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Physiotherapy vocabulary · Electrotherapy and Physical Agents

TENS

Meaning in physiotherapy, with examples

/tɛnz/abbreviationCommon term

In physiotherapy, TENS means: Short for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation: a small battery-powered device that sends mild electrical pulses through pads on the skin to reduce pain.

In Turkish: TENS, transkutanöz elektriksel sinir stimülasyonu

How it is used

Pronounced as one word, 'tens'. Physiotherapists set the frequency and intensity, place the pads and teach patients how to use a TENS machine at home. Patients describe the feeling as tingling or buzzing. It is also widely used for pain during labour.

Example sentences

  1. Turn the TENS up until you feel a strong but comfortable tingling.

  2. She uses a TENS machine at home for her chronic back pain.

Common collocations

  • TENS machine
  • TENS unit
  • TENS pads
  • apply TENS
  • electrotherapyTreatment that uses electrical energy or electrically powered devices, such as electrical stimulation, ultrasound or laser, to reduce pain, support healing or make muscles work.
  • neuromuscular electrical stimulationThe use of electrical pulses through pads on the skin to make muscles contract, often to help strengthen weak muscles.
  • contraindicationA medical reason why a particular treatment should not be used for a patient, because it could cause harm.
  • chronicDescribes a condition or pain that has lasted a long time, usually more than three months, or that keeps coming back.

More terms: Electrotherapy and Physical Agents

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.