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How to use a TENS units & EMS machines for pelvic floor & urinary incontinence? Placement of electrode pads

The pelvic floor is a group of tissues of various types that form a kind of hammock on which the pelvic organs rest, and like most muscles, can be strengthened or weakened by various causes, causing difficulty urinating and a feeling of heaviness, among other sensations.

In these cases, it is necessary to take measures to develop and strengthen the pelvic floor tissue in order to avoid these problems. This is where treatments such as TENS and EMS electrotherapy come in. So we will teach you everything you need to know about pelvic floor weakness and how to use electrotherapy to strengthen these tissues.

How to use EMS to strengthen the pelvic muscles?

The application of moderate frequencies during EMS therapy helps to strengthen the pelvic floor, providing a number of health and quality of life benefits for both male and female patients.

Benefits

This musculature provides support to a large number of organs, which require stability to maintain their optimal positions and function properly. It is therefore necessary to maintain the strength of the pelvic floor, in addition to providing benefits such as:

  • Prevent urinary incontinence
  • Improve sexual performance
  • Improves body posture
  • Protects the body from high-impact sports
  • Promotes natural childbirth

What intensity to use?

Because the pelvic floor muscles are highly innervated by the sympathetic nerve chain, it is a very sensitive area in which the intensity of electrical impulses, in order to generate a muscle contraction that does not produce pain sensation.

For this, it is necessary to have a low intensity EMS device, which generates pulses with a variable intensity between 3 Hz and 40 Hz in pulses of between 200 and 250 microseconds.

Best electrostimulation devices for the pelvic floor

We now present you with a list of the best electrostimulation devices you can use to improve urinary incontinence and strengthen the pelvic floor that you can choose from:

Omega - Wireless TENS muscle stimulator with 6 modes remote control and USB charger
  • Type: TENS
  • Channels: -
  • Modes/Programs: 6 Modes
  • Intensity: 20 Levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium
  • Electrodes: 6 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: Not specified
  • Reduces pain symptoms
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • Wireless electrodes
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Portable and small size
  • Does not specify size and weight
  • Battery life not specified
  • Not suitable for muscle hypertrophy
The Omega brand presents what is, to date, one of the most complete and ergonomic wireless muscle electrostimulation devices on the market. This is the Omega Wireless TENS unit, which features state-of-the-art TENS technology for pain relief, applied to almost any part of the body thanks to its ergonomic and adaptable design.

It has 6 modes of use and 20 levels of intensity, which can be adapted to any part of the body according to the intensity of the pain and the size of the treated area. It does not require the use of an application or cables to work, as its electrodes are automatically connected to the remote control of the device, which has a touch screen that allows you to visualise and control the modes of use in a very simple way.

Acculove - dua channel TENS/EMS massager with 5 intensity levels and 4 electrode pads for pain relief
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: 2
  • Modes/Programs: 35 Programs
  • Intensity: 50 Levels
  • Wireless: No
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: 3 AAA batteries included
  • Electrodes: 4 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: Not specified
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • TENS+EMS Combo
  • Portable and small size
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Includes user manual
  • Does not specify size and weight
  • No heat therapy
  • Powered by AAA batteries
The Acculove brand of physical therapy products provides its users with a professional quality electric massage unit that combines the best of TENS and EMS electrotherapy to create the most complete massage experience, all available in an incredibly compact machine that you can take anywhere you want and use at any time.

This device is powered by 3 AAA batteries that are included in the package. It does not require frequent changes or recharging, due to its efficient power consumption. Additionally, it has a dual channel function, so you can work different parts of the body simultaneously as required.

Hollywog - WiTouch Pro wireless and portable TENS unit with adhesive pads included
  • Type: TENS
  • Channels: -
  • Modes/Programs: 4 Programs
  • Intensity: 15 Levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat therapy: No
  • Battery: 2 AAA Batteries
  • Electrodes: 6 Pads
  • Display: No display
  • Size: 8.86" x 5.39" x 1.77" - 0.92 lbs
  • Control from mobile app
  • Reduces pain symptoms
  • Includes user manual
  • Improves joint mobility
  • Portable and small size
  • No screen included
  • Few types of programs
  • Not suitable for muscle hypertrophy
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.

IRELIEV - DUAL CHANNEL TENSION PAIN RELIEF MASSAGER SYSTEM WITH 8 MASSAGE MODES
  • Type: TENS
  • Channels: Dual
  • Modes/Programs: 8 Modes
  • Intensity: 25 Levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: 3 AAA Batteries
  • Electrodes: 4 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: 2.14" x 5.5" x 7.08" - 0.33 lbs
  • Includes carrying bag
  • Improves joint mobility
  • Portable and small size
  • Reduces pain symptoms
  • Good quality
  • Few types of programs
  • Not suitable for muscle hypertrophy
  • Battery operated
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.

