Spinal Cord Injury

A spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating event that can profoundly impact every aspect of a person's life. It's not just about the loss of mobility; it's about the complete disruption of the body's communication system. The spinal cord, a delicate bundle of nerves that runs from the brain down the back, is the superhighway for signals that control movement, sensation, and autonomic functions. When this highway is damaged, the consequences can be catastrophic.

Understanding the Injury

Spinal cord injuries are broadly classified into two categories: complete and incomplete. A complete SCI means there is a total loss of sensation and motor function below the level of the injury. In contrast, an incomplete SCI means there is some preservation of function, which can vary widely from person to person.

The level of injury-cervical, thoracic, lumbar, or sacral-determines which parts of the body are affected. A cervical injury, for example, can lead to quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs), while a lumbar injury may result in paraplegia (paralysis of the legs).

Chronic Pain

While the visible effects of SCI, such as paralysis, are well-known, the invisible burden of chronic pain is often overlooked. Up to 80% of individuals with SCI experience chronic pain, which can be even more debilitating than the loss of motor function. This pain can take many forms, from sharp, shooting sensations to a constant, burning ache.

Neuropathic pain, the most common type of pain after SCI, arises from the damaged nerves themselves. It's a complex and often misunderstood condition that can be incredibly difficult to treat. This is where innovative therapies like Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) come into play, offering a non-invasive, drug-free option for managing this challenging pain.

How does TENS Therapy help?

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a non-invasive therapy that uses low-voltage electrical currents to relieve pain. A TENS unit is a small, portable device that delivers these currents through electrodes placed on the skin. The electrical impulses work in two main ways:

Gate Control Theory: The TENS signals can "close the gate" on pain signals, preventing them from reaching the brain. This provides immediate, short-term pain relief.
Endorphin Release: TENS can also stimulate the production of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, which can provide longer-lasting pain relief.

Evidence of a TENS Machine for Spinal Cord Injuries

Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of TENS for managing neuropathic pain in individuals with SCI. A 2018 study published in the Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences found that high-frequency TENS significantly reduced pain intensity in patients with incomplete SCI over an eight-week period. Another study in 2013 showed that low-frequency TENS can effectively complement pharmacological treatments for neuropathic pain in SCI patients.

A 2022 meta-analysis further solidified the evidence, concluding that TENS has clinical therapeutic effects for people with pain after a spinal cord injury. This growing body of research provides a strong foundation for the use of TENS as a safe and effective tool for managing chronic pain in the SCI population.

Understanding SCI Pain

The pain experienced after a spinal cord injury is unlike any other type of pain. It's not simply the result of tissue damage or inflammation; it's a complex neurological phenomenon that involves multiple pathways and mechanisms. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies and for patients to better comprehend their condition.

Central neuropathic pain - is the most challenging type of pain to treat after SCI. It occurs when the spinal cord itself is damaged, leading to abnormal processing of pain signals. This can result in pain that feels like burning, electric shocks, or crushing sensations. The pain may be constant or intermittent and can occur at the level of injury or below it.

Peripheral neuropathic pain - occurs when nerve roots or peripheral nerves are damaged during the initial injury. This type of pain is often described as sharp, shooting, or stabbing and typically follows the distribution of the affected nerve.

Musculoskeletal pain - is another common type of pain experienced by individuals with SCI. This pain results from the mechanical stress placed on muscles, joints, and bones due to altered movement patterns, wheelchair use, and muscle imbalances. Unlike neuropathic pain, musculoskeletal pain often responds well to traditional pain management approaches.

Neuroplasticity Factor

One of the most fascinating aspects of SCI pain is the role of neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganise and adapt after injury. While neuroplasticity can be beneficial for recovery, it can also contribute to the development and maintenance of chronic pain. After SCI, the brain may "rewire" itself in ways that amplify pain signals or create pain sensations in the absence of actual tissue damage.

This neuroplastic reorganisation helps explain why traditional pain medications often fail to provide adequate relief for SCI pain. The pain is not simply a matter of blocking pain signals; it involves complex changes in how the nervous system processes and interprets sensory information.

Comparison - TENS Machines: Wired or Wireless?

When it comes to choosing a TENS machine, one of the biggest decisions is whether to go with a traditional wired unit or a modern wireless one. Both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice for you will depend on your individual needs and lifestyle.

Wired TENS Machines

Wired TENS units have been the standard for many years and are still a popular choice for many people. Their main advantages include:

Reliability: The direct connection between the device and the electrodes ensures a stable and consistent delivery of electrical stimulation.
Power: Wired units often offer a wider range of intensity levels and more advanced programming options.
Cost: They are typically less expensive than their wireless counterparts.

However, the wires can be cumbersome, limiting mobility and making it difficult to use the device discreetly. For individuals with SCI who may already have mobility challenges, managing the wires can be an added frustration.

Wireless TENS Machines

Wireless TENS units are a more recent innovation that offers a new level of convenience and freedom. Their key benefits include:

Portability: wireless TENS unit while on the go, whether you're at work, at home, or even during light exercise.
Discretion:
Ease of Use:

While wireless units may have a higher initial cost and require regular charging, the convenience and freedom they offer can be the real difference for many individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Options we have available

We're the leading provider of TENS and EMS devices, offering a range of innovative solutions to help you manage your pain and improve your quality of life. Their products are designed with the user in mind, combining advanced technology with user-friendly features.

The Combo 3 - TENS, EMS and Massage all in One

The Combo 3 is a versatile, multi-therapy device that offers the ultimate in pain management and rehabilitation. Its wireless design and independent channel control make it an ideal choice for individuals with SCI:

Freedom: The wireless pods allow you to move freely during treatment, without the hassle of tangled wires.
Independent Control: You can use different therapies on different parts of the body simultaneously, allowing you to customise your treatment to your specific needs.
Multi Therapy: The Combo 3 combines TENS for pain relief, EMS for muscle strengthening, and massage for relaxation, providing a comprehensive approach to pain management.

Wireless 2 Channel TENS & EMS Machine

The Wireless 2-Channel TENS Machine is a powerful and easy-to-use device that is perfect for targeted pain relief. Its key features include:

NHS Trusted Programme: The device is pre-programmed with the NHS trusted programme 1, which is known for it's reliable pain-block capabilities.
Wireless and Portable: The wireless design allows for convenient use at home or on the go.
CE Marked Medical Device: The Wireless 2-Channel TENS Machine is a CE marked medical device, ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality.

Can TENS help after Spinal Cord Injury