units is based on its ability to numb the articular sensory branches of the femoral, tibial and peroneal nerves, greatly minimizing the effect of pain caused by the joint and favoring the production of endorphins.

It should be emphasized that in an injury of this type, the effect of TENS therapy is limited to treating the pain caused by the cartilage tear, so the treatment of the injury itself should be carried out by a specialist.

For its part, the effectiveness of EMS therapy can be noted in more advanced stages of the meniscus tear healing process, thanks to the fact that its electrical impulses create a muscle massage that reduces inflammation, promotes optimal contraction of the muscles in the knee and reduces pain to a certain extent. It is necessary to emphasize the fact that it should only be applied in advanced stages of the rehabilitation process and at low frequencies, in order not to overstimulate the nerves and generate more pain in the patient.

Contraindications in the use of electrodes and electrotherapy