Easy@Home - Compact and rechargeable wireless TENS & EMS unit for pain relief therapy
  • Type: Combo
  • Channels: -
  • Modes/Programs: 6 Programs
  • Intensity: 20 Levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium
  • Electrodes: 2 Pads
  • Display: No display
  • Size: 2.0" x 1.7" x 0.5" - 0.04 lb
  • TENS+EMS Combo
  • Accelerates recovery from sports injuries
  • Portable and small size
  • Improves joint mobility
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Does not specify battery life
  • Display not included
  • Non-universal electrode replacements
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.

iReliev - Compact & rechargeable wireless mini TENS for specified for pain relief
  • Type: TENS
  • Channels: -
  • Modes/Programs: Unspecified
  • Intensity: Not specified
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium
  • Electrodes: 2 Pads
  • Display: No Display
  • Size: 1.42" x 3.27" x 6.22" - 0.10 lbs
  • Reduces pain symptoms
  • Includes user manual
  • Portable and small size
  • Wireless electrodes
  • Rechargeable battery
  • No battery life specified
  • No intensity levels specified
  • No display included
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.

TENS MAKER - Wireless TENS muscle stimulator for lower back and neck pain relief
  • Type: TENS
  • Channels: -
  • Modes/Programs: 20 Modes
  • Intensity: 15 Levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: No
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium
  • Electrodes: 4 Pads
  • Display: No display
  • Size: Not specified
  • Wireless electrodes
  • Reduces pain symptoms
  • Includes carrying bag
  • Includes user manual
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Does not specify measurements and weight
  • Not suitable for muscle hypertrophy
  • Battery life not specified
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.

TechCare Massager - TENS snap-on massage belt with 2 silicone electrodes
  • No. of Programs: Not specified
  • Material: Silicone
  • Power Supply: Not specified
  • Size: One Size
  • Heat Effect: Not specified
  • Reduces pain symptoms
  • Improves joint mobility
  • Improves blood circulation
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Portable and small size
  • No materials specified
  • One size fits all
The Techcare massager belt features cutting-edge technology in the field of electrostimulation for fat loss and abdominal muscle toning. It is compatible with the best TENS and EMS units on the market, and is one of the most sought after options for lower back pain relief as well as abdominal definition.

The package includes only the electro massage garment, so you will need a TENS or EMS electrotherapy unit to use it. Its compatibility with both types of electrotherapy makes it the ideal choice for both fitness and treatment of various ailments.

Compex - TENS & EMS belt with heat therapy for back pain relief with 8 modes and 2 levels
  • No. of Programs: 8 Modes
  • Material: Not specified
  • Power Source: Rechargeable lithium battery
  • Size: L/XL
  • Heat Effect: Yes
  • TENS+EMS Combo
  • With heat therapy
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Portable and small size
  • Improves blood circulation
  • No material specified
  • Battery life not specified
  • Does not include carrying bag
This device is one of the best creations of the COMPEX brand of products. It is an electrotherapy belt ideal for the treatment of ailments and physical conditioning thanks to the application of TENS or EMS electrostimulation, which also includes the thermotherapy function.

The belt does not require connection to operate, which makes it portable and practical, in addition to having a low-profile design for use at any time. It is powered by a lithium battery and has 8 modes of use that cover a wide range of intensities.

AUVON - Dual channel TENS unit with 20 modes and 8 electrode pads of different sizes
  • Type: TENS
  • Channels: Dual
  • Modes/Programs: 20 Modes
  • Intensity: 20 Levels
  • Wireless: Yes
  • Heat Therapy: Yes
  • Battery: Rechargeable Lithium (up to 10 hours)
  • Electrodes: 8 Pads
  • Display: Digital
  • Size: 4.12" x 2.24" x 0.43" - 1.54 lbs
  • Reduces pain symptoms
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Includes user manual
  • Portable and small size
  • Includes carrying bag
  • Not for muscle hypertrophy
  • No heat therapy
  • No touch screen included
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.

Video: How to place electrodes pads to reduce pelvic weakness?

Electrodes for pelvic floor

Electrodes for pelvic floor
Electrodes for pelvic floor
Electrodes for pelvic floor

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

What are the causes of pelvic weakness?

