Electrotherapy Options: TENS or EMS

If you are familiar with electrotherapy you may wonder what the difference is between EMS and TENS medical devices.  EMS stands for electronic muscle stimulators.  And, TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulators.  Both are considered modes to achieve electro therapy.  Both EMS and TENS work by generating electrical impulses.  The impulses then stimulate nerves which cause the muscles controlled by those nerves to contract.  EMS machines essentially are TENS medical devices.  But, the difference is that EMS stimulate muscle motor nerves, while TENS devices stimulate sensory nerves. Learn more about EMS and TENS as medical devices for electrotherapy.

Electronic Muscle Stimulators -EMS
A proven and efficient way of treating muscle injuries is through electrical pulses transmitted by EMS devices.  The pulses cause a passive form of exercise.  Blood flow and muscle stimulation are achieved by the stimulation, contraction, and relaxation cycle created by EMS devices.  EMS has gained international recognition to treating muscle injuries.  A wave signal is delivered via dual isolated channels.  EMS is effective because it has low frequency coupled with a square wave pattern, which allows direct work on the muscle groups to occur.  Hospitals and sports clinics depend on this technology not only to treat muscle injuries.  EMS is also used to re-educate paralyzed muscles, improve muscle tone and circulation, and prevent atrophy.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulators -TENS
TENS units are an electro therapy device intended for temporary pain relief.  This is achieved by providing relief to the nerves via a dual channel use.  Adjustable intensity and asymmetrical bi-phase square wave patterns allows for a variety of treatment options.  A set of electrodes are attached on the skin of the patient's back.  An electrical signal is emitted which stimulates the neurons under the skin.  Many describe the sensation as the tingling and numbness you may feel after dental work.  So, it isn't painful.

Both EMS and TENS are great medical devices for electrotherapy.  Both electro therapy devices have similar features so that pulse width is adjustable, and there are controls for channels and intensity.  The difference lies with what needs to be treated: muscles or nerves and what is being sought: temporary pain relief or healing.  TENS provides temporary pain relief by stimulating nerves.  EMS helps with the rebuilding process because it passively exercises muscles.  Determine what your needs are when choosing an EMS or TENS electrotherapy device.