United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

The extent of my nerve damage has not been determined, hopefully, after my EMG tomorrow I will know something. My brother in law has a TENS unit he is willing to give me for my pain. He also says that the TENS unit might help in my recovery of muscles that are not functioning. I would be very appreciative for any information about the use of the TENS unit...Thank you

Hey Fred... I used a TENS unit in the begining and it did NOT help with my pai at all! I have heard some people getting relief but not all! Again this injury is soo dofferent from person to person. I would check with a doctor or physio before using the unit! TENS is for pain. NMES is for muscle stimulation. Make sure you understand which you are using. GOod luck and let us know how you get on.

COurt

my use of the tens unit was a disaster. I thought I was getting relief until i turned off the unit and had more pain than when I started. It actually aggravated the nerves.

Thats funny, Courtney, the doctors at Mayo had me buy my TENS to keep my muscle alive before my muscle transfer, it wasn't for pain at all. In fact it worked my muscles so much the pain was there in full force. I agress Bellis, it totally aggravated my pain.
Kath in Chicago

I've used a tens unit fo years, for a lower back problem. My therapist told me to use it for my tbpi, and I couldn't be happier! It's not going to get rid of the pain, but; 1) It can distract you from pain and 2) It stimulates and demands more blood flow to the area. If you have a hand that hurts as bad as mine, put one pad on top of the hand, right above the wrist, having the wire at a 45 degree angle. The other can be placed underneath, at the wrist. Doing so can catch the 2 nerves coming into the hand, and placing the other where you take your pulse, can distribute the electricity throughout the hand. For the shoulder, place the pads one towards the back, but at the side, and the other where thr bicept and tricept meet. Obviously, I've used them alot and have reached some level of success. I would NEVER say that it will make the pain all go away, but it can't hurt to try. If you have another question reguarding the tens, please email me.

Rob