Pelvic floor weakness is a problem that mainly affects women, since their physiognomy makes them more vulnerable to suffer from this condition, in addition to the fact that its main causes affect them directly, although in certain cases it can also affect men.

The main causes of pelvic floor dysfunction are the following:

  • Pregnancy and childbirth: the tension caused in the pelvic muscles during childbirth often generates weakness once the process is over.
  • Obesity: the constant excess of tension caused by overweight can generate weakness in the pelvic floor.
  • Radiation treatments: some radiation treatments destroy healthy cells, causing pelvic floor problems ranging from urinary incontinence to fertility problems.
  • Surgery: depending on how invasive the procedure is, the recovery period can lead to considerable pelvic muscle weakness.
  • Aging: in conjunction with many muscle groups, as you age, the pelvic floor muscles progressively lose strength.
  • Overload: overexertion caused by heavy lifting or other physically demanding activities can generate problems in the pelvic floor causing incontinence problems and other symptoms.

What is electrotherapy and how can it help control urinary incontinence?

Electrotherapy is a physiotherapeutic method that can be oriented to multiple purposes depending on the method of application. It is useful both for the strengthening of muscular tissues and for the treatment of ailments caused by different origins.

The treatment of urinary incontinence by means of TENS and EMS electrotherapy techniques works in a similar way, although it is necessary to highlight the distinctions between both treatments and their effects on the bladder and pelvic organs, in order to apply an optimal therapy.

TENS

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a method of physiotherapy aimed at treating pain caused by various types of trauma or disease, in addition to promoting the release of endorphins and relaxation of superficial tissues.

Its usefulness for the treatment of urinary incontinence lies in its ability to inhibit the electrical impulses of the peripheral nerves that coordinate the contractions of the bladder, sphincter and pelvic floor to achieve the micturition reflex. This reflex can be overridden by direct interruption of impulses in preganglionic efferent neurons.

EMS

EMS, or Electro Muscle Stimulation, serves as a form of training and physical therapy that uses medium to high intensity currents with the goal of creating contractions in muscle tissue that increase its resistance and elasticity, substantially strengthening the affected area.

The benefit of pelvic floor muscle training can be seen in the reduction of urinary incontinence problems, as well as in the alleviation of conditions such as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. The effect of EMS electrical impulses is focused on the puborectalis, pubococcygeus and iliococcygeus muscles.

Why should you strengthen your pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor is a muscle group that supports a large number of organs, so its resistance and tone is of great importance, since it helps prevent a large number of health problems.

The health of the pelvic floor helps to avoid incontinence problems, bladder and rectal prolapse and sexual dysfunction problems, among others, allowing us to enjoy a better quality of life and avoid situations where incontinence can play against us.

Contraindications for the use of electrodes and electrotherapy

Contraindications for electrode placement

The placement of the electrodes is of utmost importance in electrotherapy, whether TENS or EMS, so here are some things to keep in mind before starting a session:

  • Symmetrical placement: the negative and positive poles of each electrode should be connected symmetrically. That is to say, if we use two pads, we should use one positive and one negative pole on each one, while if we use four, the equivalence should be two positive and two negative.
  • Do not cross the electrodes: you cannot use one electrode in the lower train and another in the upper train and more importantly, never cross the electrodes from the left side to the right side of the body and vice versa, since the current path can negatively affect the patient's health. For this reason it is always recommended to use the electrodes in a localized way.
  • Motor point: at least one of the electrodes, whether positive or negative, must be positioned over the motor point, which is the point where the greatest force is achieved in the muscle in question.
  • Control the intensity: the size of the muscle must be taken into account when choosing the intensity of the current, since the less volume and size the muscle has, the lower the tolerated intensity will be.
  • Be careful with the skin: EMS or TENS should not be used on recently depilated areas since the pores will be open and this could generate skin sensitivity. Do not use on irritated or reddened areas, open wounds or recent scars.

Contraindications for the use of electrostimulation

Being a therapy that applies currents to the body, it cannot be used for all conditions, therefore its use should be avoided in cases where the user suffers from the following conditions:

  • Epilepsy.
  • Cardiac pacemakers.
  • Circulation disorders and problems.
  • Abdominal or inguinal hernias.
  • Neurological disturbances.
  • Tendency to bleed.
  • Skin irritation, burns or wounds.
  • Diseases that affect muscle metabolism, such as diabetes.
  • Metabolic syndrome (diabetes, hypertension and obesity).
  • High uric acid levels.
  • Metabolic disorders and metabolic pathologies.
  • Inflammatory pathologies.

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