I Finally Found Relief Without Pills or Office Visits
(TENS) Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit was the phrase I typed into my internet search at 2 in the morning. Why? Because I woke up with my lower feeling like it was tied in knots. This wasn’t the first time I had one of those restless nights. I run a small design studio, workout at least three days a week, and coach youth soccer on the weekends. It keeps me happy, but it has been really taking a toll on my body. I wanted control over my body again and I can’t stand taking pills. I was looking for something simple and that didn’t take a big chunk out of my schedule. A transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit sounds like it would be an overly complicated device, but it was exactly what I was looking for.
The first session with the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit, Ultima 3200, was easy. I had just finished with dinner and was relaxing on the couch. I placed the pads so that they were positioned around my pain point. I turned it on and brought the intensity up slowly. I felt a slight tingle at first then it gradually got stronger. I settled on a position that was strong enough to be effective but not unbearable. Within minutes, the tension in my back started to fade. I felt good enough to walk to my desk and finish this draft I had been avoiding all week. That’s when I knew I was onto something with this transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit.
I wanted to keep it going so I started to log my sessions. My unit came with diagrams on how to place the pads for specific body parts, but I created my own sketch book. I noted which programs helped after soccer drills at the field versus long days at my desk sketching designs. After a while, I came up with my own routines that helped me throughout the day. I’d get in a short session with the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit before my workouts and I’d make it through without compromising my form. Before game days, I extend my sessions, and it would allow me to focus more on the game and less on my pain. A transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit is no magic pill but its effective.
The best thing about it is that I can use it anywhere. The TENS stimulation unit I use is compact, so I took it to a conference and ran a ten minute session between meetings. I felt the difference when I had to get to present. My back wasn’t throbbing, so I was able to concentrate on my presentation. I bought a second set of pads for the office and at home, so the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit is always there when I need it. This makes it easier for me to stay consistent.
My friends always ask me what it is. When I tell them they always give me this bewildered look. I tell them that the name might sound complicated but its easy to use and it really works. The transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit interrupts nerve signals that go to your brain. This is what allows your muscles to relax. It also allows me to use it on specific body parts. Unlike most pain medication that only helps with general pain. When I have a long photo shoot my back usually tightens up. I put the pads on and just let the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit do its thing. After that, I’m able to relax.
I’m still using it faithfully months later. Before I do any strength training, I use it. I don’t even give stiffness a chance to build up. My shoulders tend to get real heavy after long shoots. I always make sure I have a session with my transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit before and after. I finally found something that gives me a reliable way to take control of my body without taking a big chunk of my time.