Using a TENS machine for migraine pain

TENS stands for “transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation”. It’s a process where you apply a mild electrical current to the skin to block pain signals, relax the muscles and stimulate the release of endorphins. For this reason, it’s a process that some people use to treat conditions which cause pain and muscle spasms.

TENS machines are used by NHS doctors and nurses, so you might be able to use one during appointments with a physiotherapist or pain specialist. You can also buy your own TENS machine to use at home from your local pharmacy or online.

A typical TENS machine is small and battery-operated, with wires that connect to sticky pads. To use the machine, you should attach the pads directly to your skin in the area of your body affected by pain. When you turn on the TENS machine, you’ll feel a tingling sensation, and hopefully a reduction in your pain and discomfort.

Most of the time, a TENS machine is used by people with musculoskeletal pain, like chronic back pain or arthritis in the knees. However, there are now TENS machines on the market specifically used to help alleviate migraine pain.