TENS application for headaches

Woman sits at the table and has a headache. These can be alleviated with a TENS device.

A TENS device can relieve the symptoms of different types of headaches. Regardless of whether it is a headache caused by tension in the cervical spine and shoulders[1] or other headache disorders. The stimulation current ensures a targeted massage and an increase in blood circulation in tense muscles.

In the case of primary headaches, pain-inhibiting messenger substances, the so-called endorphins[2], can be released through a specifically adjusted TENS application. In addition, the electrical impulses prevent the nerves from transmitting the pain signal to the brain. In these two ways, pain is relieved without the use of painkillers and medication. The TENS treatment also promotes blood circulation[3].

TENS electrode placement for headaches

A TENS device with at least two channels can relieve your headaches particularly effectively. Attach the four 5x5 cm electrodes as shown. Alternatively, you can also use our neck electrode, which adapts very well to the neck area thanks to the specially developed fit.

Buy the appropriate electrode now

  • This guide is for orientation purposes and does not replace the supervision of a doctor or therapist. Please follow the warnings and safety instructions of your device. Changes and errors are possible.

  • Number inside the circle: Channel number

    Circle color: Red = Electrode 1, Black = Electrode 2

The recommended programs for axion TENS devices

*The STIM-PRO Eco is a manual TENS device. If you have not received parameter settings from your therapist, please use a frequency range between 70 and 120 Hz (burst mode 2 Hz) and a pulse width range between 150 µs and 200 µs.

Please note when using TENS:

The intensity should be adjusted so that it is felt as a pleasant tingling sensation. The duration of the application should be approx. 40 minutes in order to be able to achieve a lasting reduction in pain. It also makes sense to switch programs every now and then.

What causes headaches?

The advantages of pain treatment with TENS

  • From everywhere

    You can use TENS therapy anywhere. It doesn't matter whether you're sitting comfortably on the sofa or in the office.

  • Drug free

    TENS pain therapy is an alternative to drug pain treatment

  • At any time

    You can use TENS flexibly and at any time. Success can already be achieved after the first treatment

  • Free of side effects

    When used correctly, pain treatment with TENS has practically no side effects

Studies and scientific sources

[1] Bachmann, J. & Pothmann, R. (2010).TENS. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in pain management (4th ed.). Karl F. Haug Verlag.

[2] Ortu, E., Pietropaoli, D., Mazzei, G., Cattaneo, R., Giannoni, M., & Monaco, A. (2015). TENS effects on salivary stress markers: A pilot study. International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology, 114-118. https://doi.org/10.1177/0394632015572072

[3] Cramp, Gilsenan, Lowe & Walsh. (2000). The effect of high- and low-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation upon cutaneous blood flow and skin temperature in healthy subjects. Clinical Physiology, 20(2), 150-157. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2281.2000.00240.x

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