TENS application for migraines

Woman holds her temples and has her eyes closed. She suffers from a migraine and has a headache.

There are numerous different forms of treatment against migraine attacks, one of which is less well known is electrotherapy with a TENS device. The use of TENS stimulation current therapy can be an effective, pain-relieving solution for the treatment of migraines[1].

Low-intensity electrical impulses are generated by the TENS device and transmitted to the nerve fibers in the pain zone. The electrical stimulation of the nerves has an immediate effect. The stimulation current blocks the transmission of the pain signal to the brain and headaches are relieved. This mechanism of action, generated by a current of high frequency and low intensity, is suitable for acute and local pain. It is therefore particularly suitable for the treatment of migraine headaches. Furthermore, with a stimulation current device, the body can be stimulated to release endorphins[2] and also promote blood circulation[3].

TENS electrode placement for migraines

For use with migraines, we recommend using the small, round electrodes with a diameter of 3 cm. Attach the electrodes as shown.

Note: When using electrotherapy for headaches, it is recommended to use the stimulator at the first sign of migraine.

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

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 migraines?

Migraine is a common type of headache - in Germany alone it is estimated that up to 18 million sufferers[4]. It is characterized by intense headaches, nausea, hypersensitivity to external stimuli and, in some cases, even visual disturbances. Migraines are more painful than other types of headaches, can recur at regular intervals and therefore often have an impact on the everyday life of those affected.

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] Allais G, De Lorenzo C, Quirico PE, Lupi G, Airola G, Mana O & Benedetto C (2003). Non-pharmacological approaches to chronic headaches: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, laser therapy and acupuncture in transformed migraine treatment. Neurological Sciences, 24(S2), s138-s142. https://doi.org/10.1007/s100720300062

[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 [4] Newsenselab GmbH. (2020, June 3). migraines at work M-sense. https://www.m-sense.de/blog/migraene-im-job

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