TENS, which stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation was first introduced in the 1970's.  This TENS unit was the first of its design to be portable and patient-wearable.  It was originally intended for the testing of electrical stimulation tolerance in chronic pain patients before implantation of electrodes in the spinal cord dorsal column.  So many of the patients got so much relief from the TENS unit itself that they never returned for the implant!  After this unexpected success, several companies began manufacturing TENS units and found even more applications for this device, such as helping epilepsy, Parkinson's disease and other disorders of the nervous system.

While EMS devices (Electronic Muscle Stimulation) and TENS units both use electrical stimulation and look very similar, they have different purposes; EMS is for stimulating muscles, and TENS is for blocking pain, specifically by stimulating nerves.  Some of these electrical devices actually combine both EMS and TENS therapies in one unit, making the combination product the best choice for people who need or want both therapies.

A wonderful example of combining both EMS and TENS is the Sys Stim 206 Muscle Stimulator available from Rehabmart. This comprehensive product is a one-channel neuromuscular stimulator that features four different waveforms in a very light-weight package.  The narrow pulse is suited for TENS, while the wide and AC pulses can be used for EMS. The membrane entry panel and LED Displays simplify treatment control, while indicating output intensity, time remaining and all of the pertinent information that the operator needs to know in an easy-to-read format.  

                                                      

The SysStim 206 provides pulse frequency control, so that the user can vary the repetition of pulses from 1 to 83 pps, and intensity control to allow the user to vary the output voltage during treatment.  The treatment mode selectors include four preset waveforms plus "Surge" and "Reverse Polarity", which enables the operator to choose the optimum waveform for each treatment and muscle group.

Another great combination TENS-EMS product from Rehabmart is the BioStim Digital NMS Muscle Stimulator.  This device has five pre-programmed protocols to ensure ease of use.  Its compact design and low weight (only 8 ounces, including the carrying case!) offers extreme portability for even the weakest patient.  This unit also offers three types of stimulation; continuous, cycled or reciprocating and has adjustable pulse rate and pulse width.  

                                                 

It also includes a "patient lock system", which, when activated, allows parameters to be set and locked preventing the patient from changing the settings. The BioStim Digital NMS Muscle Stimulator has two waveforms to choose from, asymmetrical or symmetrical biphasic square waves which make it usable as an EMS device and/or as a TENS unit.

For those interested in just the TENS units, check out the Deluxe Dual Channel TENS Horizontal Design available from Rehabmart.  This device has a convenient "flip down" control panel and battery cover which reduces wear, tear and damage.  Convenience of use includes dual isolated channels, adjustable pulse frequency and width, and three different waveforms and delivery patterns. 

                                   

The horizontal design provides a much improved ergonomic fit on the belt and a plastic belt clip is included.  This unit also features a new and improved lead wire connector that will not disengage from the TENS unit itself.

The Deluxe TENS Unit Dual Channel 3 Modes is another good TENS device from Rehabmart.  This pain relieving stimulator offers a "burst" mode and "modulation" mode. The burst mode is 2 bursts per second, 7 pulses per burst with a 100Hz intraburst rate and adjustable pulse width.  

                                                                                   

The modulation mode contains a gradual pulse rise and fall time, cycling on 4 seconds along with adjustable pulse width and frequency.  The pulse amplitude range is 0-80 mA, the pulse rate range is 2-120 Hz and the pulse width range is 40-260 usec.   This product also comes complete with a new and improved carrying case, 4 electrodes, 2 sets of lead wires, an operation manual and even includes the 9Volt rechargeable battery!

We've come a long way from standing on electric fish for pain relief , and these state-of-the-art EMS and TENS devices from Rehabmart offer the best from this fascinating field of electrical therapeutic research.  These units are so lightweight and easy to use, you'll forget you're wearing them...until you realize you are pain-free, of course!

To see more TENS units, go to the TENS Units page.