TENS pad placement for headaches
What are the causes of headaches?
There are different types of headache disorders:
- Cluster headaches: They refer to a pain that is one-sided and stabbing. The headache attacks can last between 15 minutes and three hours.
- Migraine: pounding or throbbing pain is usually a sign of a migraine. Nausea or visual disturbances may also occur. Many sufferers also complain of sensitivity to noise and light. Migraine attacks can be triggered by stress, loud music, bright lights or alcohol.
- Tension headaches: Tension headaches occur on both sides and are dull and pressing.
TENS units and electrodes recommendations
How a TENS machine can help you with headaches
A TENS machine 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 provides a targeted massage and an increase in blood circulation [2] for tense muscles. In the case of primary headaches, pain-inhibiting messenger substances (endorphins) can be released [3] through a specific TENS application, pain stimuli can be blocked and thus painkillers and medication can be reduced.
The correct use of TENS for headaches
A TENS machine with at least two channels can relieve headache effectively. Place the four 5x5 electrode pads on your back as shown in the picture. You can also use our neck electrode pad, which is specially developed for the application on the neck as an alternative.
The advantages of TENS treatment
Please note
The current strength should be set 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 is also useful to change the programs every now and then.
TENS units and electrodes recommendations
Video instruction for the treatment of headaches with TENS
The optimal TENS machine for your application - recommendation of the program
For TENS EMS machines from axion, we recommend the following programs for pain therapy
TENS EMS Combo Machine STIM-PRO X9
The program P07 are generally used here.
To the device: TENS EMS Combo Machine STIM-PRO X9
TENS Machine STIM-PRO T-400
The program P07 are generally used here.
To the device: TENS Machine STIM-PRO T-400
TENS Machine STIM-PRO COMFORT
The program P02 is generally used here.
To the device: TENS Machine STIM-PRO COMFORT
Our Bestseller TENS EMS combo machine STIM-PRO X9
Combination of TENS and thermotherapy
With thermotherapy you can increase the effect of your TENS treatment against headaches. You can distinguish heat therapy from cold therapy.
Heat therapy: Promotes blood flow and relax the muscles. Is suited for chronic diseases like arthrosis or muscular tensions.
Cold therapy: Is suited for quick measures against injuries or joint inflammation to alleviate pain.
The TENS world of axion
We will gladly advise you
You still have questions about the correct application for your pain? Our expert advisors are there for you!
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Studies and scientific sources
[1] Bachmann, J. & Pothmann, R. (2010). TENS. Transkutane elektrische Nervenstimulation in der Schmerztherapie (4. Aufl.). Karl F. Haug Verlag.
[2] 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
[3] 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
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