Back pain can affect any part of the back. It is often divided into two areas
of concern lower
and upper back Pain.
The usual cause of back pain is muscle strain but it can also originate
from ligament, tendon or vertabrae damage, posture, feet positioning,
poor muscle tone, muscle tension or spasm, sprains, and joint problems.
Both Upper and Lower back pain are often described in three categories. Acute
when it has lated less than 6 weeks, Sub-acute if it has lasted between 6 - 12
weeks and chronic if it has lasted longer than 12 weeks.
back pain: does TENS work?
Naturally prevention is better than a cure. One should attempt to improve posture,
keep fit and avoid carrying heavy loads. Treatments often include
drugs and osteopathy. However, TENSpain relief can provide
a useful pain killing alternative or complementary form of relief.
TENSunits or Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve
Stimulation is a non-invasive, drug-free method of relief. It is ideal
for the treatment of backpain. Pads are placed on or near the area
of pain. TENS uses soothing pulses that are sent via the pads through
the skin and along the nerve fibres. The pulses suppress pain signals
to the brain. TENS also encourages the body to produce higher levels
of its own natural pain killing chemicals called Endorphins and Encephalins.
In many cases, stimulation will greatly reduce or eliminate pain.
Relief may continue for several hours after the unit has been switched
off.